HOW TO PREVENT MILDEW
The only way to stop mildew is through prevention—dirt/microbes can create an environment for mold growth, so it's important to keep them clean. Once mildew develops, it cannot be removed or cleaned off. Mildew is extremely destructive, especially to waterproof membranes used in rain jackets and waders. It penetrates between layers and beneath seams, causing them to separate and lift over time, which leads to leaks.
- Ensure proper airflow: Always dry waders inside and out after every use.
- Hang to dry: Use a fan in humid environments for faster drying.
- Turn waders inside out – mildew is most commonly found on the inside of waders. It is OK to grab the inside of the waders' stocking feet and turn them inside out when drying.
- Avoid leaving waders wet and balled up: Even one instance can allow mildew to take hold and ruin your waders.
- Hang waders until fully dry
DRY ROT - BOOTS, SHOES, WADERS
Dry rot occurs when shoes or wading boots are stored for long periods without use, and the sole's rubber completely degrades and falls apart. It is very common for boots to crumble and fall apart if they have been sitting for long periods. The PU rubber used in shoe soles absorbs and retains moisture, and when shoes and boots are worn, that moisture is squeezed out of the rubber. If the boots are not used, that moisture will pool inside the rubber, causing it to rot and completely fall apart. We recommend taking your shoes and boots out a few times a year, even just to wear around the house, to help the rubber stretch and flex and stay supple and dry. Because our boots are designed for wet environments, it is even more important to completely dry them out before you put them away for storage, and to take them out and wear them periodically to prevent dry rot. Dry rot also happens to waders, typically in the glue on the seams. Unfortunately, our warranty does not cover dry rot.
CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE
For waders, we recommend cleaning by hand using the soft side of a sponge or a very soft-bristled brush with an appropriately diluted detergent.
For rain jackets, we recommend washing and drying them on a gentle cycle with medium heat.
For all waterproof items, we recommend using NikWax cleaners, a company specializing in detergents for outdoor gear. For rain jackets and waders, we recommend:
- Tech Wash – Removes oils and sweat while reopening the breathable pores.
- TX.Direct – Reapplies DWR (Durable Water Repellent) to help water bead and roll off instead of soaking into the material.
For rain jackets, regular washing and drying will actually extend their lifespan. Oils from skin and salty perspiration can break down adhesives, causing seams to separate and leading to leaks. Use the gentle cycle on warm, with the center agitator turned off, and dry on medium heat for about 15 minutes. The heat helps bring the old DWR back to the surface and redistributes the existing DWR coating across the fabric surface. Hang the product, and fully dry after each cleaning.
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR UNDER MY WADERS?
Polyester, other synthetic materials, and wool are the best materials to wear under your waders, including socks and under garments. These materials will wick moisture away from your skin and will allow any moisture accumulation to dry much faster. Avoid cotton at any cost, and any pants that use belts, buckles, rivets, or other metal features as they will cause microscopic holes and accelerated wear on the seams and face fabric. The absolute worst thing you can wear under your waders are jeans. The abrasiveness of denim causes pinholes prematurely, and metal components can also create holes. cotton will cause any natural condensation to pool up against your skin, stealing any heat generated from your body.
PROPER FIT AND WHY IT MATTERS
Getting the right fit is essential for the longevity and performance of your waders. Please refer to our Size & Fit Guide on each wader product page, and contact our customer service team if you have any questions or concerns.
If waders are too small, every movement puts extra stress on the seams, causing premature wear and tear.
If waders are too large, excess material can bunch and rub together as you walk, leading to abrasion and pinholes over time.