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How to Care for Your Technical Sailing Gear

Salt, UV exposure and incorrect washingcan halve its performance lifespan.

14 January 2026

What to know

Technical sailing gear performs best when it’s cared for correctly
Over-washing and incorrect detergents can reduce waterproof performance
Salt, dirt and moisture affect breathability and durability over time
Simple habits can significantly extend the life of your kit

Caring for technical sailing gear doesn’t need to be complicated. By following a few simple principles — washing only when needed, drying thoroughly and storing gear correctly, you can help preserve performance, comfort and protection season after season.

Why care matters

Technical sailing garments are exposed to some of the harshest environments in sport: salt spray, prolonged UV exposure, constant movement and abrasion. Over time, dirt, salt and moisture can compromise fabric performance if not properly managed.

Regular care doesn’t just improve longevity, it ensures your gear continues to function as designed.

The fundamentals of caring for technical sailing gear

Wash only when needed

Over-washing can reduce fabric lifespan and affect waterproof performance. Wash technical garments only when they are visibly dirty or no longer performing as expected.

After each use:

Rinse salt residue with fresh water where possible
Allow garments to air-dry fully
Inspect for dirt, wear or damage

Wash correctly

Before washing:

Remove detachable accessories
Close all zips, fasteners and Velcro
Wash with similar colours

Always:

Use a non-biological detergent
Avoid fabric softeners and bleaching agents
Follow the care label inside your garment for product-specific guidance

Drying and storage

Drying and storage play a major role in maintaining performance.

Air-dry garments thoroughly before storage
Never store gear damp or compressed
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight

At the end of the season, allow garments extra time to dry completely before long-term storage.

Maintaining waterproof performance (DWR care)

Waterproof Musto garments are treated with a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish that causes water to bead and roll off the outer fabric. Over time, salt, dirt and wear can reduce this effectiveness.

How to check DWR performance

Sprinkle water onto the fabric:

If water beads and rolls off → no action needed
If water absorbs into the fabric → re-proofing is required

Re-proof only when performance drops — not after every wash.

In some cases, gentle heat (where permitted by the care label) can help reactivate DWR performance.

Repair vs replace: knowing when action is needed

Minor issues such as worn DWR, loose seams or damaged fasteners don’t necessarily mean the end of your gear. Addressing problems early can often restore performance and extend garment life.

For detailed repair options and product-specific advice, refer to our Product Care and Repairs information.