Re-proofing Army Ponchos

[Steffan]

Army Ponchos are wonderful things, so many uses - like as a picnic blanket on wet ground which is what mine was being used for at lunchtime today. Only problem was as I knelt on it I got wet knees, thus highlighting that it was no longer waterproof. So before I push the price of these items up on ebay I was wondering if anyone out there had attempted reproofing them or whether any knew whether they can be reproofed?

Thanks all

Steffan

[002]

If it is a nylon or canvas type material,then use Fabsil or similar.
Fabsil being The Stuff fore reproofing nylon and canvas tents.

Jethro

[guest27]

Nikwax probably have a product to do this too. http://www.nikwax.co.uk/en-us/index.php

Or you could re-wax it like a barbour/belstaff?

R

[guest18]

I wouldn't use wax on it but I would agree with both the above about fabsil and nikwax, both produce some excellent products.
It's worth remembering thought that ponchos and the like were never designed as groundsheets and even new may well fail to be 100% waterproof when used as such. Damn versatile otherwise though

[guest7]

I used Fabsil on mine a few years ago and I have to say I was disappointed with the results.

Having said that I will be treating it again prior to the Dragon because it's cheaper than buying a new goretex one :-)

GC

[only me]

I have never seen a goretex poncho,fabsil is ok but you have to keep re proofing as it only lasts for a short period,and it ain't cheap ,how long have you had the old one? and how much would you be spending on reproofing,i think a new one is in order Stef and i think the dutch poncho is probably the best of the bunch unless you have another preference