Nikwax Provides High-Performance, PFAS-free Industrial Solutions for Award-Winning Outerwear

December 10, 2024

Nikwax Hydrophobic Down, Direct.Dry featured in four ISPO award-winning garments.

Seattle, WA, Dec. 10, 2024 /OUTDOOR SPORTSWIRE/ — At the ISPO Munich tradeshow Dec 3-5, Nikwax’s PFAS-free industrial solutions were highlighted with Outdoor Research, Mammut, and BLACKYAK all winning the prestigious ISPO Design Award for products incorporating Nikwax’s high-performing technologies.

Outdoor Research’s Foray and Aspire 3L jackets, the industry’s first technical outdoor apparel to be certified carbon-neutral, prioritize recycled materials and PFAS-free, high-performing waterproofing with Nikwax’s Direct.Dry factory-applied DWR.

“Nikwax Direct.Dry enabled us to offer our customers a genuine alternative to conventional DWR treatments, providing them with a high-performing solution that aligns with the growing demand for environmentally responsible products,” said Alex Lauver, Senior Director of Materials Innovations and Sustainability.

Nikwax’s Direct.Dry achieves 95-100, the highest rating possible on the AATCC22 Spray Rating Test. Direct.Dry provides a factory applied industrial DWR solution that withstands the demands of outdoor consumers while eliminating persistent PFAS. And with a high wash durability, Direct.Dry’s rating stays at 100 after five washes, 80 after 20 washes, and will return to 100 after being treated with Nikwax technical washes and waterproofers.

Mammut’s Eiger Nordwand Pro Down IN Hooded Parka, and BLACKYAK’s Watusi Hooded Expedition Down Jacket and Watusi G2 Expedition Suit also won ISPO awards. The items feature Nikwax Hydrophobic Down (NHD), the high-performing, industry-leading PFAS-free waterproof down fill.

“We have been perfecting PFAS-free waterproofing solutions for over four decades,” said Brian Davidson, CEO of Nikwax. “We are very pleased to be able to apply that expertise to industrial solutions to help our partners make the transition away from PFAS in their manufacturing process.”

For 47 years, Nikwax has offered both brands and consumers a full range of aftercare solutions that are easy to use, PFAS-free, and durable. Now, Nikwax is offering factory applied solutions that are complimented by well-known consumer cleaning and waterproofing products that help extend the life and performance of outdoor gear. Brands interested in exploring how they too can utilize Nikwax industrial solutions to comply with regulations can contact Brian Davidson at Brian.Davidson@nikwax.com.

About Nikwax

Founded in 1977, Nikwax is the trusted global leader in environmentally safe cleaning and waterproofing solutions that extend the performance life of outdoor clothing, footwear, and equipment. The brand also supplies top-performing PFAS-free DWR and hydrophobic down applications for outdoor brands. Nikwax’s 47-year commitment to clean chemistry means never using PFAS or aerosols, and not testing on animals. Its product line is water-based and non-persistent, and all product bottles and lids are made from 100% post-consumer recycled plastic that can also be recycled. Nikwax has carbon balanced all 47 years of its operations and became an employee-owned trust in 2022. For media inquiries and more information, please contact Kate Ketschek at Revolution House Media, kate@revolutionhousemedia.com.