Tech Tip: Caring for Hydronaute™ Shellwear

One of the most asked questions here at Mont is “How do I care for my Hydronaute shellwear?”

My first tip is to try and keep your Hydronaute gear relatively clean. While rainwear does not require washing as frequently as general clothing, it is still important to ensure that body oils, insect repellents, makeup and other contaminants do not build up on the fabric. Overtime these contaminants, if left on the fabric, may cause bacteria growth, which proliferates, and can eat away at the bonding between waterproof membrane and seam sealing tape, resulting in de-lamination and a non-waterproof garment.

Keeping the outside of your shellwear clean between uses will also help to maintain and prolong the fabric’s performance.

So when it is time to clean your gear, follow these simple steps to maximise the life and performance of your Hydronaute shellwear:

– Select a gentle machine wash or hand wash your garment in warm water using a mild detergent
– Do not use bleach or fabric softener
– Drip dry in the shade
– Iron your garment on low heat to enhance the water repellent finish
– Do not tumble-dry
– Do not dry-clean

Hydronaute fabrics offer outstanding waterproof, breathable and windproof characteristics and by taking good care of your garment you can expect years of reliable performance in the wild.

“For the first time in my polar adventuring career I felt as though I was properly dressed for hard work in polar extremes. The fabric choice too was spot on, The Hydronaute Pro expelling our constant perspiration before it froze and holding up well to the constant abrasion of a sled harness. So perfect were these shells that our team again used them during Pat’s 1200km Antarctic run from Union Glacier to the South Pole.”
Eric Philips, Icetrek Expeditions

Mont. Trusted in the Wild.

Photo: Mont Latitude Overpants. By Tom Bush

Want more? Sign up to the Mont Newsletter to get gear reviews, news about product releases, great photos and advice on all your outdoor needs.