Alternatives to Camp Dry?

[Buck91]

Been using Camp Dry 13% Silicone spray for many years on various tents, jackets and footwear (non-leather) and it has always...worked. The one thing I have noticed is that, especially for footwear, it does not last very long. Whether is washes out or gets abraded away I do not know- only that it does not last well. On other outter wear, such as waterproof shells (nylon/goretex type stuff) it takes quite a lot of the product to really coat the garment as well. It works pretty well, if you do this at least one a year, but I've found it takes the better part of a can to do one jacket.

Has anybody experience with alternatives to Camp Dry silicone spray? Obviously, the objective is something that lasts longer, breathes better, offer more water repellancy and requires less product... The priorities being the water repellancy and the long lasting.

I've seen a product called Nikwax, but haven't been able to fin much real info on it. Perhaps that is worth a try? :thinking:

 

[Tekno_Cowboy]

I use Bick's for my high-dollar Tony Lama's and Noccona Elephant boots. It breathes very well, and provides some protection against the elements.

The last things you want to use on boots and shoes (at least ones you wear all the time) are silicone or mink oil. They seal the leather a little too well, and don't allow the material to breathe.

 

[Burgess]

Hmmm . . . .


Thank you, Tekno.


Did not know that.


:twothumbs

:thanks:

_

 

[monkeyboy]

I always use Nikwax products on my Goretex, eVent and Paramo waterproof clothing. When machine washing, I use "tech wash" instead of regular detergent as this does not strip away the existing waterproofing. After about every 2-3 washes, I follow up with "TX direct" wash-in waterproofing. I find this to be much more effective than spray on. If you use TX direct every wash a noticeable waxy layer builds up on the fabric which can restrict breathability, so I think it's best to do this only every 2 or 3 washes or if you notice the water repellency starting to fade. I wouldn't say that it lasts longer than the silicon waterproofing spray but I do find that it's much more effective in that it continues to repel water even if the fabric is wet.

The only drawback to maintaining with Nikwax is that it works out to be quite expensive so I only use this on my best waterproofs.

I find that cycling jackets need washing nearly every use so I don't bother with Nikwax as it would be too expensive.

I've seen Nikwax products available in most outdoor stores in the UK and Canada too, so if you can't find it anywhere in the US you could try mail order from mec.ca