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Waterproofing Your gear
Each spring we should spend a day waterproofing our gear. One thing that can ruin a trip for me is being wet and having wet gear. We can do our best to keep stuff dry by using a waterproofing agent for different types of gear.
Let’s start with the most important piece- you.
Outerwear is the one thing that should be of good quality. If you spend more money on anything else, it should be outerwear. There are many types of fabrics available. Gore-Tex is one of the most popular. Your outerwear should be convertible for varying climates.
Tents
With all the different tent designs around, there is one thing they all have: seams. Take time in picking out a seam sealer, and when you apply it to your equipment, make sure you don’t miss a single seam. Most tents these days have a rain fly, which needs to be treated with a waterproofing spray as well. To effectively coat your tent, set it up so no fabric or seams are missed.
Backpacks
You can use the same products that you use for your tent to waterproof your quality backpack. Those products help the outside but be prepared if your pack takes a float down a creek or takes on heavy rains. Use dry bags and rucksack liners to ensure you keep items dry inside the pack. Also, you can use a pack cover to protect the outside of your pack.
Boots
The waterproof agent you choose here will depend on the type of footwear material. Multi-purpose sprays are great for minimal water exposure. For those that want a little something more substantial, there are a variety of waxes, oils, and other products. Some of these treatments even require a hair dryer or heat for penetration, so again, be sure to check the care instructions on the label. Your boots can last for years to come by simply following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Whatever the product you use, make sure to read the label for precautions. If it says to use in a well ventilated area, do it. Use gloves and other protective equipment as recommended.
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