Fleece fabrics are used to provide lightweight, insulating mid layers and additionally hats and gloves to keep you warm. Fleece fabrics are made from synthetic fibres. The construction of the fabric allows air to be trapped between the fibres and warmed by body heat to provide insulation for the user.
Although the individual fibres of fleece cannot absorb water, it is possible for water to become trapped in the spaces between the fibres. The accumulation of water reduces the insulating properties of fleece and also causes weight gain; fleece can hold up to 50% of its weight in water!
This reduces the comfort of the user causing them to feel wet and cold, but more importantly the reduction in insulation is dangerous and in severe cases can lead to hypothermia.
Anyone who is active outside will benefit from wearing fleece. Either being used as a mid layer or an outer garment, the insulating properties of fleece will improve user comfort. So, if you are a mountaineer or dog walker or you work outside as a farmer or surveyor, insulating clothing will help to keep you warm.
Your fleece garment could be soaking up water just because it is dirty. First, try cleaning it with Nikwax Tech Wash®, and if it is fairly new, or recently re-waterproofed, the Durable Water Repellency (DWR) will be revitalised just from cleaning. But once the garment has been thoroughly worn, you will need to add DWR using Nikwax Polar Proof®, after cleaning first with Nikwax Tech Wash®.
Nikwax Polar Proof® is a safe product to use on fleece garments. It is WaterBased, non-flammable, contains no harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and is fluorocarbon free. Nikwax Polar Proof® has been specifically designed and optimised for fleece garments, providing Durable Water Repellency (DWR) whilst maintaining breathability. Nikwax Polar Proof® requires no heat to develop its DWR, so it is not necessary to use a tumble drier for best results.
Using the right cleaning product is as important as using the right waterproofing product. Conventional detergents leave behind a thin water-absorbent film on materials, which masks their water repellency. Therefore, always clean your waterproof garments with Nikwax Tech Wash®. Remember that dirt itself works against water repellency, so regular cleaning will enhance performance.
Nikwax Polar Proof® has been specifically designed and optimised for fleece garments; it leaves a flexible water repellent treatment on individual fibres allowing moisture vapour to pass through, maintaining breathability and optimising performance in wet weather. Additionally, it inhibits pilling of fleece fabrics, prolonging the life of gear.
Nikwax Polar Proof® is easy and quick to apply in a washing machine and ensures that the treatment goes right through the garment. The highly Durable Water Repellency (DWR) of Nikwax Polar Proof® develops on air drying. Therefore the need for tumble drying is removed, saving energy.
Ideal for
- Fleece jackets, trousers, gloves and hats
- Fibre pile items worn next to the skin
- Wool sweaters, gloves and hats
- Insulated synthetic clothing
Always apply this product to new or used clothing to keep items in perfect water-repellent condition. Remember to clean wash gear first with Nikwax Tech Wash before applying Nikwax Polar Proof (you don't have to wait for items to dry between cleaning and proofing).
