Gear is an important part of any outdoor enthusiast’s life. Keeping that gear in good condition is essential to enjoying the outdoors and ensuring your safety. In this article, we’ll take a look at one particular product designed to help you protect your gear: Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof. We’ll answer some common questions about the product and review its performance. Whether you’re a backpacker, camper, or hiker, read on for information that will help you keep your equipment in top condition!
Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof
Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof comes in a bottle with a pump sprayer for easy application. As to how to apply it, we will discuss in more detail in the section below!Nikwax Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof User Manual
What is Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof
Most tents these days come with some kind of waterproofing treatment applied to the fabric. However, this treatment will eventually wear off over time. When it does, your tent will be much more susceptible to water damage.
Waterproofing your tent is important because it will help to extend the life of your tent and keep you dry during rainy weather. Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof is one product that can be used for this purpose.
Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof is a waterproofing product that can be used on tents, tarps, rain gear, backpacks, and other outdoor gear. Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof helps to keep your gear dry by repelling water and creating a barrier against moisture. The product can also help to restore water repellency to older gear that has become stained or wet. [1]
How Does Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof Work?
Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof is made of TX.10i, a waterproofing agent that bonds to the fabrics of your gear. This makes it different from other waterproofing products that simply coat gear with a water-repellent layer.
The treatment is effective on all kinds of synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon. Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof can be used on tents, backpacks, sleeping bags, clothing, and more. This waterproofing product does not change the feel or breathability of the fabric, making it ideal for use on tents, sleeping bags, and other outdoor gear.
One important thing to note is that Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof is not for use on leather or suede. For those materials, you’ll need to use Nikwax’s Leather Waterproofing Wax instead. In a similar way, for equipment made of cotton fabrics, you would want to use Nikwax’s Cotton Proof. [2]
How to Apply Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof
Clean your equipment inside and out
Any dirt, grime, or mildew will reduce the effectiveness of the waterproofing spray. Nikwax makes a great product called Tech Wash that is specifically designed for cleaning outdoor gear.
You can also use mild soap and water to hand wash your gear. Just be sure to rinse it well afterwards so that no soap residue is left behind.
Erect your gear
You actually don’t need to dry your gear before waterproofing your tent, simply erect your gear. This will help you to get better coverage and avoid missing any spots.
If you’re waterproofing a tent, set it up according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you’re treating a tarp, rain fly, or groundsheet, simply lay it out flat. For clothing and sleeping bags, put them on hangers or spread them out on a flat surface. Backpacks can be hung from a shower rod or laid out flat similar to the sheets.
Just don’t forget to prepare the area you’ll be working in by laying down a protective tarp to catch any overspray. To protect yourself, be sure to wear gloves and a mask while you’re applying the waterproofing spray. It’s best to perform the treatment either outside or in a well-ventilated area.
Now that your gear is clean and prepped, it’s time to apply Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof. Be sure to shake the can well before you start spraying. Dispense some detergent on the outside of the fabric and spread it around evenly with your gloved hand, soft brush or a sponge. When waterproofing a large item, start with a small area and work in sections so that the entire surface is evenly coated.
If you’re waterproofing a backpack, be sure to avoid the straps. The waterproofing spray can make them stiff and uncomfortable.
After you’ve evenly coated your gear with Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof, it’s time to let it soak for at least two minutes. This allows the product to fully penetrate the fabric for maximum waterproofing.
Double check if everything is coated
After a few minutes have passed, take a close look at your gear to be sure that everything is evenly coated.
Remove the excesses with a damp cloth
Once you’re satisfied that your gear is evenly covered, use a damp cloth to remove any excess Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof. If you fail to do this, the residue will leave stains on your gear.
After you’ve removed the excess waterproofing spray, let your gear air dry once again. When it’s completely dry, you can pack it away for storage or use it on your next adventure.
Nikwax recommends that if you want to maintain the highest level of waterproofing, you should wash your equipment with Nikwax Tech Wash and treat it with Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof every six washes.
Test the agent on a hidden area prior to full application
It’s always a good idea to test the waterproofing spray on a small, hidden area of the gear before you treat the entire item. This will help you to see how the fabric reacts to the spray and avoid any unwanted surprises.
To do a patch test, simply apply Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof to a small area of the fabric as per instruction. Wait for it to dry completely, then check for any color changes, staining, or other damage. If everything looks good, you can proceed with treating the rest of your gear. [3]
Features of Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof
Now it’s time for the review portion of this guide. Here we will discuss the features of Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof and how they benefit the user.
It’s easy to apply
First thing you’ll notice about the Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof is that it’s very easy to apply. All you need is a sponge or brush, and you’re good to go.
You can also safely apply it on wet fabric right after washing it. This is a great time saver because you don’t have to wait for your gear to dry before starting the process. Simply clean your gear, apply Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof, and allow it to air dry. The treated gear will dry far more quickly than before applying the product!
