Nikwax Develops New Product to Lighten the Load

[April 1, 2021, Seattle, WA]—Nikwax, a leader in developing innovative technologies for outdoorists, from high performance PFC-Free aftercare to a hydrophobic down fill that withstands a 10,000 minute shake test, announced today a new aftercare product.

“We are so pleased to share our newest product, HE³. Direct,” said Heidi Allen, VP of Marketing for Nikwax North America, “We have finally unlocked the ability to go fast and light with a simple spray-on product.”

NEW Nikwax HE³. Direct reduces the weight of outdoor gear by up to 30%. The revolutionary technology uses Nikwax patented helium-infused polymers to coat each fiber, reducing the weight of outdoor gear, no matter the material. Like all Nikwax products, HE³.Direct is PFC-free, biodegradable, water-based, and aerosol-free. It will also be produced in bottles made from 100% recycled and recyclable plastic.

 “We listened to the feedback from all types of outdoor adventurers to help develop the correct amount of weight reduction,” says Nikwax Head of Product, Tim Pickering. “The polymer had to adhere to many different substrates, which posed quite the challenge. But in the end, we found a miracle, really, and bottled it. We also found that the weight reduction had the included benefit of reducing some abrasion between fibers and components, so it’s likely HE³.Direct will help extend the life of outdoor gear, keeping in line with the rest of our products.”

 There was much beta testing on this new product to make sure it helped improve the outdoor experience without totally negating any effort or causing any unintended consequences. Said one product tester:

 “I love using Nikwax HE³.Direct on my tandem kayak and other inflatables to keep them floating like new, while being easier to carry from the car to the lake or beach. This solution easily takes off 15-20 pounds when applied evenly and left to dry. I tried another brand’s helium treatment but it was difficult to apply and too overpowering. My kayak flew away into the wind like a lost balloon, never to be seen again. Nikwax has the perfect blend to make your gear lighter, without letting it fly away.”

Nikwax expects HE³. Direct to be available to retailers and customers soon. If you are interested in assorting this new, revolutionary product, please contact aprilfools@nikwax.com.

About Nikwax
Nikwax was founded in 1977 by Nick Brown, an avid hiker and traveler, who designed his own waterproofing wax to keep his leather hiking boots dry. Today, Nikwax is the trusted global leader in environmentally safe aftercare solutions. Nikwax products extend the performance life of technical clothing, footwear and equipment. Nikwax’s 40+ year commitment to clean chemistry means not using PFCs or aerosols, and not testing on animals. The carbon balanced company’s product line is water-based and biodegradable. All product bottles are made from 100% recycled plastic that can also be recycled. Nikwax North America is a subsidiary of Nikwax Ltd, a UK company. For media inquiries and more information, please contact Kate Ketschek at Revolution House Media, kate@revolutionhousemedia.com.