GEAR CARE

HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR HUNTECH GEAR

Your Huntech gear is built to handle New Zealand’s demanding hunting conditions, from wet bush and river valleys to alpine tops, frosty clearings and exposed ridgelines.

Even the toughest technical fabrics need proper care to stay waterproof, breathable and performing at their best. This guide covers everything you need to know about washing, reproofing and storing your Huntech garments, whether you are using waterproof shells, softshells, Glaciertech mid layers, Nucleus base layers or Merino wool.

Follow these instructions and your gear will keep working hard for many more seasons in the hills, bush and backcountry.

GARMENT CARE GUIDE

Garment type Wash with Reproof with Drying method
Waterproof shells Nikwax Tech Wash Nikwax TX.Direct Wash-In Line dry in shade
Softshells Nikwax Tech Wash Nikwax Softshell Proof Wash-In Line dry in shade
Glaciertech Nikwax Sports Refresh Not required Line dry in shade
Nucleus Nikwax Sports Refresh Not required Line dry in shade
Merino Nikwax Wool Wash Not required Lay flat or line dry in shade

WHY GARMENT CARE MATTERS

Technical hunting clothing is an investment in your comfort and safety outdoors. The waterproof membranes, DWR coatings and performance fabrics built into Huntech garments can all be affected by sweat, body oils, smoke, dirt and residue left behind by standard household detergents.

The most common reason waterproof gear starts to lose performance is not membrane damage. It is a compromised DWR finish. When dirt and oil build up on the outer fabric, the DWR coating loses its ability to bead water effectively. Instead of running off, water saturates the outer shell. This wet out effect dramatically reduces breathability. When gear loses breathability, you can end up wet from the inside rather than from rain getting through the membrane.

Regular cleaning is not just about hygiene. It is one of the best ways to preserve performance.

BEFORE WASHING YOUR HUNTECH GEAR

  1. Check the care label first.
  2. Check and empty all pockets.
  3. Close all zips, press down all dome fasteners, and secure any Velcro closures. Open Velcro will collect lint and can snag the membrane.
  4. Brush off dried mud before placing garments in the machine.
  5. Wash technical garments separately from heavily soiled workwear or everyday laundry.
  6. Do not overload the machine, as garments need room to rinse properly.
Image of man sitting in tussock carrying a rifle and wearing the jacket in military green.

WATERPROOF SHELLS

WATERPROOF SHELLS: HOW TO WASH

Huntech waterproof jackets and pants are built with a waterproof breathable membrane. Sometimes all that is needed to revive performance is a technical wash to keep that membrane and the outer DWR finish in top condition. 

  1. Turn the garment inside out.
  2. Wash on a gentle machine cycle in cold water (30°C maximum). If you are unsure of your machine's temperature settings, use cold water only to avoid heat damage to the membrane.
  3. We recommend using Nikwax Tech Wash and following the manufacturer's dosage instructions. 
  4. Do not use standard laundry detergent, fabric softener, bleach, or any other household cleaning product. These leave a water-absorbent film on the fabric that blocks DWR performance and can permanently damage the membrane.
  5. Do not dry if you are planning on waterproofing as well. This can be done while the garment is still wet.

WATERPROOF SHELLS: HOW TO DRY

  • Line dry in the shade, away from direct heat and sunlight. Prolonged UV and heat exposure can soften adhesive seam tape and degrade the outer fabric.
  • Nikwax is specifically formulated to work without heat.
  • Never dry clean or iron waterproof garments.
  • Do not store wet or damp. Damp storage encourages mould growth, which can damage the waterproof membrane.

WATERPROOF SHELLS: WHEN TO REPROOF

The DWR coating will wear over time with use and washing. When you notice water sitting on the surface of the outer fabric rather than beading and running off, it is time to reproof.

  • Wash the garment first with Nikwax Tech Wash as above.
  • While the garment is still wet, apply Nikwax TX.Direct Wash-In following the manufacturer’s instructions. This product is designed specifically for waterproof breathable fabrics and adds a fresh DWR layer without blocking the membrane or seams.
  • Air dry away from direct sunlight. Nikwax is specifically formulated to work without heat.
Image of a young man with his dog next to them, both of them intently gazing at something. He is wearing the trail jacket in the kakariki camo pattern with the logo on the left sleeve visible. He is holding binoculars.

