Nikwax and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award: The Perfect Outdoor Partnership

For the last 12 years, Nikwax and the Duke of Edinburgh Award’s (DofE) have joined forces to help many hundreds of thousands of participants stay comfortable and dry on their DofE expeditions. Not only that, but every purchase of Nikwax products fuels the charity’s mission by funding the next generation of DofE participants – empowering them to push boundaries, acquire lifelong skills, and discover newfound confidence. This remarkable partnership is forging a path for the responsible and eco-conscious explorers of tomorrow!

The DofE: Empowering Young Adventurers
Founded in 1956, by the late Prince Philip, the DofE Award has since expanded to more than 140 countries.  Designed to inspire and challenge young people, this programme offers a great opportunity to develop new skills, take participants out of their comfort zone and reach their full potential through a series of outdoor and community-based activities.  With diversity in mind, the programme is made up of four core components: volunteering, physical fitness, skills development, and adventurous expeditions.  The end result not only being a Bronze, Silver, or Gold Award, but also valuable life skills and a deeper appreciation of nature and the great outdoors!

More recently, the DofE has embarked on ‘Youth Without Limits’, a powerful new strategy which champions inclusivity and accessibility for all.  It reaches out to those who may be marginalised in society or held back by disabilities – the programme means DofE can be available to everybody.

Nikwax: Protecting Nature, Preserving Adventure
Nikwax have been proud to play a part on the DofE journey.  Producing high-quality and environmentally friendly waterproofing and cleaning products for outdoor clothing and gear, it makes us a perfect partner for the DofE. 

Our products are designed to extend the life of your outdoor gear, keeping it performing as new for the long haul.  With reliable waterproofing, your gear remains protected and comfortable even in unpredictable weather. Additionally, by not having to purchase new items every year, you can reduce waste and save money, bonus!

The combination of our product range and longevity of our DofE partnership means together we are able to endure the most challenging adventures.

Nikwax and the DofE
We share common goals through our collaboration.  As well as nurturing a generation of responsible adventurers, Nikwax is committed to protecting the environment with use of recycled plastics, reducing and off-setting carbon emissions, as well as supporting environmental and social causes by donating 1% of our sales to charity.

Our partnership reinforces responsible exploration and environmental stewardship, demonstrating the importance of taking care of our wild isles with young adventurers witnessing first-hand the importance of preserving natural spaces for future generations. 

The future is in their hands
Together, the DofE and Nikwax empower young adventurers to embark on a journey of personal growth, leadership, and environmental stewardship.  Our planet can only benefit from a new generation of eco-conscious and adventure-driven explorers.

Viva the outdoors and all it has to offer!

To learn more about cleaning and caring for Expedition gear, visit:

General kit care advice
Sustainable kit care
Waterproofing and kit care poster