Waterproof cycling clothing is often a big investment for most riders, and looking after it properly is essential to keep with working at its best.
Over-washing waterproof gear can reduce its performance, so how do you look after it without losing its waterproofing ability?
Fabrics such as Gore-Tex and eVent are complex. They have a breathable waterproof membrane which lets vapour through, but not liquid, plus a hardwearing outer fabric for protection.
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This outer layer treated with a Durable Water Resistant (DWR) coating. This makes water bead on the surface and stops it soaking in, but the DWR coating wears (or washes) off over time, leading to 'wetting-out' and stopping the vapour (your humid sweat) from passing through the fabric.
A waterproof jacket's Durable Water Resistant (DWR) coating can wear out over time, which means the fabric will eventually 'wet out'
10 tips for successful re-waterproofing
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