The key role of water-repellent impregnations in tourism: Why they are necessary

Waterproofness is one of the most important characteristics of quality hiking equipment. During active travels, there is nowhere to hide from another downpour or sudden blizzard, and of course, no one wants to get wet. Special water-repellent impregnation for clothing can give the material water-repellent properties and you additional comfort.

In this article, we will talk about fabric impregnation against water: what it is, how it works, and how to choose.

Waterproof properties

Let's understand what water repellency is and what determines the ability of a fabric to get wet. Water collects in a drop due to the mutual attraction of molecules. Water molecules are attracted not only to each other, but also to other materials. If the attraction between water molecules is stronger than to the fabric, the drop lies on the surface and does not wet the material. But if the attraction of the material is stronger, the fabric will get wet.

Most materials are created by weaving, and therefore have many air cavities that instantly absorb water. Water-repellent impregnation treatment gives the material properties that are not inherent to it, reducing its ability to get wet. Impregnation for the fabric creates a film of a substance on its surface that almost does not attract water molecules.

Types of water-repellent impregnation

Impregnation for fabrics can be conditionally divided into the following types:

• for the membrane;
• for waterproof and breathable fabrics without a membrane;
• for materials where breathability is not important;
• for materials with insulation;
• for shoes.

Shoes are often treated with hydrophobic impregnation. Shoe products come in both universal and specialized versions for leather, suede, or textiles.

Water repellent for shoes

Hydrophobic impregnation: what is it and how to use it for things with a membrane?

Impregnation of fabric with a membrane may surprise you. After all, this technology is specially designed with waterproof properties. The membrane well retains water droplets on the surface and allows steam to evaporate. But such clothing is like a sandwich, consisting of a lining, membrane and fabric on the outside. The impregnation of the fabric from moisture is needed not by the membrane itself, but by the outer layer.

If the fabric gets wet, water will not penetrate through the membrane to the body, but a number of characteristics will deteriorate. Water will fill the entire air layer and steam will not be able to evaporate. This will significantly impair the breathable properties of the clothing and the item will begin to steam. The clothing will become significantly heavier and the thermal insulation properties will deteriorate.

Equipment care

To ensure that your equipment serves you for a long time and reliably, it is imperative to regularly renew the protective layer. Impregnation for fabric from dirt helps preserve the appearance of clothing or shoes.

The effect of polyurethane impregnation on the fabric is destroyed by friction, exposure to sunlight and washing. Pay attention to the durability specified by the manufacturer. To maintain the properties, we recommend washing exclusively with special products for the membrane.

Rainproofing fabric is a must-have in the arsenal of every hiker who wants to preserve the properties of their equipment, extend its service life, and enjoy nature, regardless of weather conditions.