How to Care for Your Technical Ski Gear

Proper care of your technical ski gear is essential to maintain its performance and extend its lifespan. Follow these guidelines to ensure your gear stays in top condition.

Washing Technical Outerwear

Technical outerwear, such as ski jackets and pants, requires special care to preserve its waterproof and breathable properties and extend its lifespan. Examples of technical outerwear include the Arc'Teryx CMH Neos 2.0, Arc'Teryx Guide pants, Ortovox Guardian jacket and pants. Follow these steps to wash your technical outerwear:

  1. Read the Care Label: Always check the manufacturer's instructions on the care label.
  2. Pre-treat Stains: Use a gentle stain remover on any visible stains.
  3. Use Technical Detergent: Regular detergents can leave residues that affect the performance of the fabric. Use a detergent specifically designed for technical gear.
  4. Wash on a Gentle Cycle: Use cold water and a gentle cycle to avoid damaging the fabric.
  5. Rinse Thoroughly: Make sure all detergent is rinsed out to prevent buildup.
  6. Air Dry: Avoid using a dryer as high heat can damage the fabric. Instead, air dry your outerwear.

Watch this video for detailed instructions on washing technical outerwear: How to wash technical outerwear

Washing Down Insulation Garments

Down insulation garments, such as down jackets, require careful handling to maintain their loft and insulation properties. Example of down filled jackets would be the Arc'Teryx Cerium Hoody. Follow these steps:

  1. Read the Care Label: Always follow the manufacturer's care instructions.
  2. Use a Down-Specific Detergent: Regular detergents can strip the natural oils from down feathers, reducing their effectiveness.
  3. Wash in Cold Water: Use a gentle cycle and cold water to protect the down.
  4. Rinse Thoroughly: Ensure all detergent is rinsed out completely.
  5. Dry with Tennis Balls: Tumble dry on low heat with clean tennis balls to help fluff the down.

For a comprehensive guide on washing down insulation garments, watch this video: How to wash down insulation garments

Washing Synthetic Insulation Garments

Arc'teryx Atom AR Hoody (warming up by lake)

Synthetic insulation garments, such as those filled with polyester or other synthetic fibers, also need specific care to maintain their insulating properties. Examples of synthetic insulated garments would be the Arc'Teryx Atom Hoody and Skyline Furnace Knicker. Here’s how to wash them:

  1. Read the Care Label: Check the manufacturer's instructions.
  2. Use Mild Detergent: Avoid harsh detergents that can damage synthetic fibers.
  3. Wash on a Gentle Cycle: Use cold or warm water and a gentle cycle.
  4. Rinse Well: Make sure all detergent is completely rinsed out.
  5. Air Dry or Low Heat: Air dry or use a dryer on a low heat setting to prevent damage.

For more detailed instructions, watch this video: How to wash synthetic insulation garments

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your technical ski gear stays in great shape and continues to perform well season after season.