Berghaus Customer Service
In attempt to provide you with as much information as possible about waterproof jackets and waterproofing in general, we have put together a list of our frequently asked questions. If you can’t find the information you’re looking for, please take a look at our waterproof information guides – here you can find all the information you need about waterproofing and waterproof jackets.
Yes, you can; in fact, we advise it. There is a common misconception that you can’t wash a waterproof jacket because it is waterproof or that it may ruin or damage the jackets waterproofness, however, this is a mistake. With frequent use, dirt and sweat can gradually build up and ultimately block the fibres’ breathability which may have an impact on the performance of the jacket. In order to prevent this, we recommend washing your waterproof jacket every so often and therefore have created a step-by-step guide with instructions on how to wash your waterproof jacket.
Key points to note are:
DWR or ‘Durable Water Repellent Technology’ is a specialist finish which is applied to the face fabric of our waterproof products, and without it, the fabric would ‘wet out’. DWR is not permanent and exposure to the elements and gradual wear and tear could strip it from the fabric. If your waterproof jacket is not performing as effectively as when bought, the DWR element may need re-proofing.
GORE-TEX® is renowned for being the first waterproof, windproof and breathable fabric, launched in Europe; it’s pioneering design and technology has shaped how outdoors kit is developed today.
In 1977, Berghaus was the first European outdoors company to introduce GORE-TEX® and incorporate its revolutionary technology into our clothing range.
If you would like to find out more information about the history of GORE-TEX® or its waterproof mechanism, read up on our GORE-TEX® technology guide.
Although it cannot be said for all waterproof jackets in general, the technologies used to develop Berghaus waterproof jackets mean that they’re also windproof. The same principle which prevents water and moisture entering the jacket but still allows it to leave also applies to the flow and ventilation of air.
Over time and with pre-longed use, the durable water-repellent (DWR) finish which is applied to the outer surface of a waterproof jacket can wear off. This chemical treatment, which is applied to a jacket during manufacture, prevents the fabric from absorbing moisture by creating a beading effect when in contact with water.
It is important to first check areas which are subject to a lot of movement and contact, such as the sides of the jacket and the arms. Similarly, it is also worth re-proofing a jacket after it has been washed as it is likely that both tasks need to be done at the same time.
Re-proofing a jacket is simple; Berghaus sell a range of Nikwax® treatments, which contain elastic water-repellent polymers that bond to the fibres of your jacket, leaving the spaces between open and breathable so it performs just as well as the day you bought it.
If you’d like to learn how to re-proof a waterproof jacket, we’ve put together a guide explaining how to use Nikwax® treatments.
How often your waterproof jacket is re-proofed will ultimately depend on how frequently you wear it and to what extent the jacket is tested against the elements. Should you feel as though your jacket is not performing as well as it used to, this is an obvious indication that it may need washing and re-proofing.
If you wear your jacket frequently then we advise to re-proof it ever 3-4 months depending on the intensity of your outdoor adventures. If you’re a less frequent wearer, then re-proofing your jacket could span between half of a year to a year.
Layering is the process of combining multiple layers of clothing to ensure that you’re protected and comfortable during your outdoors pursuits. Many people who’re not aware of the layering system and how effective it can be, may believe that it solely relates to keeping warm, however, the nature of the system is to ensure you can regulate your body temperature when necessary depending on whether or not you’re too cold or too hot. Although it more commonly refers to jackets and tops, the theory behind the system can also be applied to leggings and trousers.
Key points to note are:
If you would like to find out more information about the layering system, how it works and how you can create an effective one, check out our waterproof layering guide.
Generally speaking a lot of generic waterproof jackets are unisex and are not gender specific; Berghaus waterproof jackets, on the contrary, have been specifically designed with gender considerations. The sizing and ‘fit’ of a waterproof jacket is extremely important and is often overlooked, however, it can have a considerable impact on the jacket’s performance. We have created a waterproof jacket sizing guide to help you with this.
Each and every Berghaus jacket has been created with a tailored fit specific to either males or females. Most often, women’s waterproof jackets have shorter arms, narrower shoulders and wider hips, making them more comfortable from women to wear.
The “fit” of a waterproof jacket is very important and can often effect how well it performs. All of our waterproof jackets have been specifically designed to enhance performance and not hinder it; jackets that are too tight may restrict movement, whereas jackets which are too loose may create unnecessary weight and inconvenient bulk.
Make sure you choose a jacket which will assist and enhance your chosen activity; in order to help you do this, our waterproof jackets are categorised into three “fits”: Technical Fit, Active Fit and Relaxed Fit.
View our jacket sizing guide to find out more information on this.
Key points to note are:
Breathability is the measure of how quickly moisture generated from your body is able to pass through a fabric from the inside to the outer shell. It is an essential element which is deeply considered when developing any of our waterproof jackets. By allowing the free flow of moisture vapour, the breathability function of a garments allows you to naturally regulate your body temperature by sweating whilst staying dry.
If you are interested in breathability and would like to know more, check out our guide on what is breathability?
The best waterproof jacket will ultimately depend on intention of use as all of our jackets have been developed specifically with features which may make them better for particular activities.
However, with such a large of choice, we understand that choosing the ‘“best waterproof jacket’ can be a little daunting. For that reason, we have developed a waterproof jacket selector tool which uses a series of questions and criteria to help pinpoint the jackets which have been specifically designed to meet your needs and requirements.
Any other information which you may need or be interested in when looking for the perfect jacket can be found within our waterproof jacket hub.
