What Our Gearhead® Experts Are Saying: "I use SoftShell Proof any time my go-to hiking or climbing softshell starts wetting out. It’s incredibly simple to run through a normal wash cycle, and the difference in performance is obvious—water beads again, breathability improves, and the fabric feels way less saturated during hard efforts."We reach for Nikwax SoftShell Proof Wash-In when our trusted softshell layers start soaking up moisture instead of shedding it. Softshell fabrics shine in mixed conditions because they balance weather protection, stretch, and breathability—but they depend on an intact water-repellent finish to maintain that performance. SoftShell Proof revitalizes that barrier and restores the airflow that makes these layers such versatile companions in the mountains. The wash-in formula penetrates deep through the garment’s fibers to evenly renew durable water repellency without stiffening the fabric or limiting movement. It revives breathability by preventing saturation and reduces the chilling effect caused when outer fabrics hold moisture. The result is a softshell that performs better during high-output hikes, windy ridge scrambles, and damp shoulder-season missions where staying warm and dry makes all the difference.