Outdoor Research (OR), an outdoor gear and apparel company, has announced a strategic partnership with Nikwax, a pioneer in aftercare solutions for outdoor gear, apparel and footwear. The partnership will begin in September.
Under the agreement, Nikwax will become OR’s preferred partner for after-purchase Durable Water Repellent (DWR) care and treatment. The collaboration is part of OR’s commitment to transition away from intentionally added per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which will be completed by the Spring 2024 product line.
“This new relationship plays a vital role in our transition to a PFAS-free environment by providing our customers with the best-in-class aftercare products in the market. Our goals are to help educate the consumer and our retail partners on the proper care of technical apparel to ensure their investment will maintain the high level of performance they expect from OR,” said Alex Lauver, senior director of Materials, Innovation, & Sustainability at OR.
Education is a crucial focus for OR and Nikwax. Outdoor Research is committed to teaching consumers how to care for their products to ensure they last longer, perform better and reduce their environmental impact. Nikwax shares this mission, as it has been providing high-quality, PFAS-free aftercare solutions since 1977 and is dedicated to reducing the environmental impacts associated with the manufacture of outdoor gear.
“Circularity and clean chemistry have always been critical components of our business at Nikwax,” said Brian Davidson, president of Nikwax North America. “From our easy-to-use solutions that help people extend the life of their outdoor clothing, footwear, and gear, to our commitment to developing the highest performing DWR, while never having used PFAS.”
The partnership will provide consumers access to high-quality aftercare solutions that promote sustainability and extend the life of their outdoor gear.
For more information, visit www.outdoorresearch.com.
