Shell gear
Care and repair
How to care for your waterproof gear
Our durably waterproof gear is engineered for long-term performance, but it still requires proper care to maintain its protective qualities. Below, you’ll find the essential care and repair guidance for waterproof garments, including how to wash, reproof, patch damage, and replace zipper components.
A note on PFAS-free waterproof gear
Our FW25 shell collection — and all future collections — is free from intentionally added PFAS (per- and polyfluorinated substances), which are associated with environmental and health concerns.
Shells constructed with PFAS-free membranes or PFAS-free DWR still deliver full protection in rain, wind, and snow. However, because PFAS-free DWR is less durable and less resistant to oil and water, it requires more frequent maintenance to sustain water-repellent performance. Expect to wash and reactivate your PFAS-free shell more often, and reapply DWR when needed.
Cleaning your waterproof gear
Dirt, oils, sweat, smoke, and general trail grime degrade waterproof membranes and durable water-repellent (DWR) finishes, even when not visibly obvious. Wash your waterproof gear at least once a year, and any time it is visibly dirty or begins to smell.
How to wash
Step 1: Prepare the product
Manually remove loose dirt with a dry cloth. Empty pockets, close all zippers, and secure any flaps or straps before placing the garment in the washing machine. Avoid washing with heavily soiled items.
Step 2: Add detergent
Add a small amount of liquid detergent — ideally one formulated for technical outdoor fabrics — and follow the dosing instructions. Do not use powder detergent, fabric softener, stain removers, or bleach.
Step 3: Wash
Unless otherwise specified on the care label, wash at 40°C on a gentle cycle with low agitation and a slow spin. Select an extra rinse, then start the cycle.
How to dry
Step 1: Tumble dry
Tumble dry on warm/medium heat using a gentle cycle. After the garment is dry, continue tumbling for an additional 20 minutes to reactivate the DWR.
Step 2: Reactivate DRW
If the washing instructions won’t allow tumble drying, line-dry instead. Once dry, use a warm iron on low heat with a towel placed between the iron and the garment — avoid steam.
Unable to tumble-dry?
Line-dry the garment instead. Once dry, use a clothing iron to iron it on low temperature, placing a towel between the iron and the garment. Do not use steam.
Reproofing your waterproof gear
DWR finishes gradually lose effectiveness, even after heat reactivation. Signs include reduced breathability, surface wet-out, or a clammy feeling that may mimic leakage. When this occurs, it’s time to reproof.
What’s DWR?
Durable Water Repellent (DWR) is a finish applied to the outer fabric, causing water to bead and roll off instead of being absorbed—improving comfort and helping the membrane function efficiently.
Not sure if it’s time to reproof your waterproof gear?
If it's been a while since your last outing, it's wise to check the waterproofing of your gear before embarking on your next adventure following these steps:
Step 1: Lay it out
Lay your garment flat on a smooth surface.
Step 2: Spray it
Mist lightly with water using a spray bottle.
Step 3: Check
If water beads and runs off, the DWR is still working.
Step 4: Reactivate
If water begins to soak in, reactivate or reapply DWR.
How to reproof your products
Step 1: Wash the product
Wash the garment following the instructions above.
Step 2: Wash again
Before tumble drying, run a second wash cycle — this time adding a waterproofing product according to the product’s instructions.
Step 3: Tumble dry
Tumble dry using a warm/medium heat, gentle cycle.
Step 4: Tumble again
Once the garment is dry, tumble for an additional 20 minutes to reactivate the DWR.
Unable to tumble-dry?
If tumble drying is not possible, line-dry the garment. Once dry, use a warm iron (no steam) with a towel barrier to help set the treatment.
Repairing holes
Our waterproof gear is built for durability, but punctures and abrasions can occur. For repairs, use self-adhesive, pressure-sensitive patches or tape available at most outdoor stores. For GORE-TEX garments, use a GORE-TEX repair kit to match the fabric. Follow these steps:
How to repair
Step 1: Cut loose threads
Trim loose threads and remove debris.
Step 2: Clean
Clean and dry the damaged area with a cloth — avoid machine washing to prevent the hole from getting bigger.
Step 3: Cut repair patch
Cut a rounded patch at least 1 cm larger than the hole.
Step 4: Apply the patch
Peel the backing and apply the patch without touching the adhesive.
Step 5: Remove airbubbles
Press firmly and smooth out any trapped air using a fingertip or a rounded tool (e.g., a credit card).
Step 6: Apply pressure
Apply pressure briefly to secure the bond.
Changing a zip slider
Replacing a damaged zip slider is straightforward. You’ll need pliers, plus a new slider and stopper available through our Customer Service.
How to change zipper
Step 1: Lay it out
Unzip the garment and lay it flat.
Step 2: Remove the stopper
Use pliers to remove the top stopper and slide off the old slider.
Step 3: Replace slider
Install the new slider with the narrow end pointing downward.
Step 4: Confirm its working
Test the zipper to confirm proper function.
Step 5: Replace the stopper
Attach the new stopper and secure it with pliers.
More care and repair questions?
Contact our customer service team at customerservice@haglofs.com for advice and spare parts.