Here’s a quick demonstration on how
to wax your trousers. This can also be
applied to other garments to reduce
abrasion and wetting out.
Heat the wax slightly with your hair
dryer. This allows the wax to be applied
a lot easier.
Make sure the garment is clean and free
from dirt, preferably using a non bio
detergent, making sure not to use fabric
softener. This will add a layer of film
to the garment that will impair any
wicking properties.
Rub the wax along the lower sections of
the trouser leg, ensuring you pay close
attention to the stitching and seamed
areas. You can also add the wax to the
seat area of the trousers if you wish. No
body likes a wet bottom.
Once you have applied a layer, heat the
wax with a hair dryer until it melts into
the fabric. Be careful not to keep the
hair dryer in one spot for too long and
be mindful of the heat to avoid burning
your hand as the hair dryer can get hot
over time.
I recommend repeating this process three
to seven times. The more wax applied, the
less breathable, but more water repellent
and durable the item will become. Again,
paying close attention to the stitching
and seams.
Please note you should only apply the wax
to heavy cotton or denim areas of the garment.
Apply the wax to all lower sections of
the leg to reduce wetting out and
abrasion. As you can see, I have not
waxed the lower ankle band on the
trouser. This can also be done but is a
little trickier. This section is usually
in contact with The Walking boot, so no
need.
The fabric will become a
lot stiffer from the wax compared non waxed areas.
When the wax is applied, it causes the
fabric to darken in colour.
Water will now bead on the waxed section compared to the non wax
areas. We applied three
layers of wax on the lower leg section
for this demonstration.
Washing the garment at 40° will remove
all applied wax.
