Originally Posted by
corrado33
As far as I know, ripstop nylon doesn't require any tech spray to keep it waterproof
If ripstop nylon is the same as what I remember it to be "back in my day," it isn't expected to be waterproof at all. My backpacking sleeping bag was made of the stuff.
I've had waterproof garments wear out. Ones that I've used extensively for cycling wear out on the inside at the crotch and knees. The sprays don't completely restore the waterproofing, though maybe I could try a couple more coatings. Higher quality gear seems to last longer. It wouldn't shock me if super lightweight gear didn't last as long, but I don't know. Right now I have a rain jacket and pants from REI that have kept me dry for both cycling and hiking in pouring rain.