Fleece fabrics are used to provide lightweight, insulating mid layers and additionally hats and gloves to keep you warm. Fleece fabrics are made from synthetic fibers. The construction of the fabric allows air to be trapped between the fibers and warmed by body heat to provide insulation for the user. Although the individual fibers of fleece cannot absorb water, it is possible for water to become trapped in the spaces between the fibers. The accumulation of water reduces the insulating properties of fleece and also causes weight gain; fleece can hold up to 50% of its weight in water! This reduces the comfort of the user causing them to feel wet and cold, but more importantly the reduction in insulation is dangerous and in severe cases can lead to hypothermia.
Anyone who is active outside will benefit from wearing fleece. Either being used as a mid layer or an outer garment, the insulating properties of fleece will improve user comfort. So, if you are a mountaineer or dog walker or you work outside as a farmer or surveyor, insulating clothing will help to keep you warm
Your fleece garment could be soaking up water just because it is dirty. So, first, try cleaning it with Nikwax Tech Wash, and if it is fairly new, or recently re-waterproofed, the Durable Water Repellency (DWR) will be revitalized just from cleaning. But once the garment has been thoroughly worn, you will need to add DWR using Nikwax Polar Proof, after cleaning first with Nikwax Tech Wash.
Alternative waterproofing products are often solvent-based aerosols; alternatively, they may be water-based and use fluorocarbons. Aerosol products are flammable. Fluorocarbons pose a potential risk to the environment and to the long-term health of the consumer. Nikwax Polar Proof is a safe product to use on fleece garments. It is WaterBased, non-flammable, contains no harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and is fluorocarbon free.
Nikwax Polar Proof has been specifically designed and optimized for fleece garments, providing Durable Water Repellency (DWR) while maintaining breathability.
Nikwax Polar Proof requires no heat to develop its DWR, so it is not necessary to use a tumble drier for best results.
