The weather has gone completely mad and protective clothing needs to adapt: Nikwax brings new, “Nikwax Fleece & Windproof system” two-part, PFC treatment free waterproof clothing technology to adapt to abrupt climate change
Recent years have seen highly variable weather in the UK: the 2012 drought and the greatest downpour in 250 years accompanied by widespread flooding over last winter [2013/2014]. What does this mean? The seasons are now much less predictable than they were and changes are coming fast.
For outdoor wear this means versatility and the ability for our gear to change with the weather. Enter, the Nikwax Fleece & Windproof system, a dual water-resistant fabric system that provides the absolute optimum flexibility and versatility.
Nikwax Fleece fabrics, on their own, offer protection against mist and humidity, whilst remaining cool because of their high air permeability and exceptional breathability. So the fleece will work, depending upon your activity level, and wind levels, at a temperature range below zero to + 15 degrees C.
Nikwax Windproof Fabrics will cut out a gale force wind, and can be used on their own with a base layer to protect against summer showers and squalls. The temperature range is zero to 25 degrees C.
The Nikwax Fleece & Windproof combination gives full waterproof protection for up to five hours of heavy rainfall (rain room tested) and extends the temperature range of the combination to -10 to +15 degrees C.
All of this is achieved with a pair of jackets that together weigh less than a kilo. Added benefits of the system are that it’s PFC treatment free, made from 100 percent polyester and is therefore recyclable, and its waterproofing can be restored indefinitely in the washing machine by using a Nikwax care product.
With the weather becoming increasingly unpredictable, there’s a need for maximum protection for minimum weight. Nick Brown, CEO of Nikwax said, “The Nikwax Fleece & Windproof combination will take you through the broadest range of weather challenges. I have used it in both the Himalayas and the Andes, where climbing 2,000 metres can change the ambient temperature from 25 to zero degrees, in one day. However, I also use it for low level walks in spring and autumn, when I know that the weather is going to be unpredictable and I want to be able to stay cool, yet have real weather protection when I need it.” He adds “By combining the practical versatility with the extreme durability of the system, and the ability to recycle it, I think we have something that is entirely appropriate to modern outdoor challenges.”
The Nikwax Fleece & Windproof system is currently available through the Páramo brand (www.paramo-clothing.com). Nikwax hopes that as the concept becomes more accepted, it will be adopted by other outdoor companies.