Nikwax Develops Factory-Applied DWR For Synthetic Outdoor Fabrics

Nikwax has reported that it has developed a “high-performance, PFAS-free factory-applied Durable Water Repellent (DWR) for synthetic outdoor fabrics.”

Outdoor Research, Nikwax’s global launch partner, will showcase Direct.Dry on its series for Fall 2024.

“Nikwax Direct.Dry enables us to offer our customers a genuine alternative to conventional DWR treatments, providing them with a high-performing solution that aligns with the growing demand for environmentally responsible products,” said Alex Lauver, senior director of Materials Innovations and Sustainability at Outdoor Research. “Innovation fuels Outdoor Research’s product development, and our collaboration with Nikwax marks an industry breakthrough for PFAS-free outerwear and apparel.”

With California and New York mandating the elimination of PFAS in consumer goods by 2025, factory-applied industrial DWR “withstand[s] the demands of outdoor consumers while eliminating persistent PFAS.” Direct.Dry “achieves 100, the highest possible AATCC 22 Spray Rating Test rating.” With high wash durability, Direct. Dry’s rating “stays at 100 after five washes, 80 after 20 washes and will return to 100 after being treated with Nikwax technical washes and waterproofers,” said Nikwax.

“We have been perfecting PFAS-free waterproofing solutions for over four decades,” said Brian Davidson, president of Nikwax North America. “We are very pleased to be able to apply that expertise to an industrial DWR to help our partners transition away from PFAS in their manufacturing process.”