Waterproofs your gear
One of the main features of Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof is that it waterproofs your gear without damaging it. This is thanks to the fact that Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof is water based, not solvent based like many other waterproofing products on the market.
This means that Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof will not degrade the fabric of your gear over time like some other products can. Additionally, Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof are safe to use on all types of fabrics including Gore-Tex, eVent, and neoprene.
If you’re conscious about the planet, don’t worry as Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof is environmentally friendly. This is because the product is water based, not solvent based. Solvent based products can be harmful to the environment if they’re not disposed of properly.
PFCs are a type of chemical that has been shown to be harmful to the environment.
Protects from UV rays
One of other important features of Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof is that it protects your gear from UV rays, which is crucial because UV rays can cause it to deteriorate over time. This is a great feature for those who spend a lot of time outdoors, as their gear will be exposed to more sunlight than the average person.
This is thanks to the fact that Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof contain UV inhibitors. These UV inhibitors help to prevent your gear from fading in sunlight. Additionally, they help to extend the life of your gear by protecting it from the sun’s harmful rays.
This damage can lead to premature aging, fading, and even holes in your gear. By using Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof, you can extend the life of your gear by protecting it from UV damage.
Such a protection from elements also strengthens the gear’s fabric, making it less susceptible to tearing and ripping. [4]
What to Keep in Mind Before Buying
Although Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof have many advantages, there are a few things to keep in mind before you purchase them. We will cover each of them in detail.
It comes in small capacity so requires multiple applications
One of the biggest disadvantages of Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof is that it comes in a small capacity. If you have a particularly large tent or piece of gear, you may find that Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof doesn’t cover the entire surface. Because of this, you will likely need to purchase multiple bottles. This is also the case if you need to waterproof a lot of equipment. All this will obviously cost more money in the long run, but it’s worth it if you need to waterproof a large amount of gear.
Another thing to keep in mind is that Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof must be reapplied every six washes or so. This means that you will need to purchase more bottles over time as well.
It may not be as water resistant as some other agents
Although Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof is water resistant, it may not be as water resistant as some other products on the market.
This is because Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof is only water repellent, not waterproof. Water repellent means that it will cause water to bead up on the surface of your gear, but it may not necessarily keep your gear dry throughout the season. However it will still provide some level of protection in such conditions and adds a much needed UV protection.
It has a messy dispenser
Another disadvantage of Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof is that the dispenser is messy. This means that you will likely get Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof on your hands and clothes when you use it. To avoid this, we recommend wearing gloves and old clothes when applying Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof to your gear.
Because of this, you may have trouble applying the product exactly where you want it. The waterproofing agent may drip or run when you’re trying to apply it, which can be frustrating, especially if you’re trying to waterproof a small area, such as the seams of your tent.
May leave an unpleasant odor afterwards
Finally, another disadvantage of Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof is that it may leave an unpleasant odor afterwards. This odor is not strong and isn’t harmful, but it can be bothersome to some people. The good news is that the smell will dissipate over time. However, if you’re sensitive to smells, it might be troublesome at first.[1] ,[4]
FAQ
Is Nikwax any good for tents?
Yes! Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof is an excellent waterproofing product that can help keep your tent in good condition. Not only will it protect your tent from soaking rain, but it will also help to keep it protected from the harmful UV rays.
How long does it take for nikwax to dry?
This entirely depends on the temperature, humidity and the size of the object being treated. Generally, it will take a few hours before you can use Nikwax treated items.
To speed up the process, leave your equipment to dry in a well ventilated area, or outside, if the temperature is warm enough.
Can you use Nikwax Tech Wash on a tent?
Yes – Nikwax Tech Wash is a safe, effective cleaner for all types of outdoor gear, including tents. It will remove dirt, grime, and mildew from your tent fabric without damaging the waterproof coating. What’s more, Nikwax Tech Wash will even prolong the effects of waterproofing treatments like Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof.
Related Video: Nikwax Solar Wash & Solar Proof Tent Care | Review
Conclusion
All in all, Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof is a good product that will protect your gear from elements while also strengthening the fabric. This easy-to-apply waterproofing treatment offers effective protection against water and UV rays, helping to prolong the life of your gear. Plus, it’s eco-friendly and safe for use on all types of synthetic fabric, so you can feel good about using it on your favorite gear.
Although a single bottle might not be enough for larger tents, this product will do an effective job of keeping your gear dry. The dispenser can be a bit messy to apply, so be sure to cover the area before applying the agent. Still, whether you’re headed out for a weekend camping trip or a longer expedition, be sure to pack Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof to keep your gear in top condition.
References:
- https://www.nikwax.com/en-us/products/tent-and-gear-solarproof/
- https://outdoorsmagic.com/article/toughest-outdoor-watches-2022/
- http://www.heason.net/reviews/2015/09/29/Nikwax_Tent__Gear_Solarproof/
- https://www.rei.com/product/850168/nikwax-tent-and-gear-solarproof-waterproofing-spray