SOFTSHELLS

SOFTSHELLS: HOW TO WASH

Softshell fabrics offer a balance of weather resistance, stretch and breathability. Like waterproof shells, softshell outer fabrics carry a DWR treatment that needs to be maintained for the garment to perform.

  • Close all zips and fastenings.
  • Machine wash on a gentle cycle in cold to warm water, 30°C maximum.
  • We recommend using Nikwax Tech Wash. Avoid standard detergents, softeners and bleach.
  • If you are not reproofing the garment, simply air dry it in the shade.

SOFTSHELLS: WHEN TO REPROOF

When water stops beading on the outer fabric of your softshell, we recommend using Nikwax Softshell Proof Wash-In after first cleaning with Tech Wash.

Softshell Proof is specifically formulated for the stretch fabrics used in softshell construction. It restores water repellency and breathability without the need for tumble drying to activate.
Hunter shown wearing kakariki pattern with pig slung over shoulders.

GLACIERTECH

The Glaciertech range is Huntech’s high performance synthetic mid layer and warm weather top fabric, made from recycled REPREVE fibres and treated with Silvadur Scent Control to help reduce scent in the field.

  • Glaciertech garments are not DWR treated and do not require reproofing, but they do need appropriate cleaning to help preserve scent control properties and fabric performance.
  • Use Nikwax Sports Refresh and machine wash on a gentle cycle in cold water.
  • Nikwax Sports Refresh is formulated for synthetic performance fabrics. It cleans thoroughly without leaving the detergent residue that standard washing products can deposit in synthetic fibres.
  • Regular cleaning with Sports Refresh base wash helps keep the fabric’s wicking channels open and preserves the Silvadur Scent Control treatment for longer.
  • Avoid fabric softeners. These coat synthetic fibres and reduce moisture management performance.
  • Line dry in the shade.

NUCLEUS BASE LAYERS

The Nucleus range combines the insulating performance of a thermal base layer with the moisture management of a technical synthetic. Like Glaciertech, Nucleus garments are not DWR treated and do not need reproofing.

  • Machine wash on a gentle or delicate cycle in cold water.
  • Use Nikwax Sports Refresh. This is gentler on synthetic thermal constructions than standard detergents and will not degrade the fibre structure over repeated washes.
  • Do not use fabric softener or bleach.
  • Line dry and avoid high heat, which can damage synthetic thermal fibres.
Image of man wearing dark olive green hoodie with the hood up and the Huntech logo in yellow on the left forearm. He's looking through binoculars.

MERINO

Huntech’s Merino range delivers natural temperature regulation, odour resistance and comfort against the skin in cool to cold hunting conditions. Wool requires a gentler approach to washing than synthetic fabrics.

  • Machine wash on a wool or delicate cycle in cold water.
  • We recommend using Nikwax Wool Wash, which is specifically formulated for wool fibres.
  • Standard detergents can strip wool’s natural lanolin, causing shrinkage, pilling and a loss of softness.
  • Do not wring, tumble dry or iron. Heat and agitation can cause wool to felt and shrink permanently.
  • Lay flat to dry or line dry in the shade.
  • Merino wool has natural odour resistant properties, which means your garments do not need to be washed after every use. Air them out between trips and wash when visibly soiled.

HOW TO DEAL WITH MUD, BLOOD AND STAINS

  • Let mud dry before brushing off as much as possible. Avoid scrubbing aggressively, as this can damage face fabrics and membranes.
  • For blood or organic stains, rinse with cold water as soon as possible. Do not use hot water, as heat can set stains into the fabric.
  • Use Nikwax Stain Scrub on stubborn marks which will not leave residue that affects DWR performance, breathability or fibre structure.
  • After rinsing, wash with the correct Nikwax product for the garment type.

WHAT TO AVOID FOR ALL GARMENTS

  • Avoid dry cleaning.
  • Avoid ironing unless specified on the care label.
  • Do not use bleach or harsh chemical cleaners.
  • Do not use fabric softeners. These coat fibres and block performance properties.
  • Avoid tumble drying on high heat settings.
  • Do not leave garments wet, damp or stored in sealed bags. Damp storage promotes mould growth that can permanently damage waterproof membranes and synthetic fabrics.
  • Keep garments away from direct heat sources, including heaters, campfires and hot vehicle dashboards.
  • Keep technical fabrics away from direct flame and sparks, as they can burn or melt.

PROTECTING YOUR GEAR IN THE FIELD

Huntech garments are built for demanding New Zealand hunting environments, including wet native bush, alpine country, scrubby river margins, frosty clearings and exposed tops. Some field conditions require extra care.

