We are embarking on a new partnership with clothing company, Rab, to create hydrophobic down. The waterproof down will be used in Rab clothes and sleeping bags from this Winter, it was announced today.
Talking at ISPO, Rab CEO, Matt Gowar said, “There are many treatments on the market, but when we wanted to develop fluorocarbon free, hydrophobic down, there was only one real choice : Nikwax. The Nikwax technology will ensure all the down in our garments and sleeping bags will not only be as environmentally safe as possible , but waterproof too. We have been working with Nikwax over several months to optimise the process, to produce a great product.”
Nikwax founder, Nick Brown said, “We are proud that Rab have chosen Nikwax, not only for our exceptional technology but also our environmental credentials. Nikwax is proof that fluorocarbon free products can outperform other waterproofing products. There is no reason why brands should be not using fluorocarbon free alternatives.”
Treatment with Nikwax waterproofing will greatly improve the performance of down in damp conditions as the down will absorb less water and dry more quickly than untreated down. The treatment won’t add weight or reduce the loft.
The treatment will also be used in Rab’s sister company Lowe Alpine. Rab will recommend Nikwax Down Wash and Nikwax Down Proof as the only solution to care for all Rab down items.