Nikwax, Nikwacks, Nickwax, Nik Wacs… The Name in NZ That Keeps You Dry

Nikwax. Or is it Nikwacks? Nickwax? Nik Wacs? However you’ve found your way here, by spelling it right, half right, or wildly wrong, you’re in the right place to learn the story behind this little green bottle that’s become a big deal in the outdoors world.

It all started back in 1977 with a young British walker and climber named Nick Brown. Frustrated by how quickly his leather boots would wet out in the rain, Nick began mixing up his own waterproofing concoction in a coffee grinder at his parents’ kitchen table (maybe go for a cup of tea if you're planning a visit?). Nick wanted something that would keep water out but still let the leather breathe, so his feet wouldn’t stew on long treks.

Nick’s homemade brew was a revelation. It extended the life of his boots, made them perform better, and, unlike traditional beeswax treatments, didn’t make the leather stiff and heavy. Soon enough, his mates wanted some too. So did their mates. From that humble kitchen operation, Nicks Wax, or Nikwax Waterproofing, was born.

Pioneering water-based waterproofing

Nick was ahead of his time. While most waterproofing treatments of the time relied on smelly solvents, Nick wanted something safer for people and the environment. By the early 1980s, he’d developed the world’s first water-based waterproofing products. Easy to use at home, safe for the environment, and highly effective, Nikwax stood out in a market crowded with harsh chemical treatments.

Today, Nikwax is still run by Nick, who’s remained a passionate advocate for low-impact manufacturing and conservation. The company has never used aerosols or fluorocarbons, and has been carbon balanced since 1977, well before most brands were even talking about climate impact.

More than just leather boots

Nikwax’s range has grown far beyond the original leather waterproofing. Now you’ll find specialist treatments for waterproof clothing, tents, backpacks, down sleeping bags, and even wool and fleece. Their products clean, revitalise water repellency, and extend the life of outdoor gear, helping adventurers like you stay dry, warm, and comfortable for longer.

However you spell it, what matters is this: it works.

And behind it all is Nick Brown’s simple philosophy: look after your gear, and it’ll look after you.

PS: However you spell it, we’ve got you covered

Nikwax, Nikwacks, Nickwax, Nik Wax, or even Nick Wacks, we’ve seen it all. No worries if you landed here with a creative spelling. Whether you’re after Nikwacks waterproof, Nickwax cleaner, Nik wax for boots, Nick wacks spray, Nikwacks jacket wash or Nik wax tent proof, you’re in the right spot.

Look after your gear, and it’ll look after you. That’s the Nikwax way, no matter how you spell it.