Nikwax, the international leader in technical cleaners and waterproofing products for outdoor gear and apparel, 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 unveil Direct.Dry on its series for Fall 2024.
Courtesy of Nikwax
“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,” says 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 key states like California and New York mandating the elimination of PFAS in consumer goods by 2025, many brands are looking for a factory applied industrial DWR that can withstand the demands of outdoor consumers while eliminating persistent PFAS. Direct.Dry achieves 100, the highest possible rating on the AATCC 22 Spray Rating Test. With a 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.
“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 make the transition away from PFAS in their manufacturing process.”
Sustainability and circularity are top-of-mind for many outdoor consumers and brands as recent legislation has accelerated the industry’s quest for PFAS-free solutions. In addition to seeking alternatives to harmful PFAS chemicals, brands are simultaneously looking for ways to maintain high performance while helping the gear last longer. For 46 years, Nikwax has offered brands and consumers a full range of aftercare solutions that are easy to use, PFAS-free, and durable. Now, Nikwax is offering a factory applied DWR that is complimented by a well-known consumer brand. Brands interested in exploring how they too can utilize Direct.Dry to comply with upcoming regulations can contact Brian Davidson at Brian.Davidson@nikwax.com.
For over 45 years, Nikwax has been the trusted global leader in environmentally safe cleaning and waterproofing solutions that extend the performance life of outdoor clothing, footwear, and equipment. Since 1977, the brand has been committed to clean chemistry, never using PFAS or aerosols, and not testing on animals. Its product line is water-based and non-persistent, and all product bottles and caps are made from 100% post-consumer recycled plastic that can also be recycled. Nikwax has carbon balanced all 45+ years of its operations and became an employee-owned trust in 2022.