Sharp vegetation such as matagouri, gorse, blackberry, mānuka, kānuka and thick scrub can puncture waterproof membranes. Small holes can cause localised leaks that are difficult to trace. Inspect your gear after pushing through rough country and check seams and membrane panels first.

Keep garments as clean as possible during trips. A build up of sweat, dirt and organic material accelerates fabric wear and reduces technical performance, particularly in DWR treated outer layers.

Do not leave Huntech gear in direct sunlight for extended periods. UV exposure degrades fabrics and can soften adhesive used in seam taping.

HOW OFTEN TO WASH

  • Wash waterproof and softshell outer layers when visibly dirty or when you notice reduced DWR performance, such as water no longer beading off the surface.
  • Wash Glaciertech and Nucleus base layers after two to three days of active use, or sooner if heavily sweated in.
  • Wash Merino garments when visibly soiled. Due to wool’s natural odour resistance, Merino typically needs washing less often than synthetic alternatives.
  • Treat stains with Stain Scrub as they arrive
  • Overwashing technical garments unnecessarily is not recommended. It accelerates wear on DWR coatings and synthetic fibres. The goal is to wash when needed, wash correctly and reproof when the DWR starts to fail.

Huntech garments are designed to last many seasons, not just one trip. The right care routine protects your investment and helps your gear perform when it matters most, whether you are glassing at first light, pushing through wet bush or heading into the hills in changing weather.

Stock up on Nikwax Tech Wash, TX.Direct, Sports Refresh, Softshell Proof, Wool Wash and Polar Proof from the Huntech accessories range. If you have questions about caring for a specific garment, contact the Huntech team. We use this gear too, and we are here to help

Frequently asked questions

Can I use regular laundry detergent on my Huntech jacket?

Please don’t. Regular detergents leave a thin film of water absorbent residue on technical fabrics that blocks DWR performance and reduces breathability. Always use a purpose specific cleaner: Nikwax Tech Wash for waterproof and softshell garments, Nikwax Sports Refresh for synthetics or Nikwax Wool Wash for Merino.
My jacket is leaking. Does it need to be replaced?

Not necessarily. The most common cause of apparent leaking in a waterproof jacket is wet out of the outer DWR finish, not membrane failure. When the outer fabric saturates with water, it feels wet even though no water is penetrating the membrane.

Start by washing with Nikwax Tech Wash to remove contamination, then reproof with Nikwax TX.Direct. If leaking continues after reproofing, the membrane may be damaged and you should contact us.
Can I tumble dry my waterproof jacket?

Always line dry in the shade where possible. You can tumble dry on a cool cycle only if the care label allows it.

Check your machine’s settings first. If the temperature cannot be verified, line drying in the shade is the safer option. Do not use a hot or standard dryer cycle.
How do I know when to reproof?

Watch the outer surface of your garment in the rain. When water beads and runs off cleanly, the DWR is working. When water spreads across the surface and is absorbed rather than repelled, it is time to reproof.

Clean first, then apply the appropriate Nikwax waterproofing product for your garment type.
Can I wash all Huntech garments together?

It is better to keep garment types separate. Waterproof and softshell garments need Nikwax Tech Wash. Glaciertech and Nucleus synthetics need Nikwax Sports Refresh. Merino garments need Nikwax Wool Wash. Using the wrong product on the wrong fabric will not necessarily cause immediate damage, but it will reduce effectiveness over time.
Is Nikwax safe for the environment?

Yes. Nikwax products are water-based, PFAS-free (no fluorocarbons), and formulated to be safer for aquatic environments than standard laundry products. Nikwax has not used PFAS in any of their formulations since the company was founded in 1977. This aligns with Huntech's commitment to gear that is built and maintained sustainably.
How often should I reproof my waterproof hunting jacket?

Reproof when water stops beading on the outer fabric. There is no fixed schedule, as it depends on use, weather exposure and how often the garment is washed.
Can I wash Huntech gear after every hunt?

You can, but it is not always necessary. Wash technical garments when they are visibly dirty, heavily sweated in or no longer performing as expected.
Why does my waterproof jacket feel wet inside?

This can happen when the outer fabric wets out and breathability drops. Moisture from sweat builds up inside the garment, making it feel like the jacket is leaking.
Can I use a top loader washing machine?

Yes, provided it has a gentle cycle and does not use hot water. Avoid overloading the machine and make sure the garment rinses properly.