How do you ensure your Gore-Tex® Hardshell Jackets not only look their best, but also perform at their best for maybe decades? From ski jackets before they’re put away after a great season to the hand-me-down Gore-Tex jacket from your dad – our product team has put together a simple guide to help all of your jackets both last and look great as long as possibe.

Step 1 - Prep

For best practice, always check the care label (in the left or chest pocket) for special washing instructions.

To get started, empty all pockets and close all zippers. Fasten buttons and straps, secure hook-and-loop fasteners at their widest setting, and release any drawcords. Shake away dust and dirt, then turn your jacket inside out.

Step 2 - Detergent

The right detergent makes a big difference. We recommend using an eco-friendly liquid detergent for sports clothes.

CAUTION: Avoid powder detergents, bleach, stain removers, and fabric softener. Running an empty hot wash in advance will ensure your machine is clear of any excess products.

Step 3 - How to wash hardshells

Machine wash cold (max 30°C/85°F), ideally with an extra rinse cycle and low spin setting. If your machine does not does not have such settings available, use a delicate cycle.

Step 4 - How to dry hardshells

Turn your hardshell right side out and hang to dry. Once it is completely dry, run it in the tumble dryer for 20 minutes with the temperature not exceeding 55°C or 125°F to reactivate its durable water repellent (DWR) treatment.

If time is of the essence, you can tumble dry only. This generally takes about 40 minutes.

If unable to tumble dry, iron the dry garment on the gentle setting (warm with maximum ironing temperature 110° C or 230°F, no steam) by placing a towel or cloth between the garment and the iron. This will help reactivate the DWR treatment on your garment’s outer fabric.

Once your hardshell is dry, you can test its water repellency by sprinkling a couple drops of water over it. If the water beads off the surface, you're ready to go. If it soaks through, move on to Step 5.

Step 5 - Waterproofing

If water is no longer beading off your hardshell, even after re-activating the durable water repellent (DWR) in the dryer, then it's time for a refresh. We recommend using an eco-friendly impregnation spray, commonly found at your local outdoor retailer.

Apply the spray outdoors, following the instructions on the bottle, with special focus on high-wear areas like your jacket's shoulders and upper back.

Tip: Stain removal

Rule of thumb: Be quick, not aggressive. When it comes to stains, we recommend applying a drop of grease-cutting dish soap or gall soap, letting it sit for a moment, and then rinsing thoroughly.

This process will reduce impregnation though, so be sure to refresh the DWR treatment when finished.