Top 10 Companies in the Durable Water Repellent for Fabrics Industry (2026): Market Leaders Innovating Water-Resistant Textiles

In Business Insights
February 16, 2026


The Global Durable Water Repellent for Fabrics Market was valued at USD 882 Million in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 1403 Million by 2034, growing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7.0% during the forecast period (2025-2034). This growth is fueled by the rising demand for high-performance outdoor apparel, expansion into technical workwear, and the accelerating shift toward sustainable, fluorine-free (C0) water repellent technologies driven by environmental regulations and consumer consciousness.

As the textile industry undergoes a profound transformation toward greater functionality and ecological responsibility, the focus turns to the chemical innovators developing the coatings that keep us dry. In this blog, we profile the Top 10 Companies in the Durable Water Repellent for Fabrics Industry—a blend of global chemical titans and specialized formulators shaping the future of performance and protective textiles.


🔟 1. DAIKIN Industries, Ltd.

Headquarters: Osaka, Japan
Key Offering: Fluorine-based DWR (C6), UNIDYNE® series

DAIKIN is a global leader in fluorochemicals and a major supplier of high-performance water repellents. Its UNIDYNE® series is widely used in outdoor gear, workwear, and fashion for its exceptional oil and water repellency. The company is actively investing in developing lower environmental impact C6 chemistry and exploring fluorine-free alternatives.

Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Development of C6 fluorocarbon technologies with reduced environmental impact

  • R&D focus on high-performance, PFC-free solutions

  • Commitment to sustainable manufacturing processes

Download FREE Sample Report: Durable Water Repellent for Fabrics Market – View in Detailed Research Report


9️⃣ 2. Huntsman Corporation

Headquarters: The Woodlands, Texas, USA
Key Offering: PHOBOTEX® series (Fluorinated & Fluorine-free), TERASIL® dyes

Huntsman’s Textile Effects division is a powerhouse in specialty chemicals, offering a comprehensive portfolio of DWR finishes. The PHOBOTEX range includes both legacy fluorocarbon options and newer, robust fluorine-free technologies designed to meet stringent brand sustainability standards without sacrificing performance.

Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Expansion of high-performance fluorine-free PHOBOTEX ZELAN™ and RUCOBACK® products

  • Integration of DWR solutions with other functional finishes for enhanced sustainability


8️⃣ 3. AGC Chemicals

Headquarters: Tokyo, Japan
Key Offering: AsahiGuard® E-Series (C6 Fluoropolymers)

AGC is a key global player, renowned for its AsahiGuard® water and oil repellents. The company focuses on C6 chemistry, which offers a more favorable environmental profile than older C8 products. AGC serves a broad spectrum of the textile market, from luxury fashion to demanding technical applications.

Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Leadership in C6 fluoro-technology as a transitional solution

  • Investment in R&D for next-generation, eco-friendly repellents


7️⃣ 4. Archroma

Headquarters: Reinach, Switzerland
Key Offering: Smartrepel® Hydro (PFC-free), ARIDOR® (Fluorinated)

Archroma is at the forefront of the sustainable DWR movement. Its innovative Smartrepel® Hydro series is a leading PFC-free solution that provides durable water repellency while addressing environmental concerns. Archroma works closely with major brands to create customized, high-performance finishes.

Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Pioneering high-performance PFC-free solutions like Smartrepel® Hydro

  • The “EarthColors” and “Safe Edge” initiatives promoting sustainable chemistry

Download FREE Sample Report: Durable Water Repellent for Fabrics Market – View in Detailed Research Report


6️⃣ 5. Rudolf GmbH

Headquarters: Geretsried, Germany
Key Offering: RUCO-DRY ECK (PFC-free), Bionic-Finish® ECO

Rudolf GmbH is a family-owned specialty chemical company with a strong reputation for innovation in textile finishing. Its portfolio includes a wide array of DWR technologies, with a significant emphasis on high-performing, biodegradable, and PFC-free solutions under its RUCO-DRY and Bionic-Finish® brands.

Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Advanced biodegradable and PFC-free proprietary technologies

  • Strong focus on circular economy principles in product development


5️⃣ 6. NICCA Chemical Co., Ltd.

Headquarters: Fukui, Japan
Key Offering: FULCUT® series (Fluorinated & Non-Fluorinated)

NICCA Chemical is a prominent Japanese supplier with a strong presence across Asia. The company’s FULCUT® series offers a range of water repellent solutions, including both fluorinated and non-fluorinated options. NICCA is known for its technical expertise and reliable performance in diverse textile applications.

Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Development of non-fluorinated repellents with enhanced durability

  • Adherence to international environmental and safety standards (Bluesign®, OEKO-TEX®)


4️⃣ 7. DyStar Group

Headquarters: Singapore
Key Offering: Evo® finishes, C6 fluorocarbon repellents

DyStar is a leading integrated solution provider for the textile industry. Its product portfolio includes a variety of DWR finishes that complement its extensive range of dyes and chemicals. DyStar emphasizes creating sustainable value through products that meet ecolabel requirements and reduce the environmental footprint of textile production.

Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Focus on solutions compliant with key ecolabels (e.g., bluesign®)

  • Sustainability-driven product development and lifecycle assessment


3️⃣ 8. Zschimmer & Schwarz

Headquarters: Lahnstein, Germany
Key Offering: AKOTOP® (Fluorine-free), C6 fluorocarbon finishes

This German chemical company offers a diverse range of specialties, including the AKOTOP® line of fabric finishes. Zschimmer & Schwarz provides effective fluorine-free and C6-based DWR solutions, catering to the European market’s high standards for performance and environmental compliance.

Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Development of high-quality PFC-free alternatives for various applications

  • Commitment to responsible product stewardship


2️⃣ 9. HeiQ Materials AG

Headquarters: Zürich, Switzerland
Key Offering: HeiQ Eco Dry (PFC-free), HeiQ Smart Temp

HeiQ is a specialty chemicals innovator known for bringing high-tech solutions to the textile market. HeiQ Eco Dry is a notable PFC-free DWR that combines water repellency with breathability. The company’s strength lies in its agile R&D and partnerships with leading textile brands.

Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Innovation in bio-based and high-performance PFC-free DWRs

  • Focus on measurable sustainability benefits and transparent communication


1️⃣ 10. Pulcra Chemicals GmbH

Headquarters: Geretsried, Germany
Key Offering: Fluorinated and non-fluorinated softeners and repellents

Pulcra Chemicals, part of the same group as Rudolf GmbH, specializes in textile auxiliaries, including softening and water-repellent agents. The company provides tailored solutions for denim, technical textiles, and apparel, with a growing emphasis on environmentally sound chemistries.

Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Development of eco-friendly specialty chemicals for textile finishing

  • Focus on reducing the environmental impact of textile processing

Read Full Report: Durable Water Repellent for Fabrics Market – View in Detailed Research Report


🌍 Outlook: The Future of Water Repellent Fabrics Is Sustainable and High-Tech

The durable water repellent market is experiencing a fundamental evolution. While fluorochemicals still hold a significant share due to their unmatched performance, the industry is channeling massive investments into eco-friendly alternatives, bio-based chemistries, and nanotechnology to meet the dual demands of functionality and planetary health.

📈 Key Trends Shaping the Market:

  • Rapid expansion of PFC-free DWR capacity and performance in North America and Europe

  • Regulatory push for PFAS phase-outs and stricter chemical management (e.g., EU REACH)

  • Integration of smart functionalities like temperature regulation and odor control with water repellency

  • Brand-manufacturer collaborations to develop proprietary, sustainable DWR solutions

Read Full Report: Durable Water Repellent for Fabrics Market – View in Detailed Research Report

The companies listed above are not only protecting textiles from the elements—they’re pioneering the sustainable transformation of the entire fabric finishing industry.