How to Care for and Maintain Your Under Armour Jacket for Longevity

Under Armour jackets are designed for performance, durability, and comfort, making them a favorite choice for active individuals. Whether you’re using your jacket for sports, outdoor activities, or everyday wear, taking proper care of it ensures it stays in top condition for years to come. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best practices for caring for and maintaining your Under Armour jacket to help it last longer while keeping it looking and functioning like new.

1. Follow the Care Instructions on the Label

The first step to properly caring for your Under Armour jacket is to always check and follow the care instructions on the garment’s label. Under Armour provides specific washing and care recommendations for each jacket type to ensure it remains in optimal condition. Ignoring these instructions can lead to damage, shrinkage, or the loss of the jacket’s performance features, like water resistance or insulation.

Machine Washable Jackets: For machine washable jackets, always use cold water to preserve the fabric and prevent shrinkage. Avoid using fabric softeners, as they can degrade the performance fabrics.
Hand Wash When Necessary: For jackets with delicate materials, or if the label specifies hand washing, take extra care to wash gently and avoid wringing out the fabric.

Tip: Always separate your jackets from heavy items like jeans or towels to prevent friction damage.

2. Use Mild Detergent and Avoid Fabric Softener

When washing your Under Armour jacket, it’s important to use a mild, non-detergent soap that is free from harsh chemicals and bleach. A gentle detergent will help preserve the integrity of the jacket’s fabric, keeping it soft while maintaining its moisture-wicking, heat-regulating, or water-resistant properties.

Avoid Fabric Softener: Fabric softeners can clog the pores of technical fabrics like those used in Under Armour jackets, reducing their breathability and moisture-wicking abilities. These additives can also affect the jacket’s ability to repel water or trap heat.

Tip: Look for detergents designed specifically for athletic wear or outdoor gear to protect the jacket’s features.

3. Proper Drying Techniques

Drying your Under Armour jacket properly is crucial to maintaining its performance and appearance. Improper drying can lead to fabric damage, shrinkage, or the loss of insulation.

Air Drying: The best way to dry your Under Armour jacket is by air drying. Lay it flat or hang it in a well-ventilated area, away from direct heat sources like radiators or sunlight. This will prevent the fabric from weakening or fading over time.
Tumble Drying: If the care instructions allow tumble drying, use a low heat setting. High heat can damage fabrics and affect the jacket’s water-resistant or insulating properties. Always ensure the jacket is thoroughly dry before storing it.

Tip: To preserve the jacket’s shape, avoid wringing it out, as this can stretch the fabric.

4. Reapply Water-Repellent Treatment

Many Under Armour jackets come with water-repellent treatments or coatings that protect you from rain and snow. Over time, these treatments can wear off due to regular washing and exposure to the elements. To maintain the jacket’s ability to repel water, it’s important to periodically reapply a water-repellent treatment.

Use a Water-Repellent Spray: Look for a spray or wash-in treatment specifically designed for performance fabrics. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.
Restore DWR (Durable Water Repellency): If your jacket’s water-repellent finish starts to fade, restoring it with a DWR treatment will help ensure that water beads off the jacket instead of soaking into the fabric.

Tip: Always treat the jacket when it begins to lose its water-repellent properties, especially if you use it in wet or rainy conditions frequently.

5. Store Your Jacket Properly

Proper storage is essential for extending the life of your Under Armour jacket. Storing it incorrectly can cause fabric distortion, wrinkles, or damage.

Hanging the Jacket: If the jacket is designed to be hung, make sure to use a wide, padded hanger to prevent any stretching or misshaping. If it’s a jacket that needs to maintain its structure, like a heavier coat, this is especially important.
Avoid Storing in Damp Places: Never store your jacket in a damp or humid environment, as this can cause mold and mildew growth. Always make sure the jacket is completely dry before putting it away.
Use Storage Bags for Long-Term Storage: For long-term storage, consider using a breathable garment bag to protect the jacket from dust and damage while allowing air circulation.

Tip: Avoid folding the jacket for long-term storage as this can cause permanent creases or affect the insulation.

6. Repair and Patch When Needed

Over time, your Under Armour jacket may encounter minor wear and tear, such as small tears, broken zippers, or worn seams. Taking care of these issues promptly can help prevent them from getting worse.

Repair Small Tears: If your jacket gets a small tear or hole, it’s important to repair it immediately. Use a fabric patch or sewing kit designed for outdoor wear to seal small rips. If the damage is more extensive, you might consider taking it to a professional for repairs.
Fix Zippers: Zipper malfunctions are common, but they can often be fixed with a little effort. Lubricating the zipper with a specialized zipper lubricant or even a graphite pencil can help it run more smoothly.

Tip: Always check the zippers, cuffs, and seams of your jacket regularly to catch any damage early.

7. Regularly Inspect and Clean the Lining

The lining of your jacket plays a crucial role in comfort, insulation, and moisture-wicking. Over time, dirt, sweat, and oils can build up inside the lining, reducing the jacket’s effectiveness. To maintain the jacket’s overall performance, it’s important to inspect and clean the lining regularly.

Wipe Down the Inside: If the jacket doesn’t require full washing, you can wipe the inside with a damp cloth to remove any buildup of sweat or oils.
Check for Odors: If your jacket has developed an odor, airing it out and using a mild fabric spray designed for performance gear can help freshen it up.

Tip: Clean the inside of the jacket as part of regular maintenance to avoid long-term damage or odor buildup.

Conclusion: Keep Your Under Armour Jacket in Peak Condition

By following these care and maintenance tips, you can ensure that your Under Armour jacket remains in top condition for years to come. Proper cleaning, drying, and storage are key to preserving the jacket’s appearance and performance. Whether you’re using your jacket for outdoor adventures or intense workouts, regular upkeep helps you get the most out of your investment and ensures your jacket continues to perform as it was designed to. Treat your Under Armour jacket with care, and it will continue to support you through any activity or weather condition with long-lasting durability.