

"What Our Gearhead® Experts Are Saying: ""I use SoftShell Proof any time my go-to hiking or climbing softshell starts wetting out. It’s incredibly simple to run through a normal wash cycle, and the difference in performance is obvious—water beads again, breathability improves, and the fabric feels way less saturated during hard efforts.""We reach for Nikwax SoftShell Proof Wash-In when our trusted softshell layers start soaking up moisture instead of shedding it. Softshell fabrics shine in mixed conditions because they balance weather protection, stretch, and breathability—but they depend on an intact water-repellent finish to maintain that performance. SoftShell Proof revitalizes that barrier and restores the airflow that makes these layers such versatile companions in the mountains. The wash-in formula penetrates deep through the garment’s fibers to evenly renew durable water repellency without stiffening the fabric or limiting movement. It revives breathability by preventing saturation and reduces the chilling effect caused when outer fabrics hold moisture. The result is a softshell that performs better during high-output hikes, windy ridge scrambles, and damp shoulder-season missions where staying warm and dry makes all the difference."
Price: $15.70 from Backcountry
| Merchant | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| $15.70 | Visit Store |
"What Our Gearhead® Experts Are Saying: ""I use the spray-on version when I need pinpoint waterproofing—especially on high-wear areas like shoulders, elbows, and pack zones. It revives water beading without messing with the fabric’s stretch or feel,...
"What Our Gearhead® Experts Are Saying: ""I use Cotton Proof on canvas jackets, old anoraks, and even a few cotton packs—it brings them back to life. Once treated, they stop soaking up moisture, feel lighter in wet weather, and stay far more breathable....
"What Our Gearhead® Experts Are Saying: ""I’ve trusted Down Wash for years to bring flattened, dirty down jackets back to life. A single wash lifts oils and grime without damaging the loft, and the gear dries fluffier than when it went in. I also like...