Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between waterproof breathable rain gear and PVC rain gear?
A: PVC (polyvinyl-chloride) is a coating that is applied to a base fabric that is durable, abrasion resistant and completely impenetrable to water. The seams of PVC garments are welded to create a completely watertight seal. PVC raingear has been the product of choice for nearly every commercial fisherman since its inception. We introduced our first Brigg and Herkules raingear in 1954. Waterproof breathable fabrics allow perspiration and condensation inside the garments to pass outward. Microporous breathable fabrics have tiny holes that let water vapor escape without letting water in. Body heat and the higher pressure of humidity help to drive out the water vapor. The seams on waterproof breathable garments are taped on the inside of the garment to prevent water intrusion through seams.
Q: I got wet and I was wearing PVC, why?
A: PVC garments create an impermeable barrier against water intrusion. All the seams on Grundéns PVC products are RF welded to prevent any leakage through the seams. While this is great for keeping water out of the garment in the worst weather, it also prevents any moisture, such as perspiration or damp baselayers, from escaping easily. To counteract that, most of our PVC garments are cut on the loose side to allow for Mechanical Ventilation. Make sure you are wearing technical fabrics and quick-drying clothing underneath your raingear to keep yourself dry from the inside out.
Q: I got wet and I was wearing a waterproof breathable garment, why?
A: Most waterproof breathable fabrics have a Durable Water Repellent(DWR) coating on them in addition to a microporous waterproof membrane. Salt, sun, dirt, oils, and time may degrade these DWR coatings and clog the microporous membrane. Washing your garment with a product designed for cleaning technical synthetic garments (such as Nikwax Tech Wash) can greatly enhance the waterproofing of your garments. As always, make sure you are wearing technical fabrics and quick-drying clothing underneath your raingear to keep yourself dry from the inside out.
Q: I have a tear in my PVC bibs, how do I fix it?
A: Check out our Patch Kit w/Aqua Seal.
Q: Where can I buy Grundéns in my town?
A: Check out our Locate Dealers page.
Q: I have some photos of me doing cool stuff in Grundéns gear that I want to share with the world. How do I do this?
A: Please email diego@grundens.com with any content you wish to share with Grundens.
Q: I am the best fisherman I know and Grundéns should sponsor me, how do I do this?
A: Visit our Ambassadors page.
Q: What if I have a problem with my gear?
A: Check out our Returns page.
Q: How should I clean my waterproof breathable gear?
A: We recommend NikWax Tech Wash or similar product to clean your waterproof breathable garments. Hang to dry.
Q: How should I Store my rain gear?
A: If possible, do not store your raingear wet or damp. Corrosion of button and zippers occur quickly when stored wet. Grundéns recommends rinsing your gear with fresh water (to remove salt etc) and then hang to dry. Allow to hang dry completely before packing away.
Q: What if I have other questions?
A: Feel free to contact us with any questions.