For the last seven decades, The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) has transformed the lives of millions of young people – teaching vital life skills and giving them the chance to take part in outdoor expeditions and exciting volunteering opportunities.
Nikwax has been working with the DofE for seven years. A relationship that’s set to continue into the future.
Nikwax products feature on the DofE Expedition Kit List, and all of the products have been tried and tested to ensure they are suitable for DofE expeditions and offer value for money. We recommend using Nikwax products as they offer additional protection and prolong the life of expedition kit for DofE Leaders and participants, making expeditions more affordable and enjoyable for everyone.
“Before any expedition it is important to make sure your kit is clean and serviced” says Oliver Dibbens, Operations Officer with the DofE. “Expeditions can be particularly tough on waterproof jackets due to the abrasion caused by a rucksack’s hip belt and harness, so using a spray on these areas to ‘top up’ protection before the expedition can really help. This can also be done to the knees of waterproof trousers. Don’t forget to re-proof your tent and especially the ground sheet, as not only will this help keep you dryer – it also means not having to pack away a sodden tent every morning. Remember, even if it has not been raining there will be morning dew about!”
“And it’s good to get into a habit of re-proofing your equipment, as it gives you the opportunity to inspect for tears and other damage that you might have missed when you put the kit away last time. Expedition kit can be expensive and re-proofing will extend the life of the garments and equipment” says Dibbins.
“Nikwax is incredibly proud to be associated with this charity” says Nikwax Founder, Nick Brown. “To be a part of something whose ethos is to encourage young people into the great outdoors and introduce them to its challenges and opportunities whilst developing outdoor skills is to be admired.
“We are particularly pleased to know that Nikwax is helping thousands of young people to keep themselves and their kit comfortable and protected each year whilst on their DofE expedition. No matter what the weather throws at them.”
The DofE recommends the Craghoppers Horizon Jacket and Ascent Overtrousers, and the following five Nikwax products:
