Keep Your Kit Performing Like New
High-performance cycling gear requires expert care. Learn how to wash, dry, and protect your Sportful apparel to maintain peak performance.
The Golden Rules of Sportful Apparel Care
Before loading the washing machine, remember these four essential care rules:
How to Wash Sportful Cycling & Outdoor Gear
Step 1: Pre-Wash Preparation
- Air out post-ride: Never leave damp gear inside a bag.
- Rinse mud off: Wash off caked dirt with cold water before machine washing.
- Protect delicate mesh: Place bib shorts in a mesh wash bag to avoid strap stretching.
Step 2: Choose the Right Cycle & Soap
- Use a liquid sports detergent designed for technical synthetic fabrics.
- Avoid detergent powders, bleach, or stain removers.
- Select a Delicate or Synthetic cycle with low spin speed (max 800 RPM).
Step 3: Drying & Storage
- Hang dry in a well-ventilated, shaded space.
- Keep away from direct sunlight, radiators, or heat sources.
- Ensure chamois pads are 100% dry before storing to prevent odor and bacteria.
Waterproof & Windproof Care (Fiandre & GORE-TEX®)
Water-repellent garments rely on a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating. Over time, dirt and wear reduce water beading. Here is how to restore it:
- Clean the Fabric: Wash the jacket following standard care instructions to remove dirt blocking the pores.
- Re-activate DWR: Apply gentle heat (tumble dry on low for 10–15 minutes if the care label allows) to re-activate the factory DWR treatment.
- Re-apply Reproofer: If water still soaks into the outer layer, treat the clean garment with a spray-on or wash-in DWR reproofer (e.g., Nikwax or Granger’s).
Care Instructions by Product Type
Bib Shorts & Tights
30°C (86°F)
Use a wash bag; protect mesh straps.
Air dry pad thoroughly.
Jerseys & Base Layers
30°C (86°F)
Zip completely and turn inside out.
Hang dry.
Fiandre / Jackets
30°C (86°F)
No powder detergent; re-activate DWR.
Air dry / Low heat if allowed.
Gloves & Accessories
30°C (86°F)
Close all Velcro closures tight.
Air dry flat.
Ready for your next ride?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I tumble dry my Sportful bib shorts?
No. Tumble drying damages the elastane fibers, compromises seam bonding, and reduces the lifespan of the chamois pad. Always air dry bib shorts.
Why did my technical gear lose its moisture-wicking ability?
This usually happens when fabric softener or powder detergents block the micro-pores of technical synthetic fibers. Wash your garment 1–2 times with a specialized sports detergent (no softener) to remove residues.
How often should I wash my windproof or waterproof jacket?
Wash outer jackets only when visibly dirty, sweaty, or when water stops beading on the surface. Excessive washing reduces the lifespan of waterproof membranes.