Nikwax
Nikwax was started by Nick Brown when he used to go walking every year in Scotland, and found the available proofing products all wanting. So he invented his own wax - hence the name Nick's Wax.
He wanted a wax which would waterproof his boots but not soften the leather. The non-softening attribute was important for maintaining the support provided by the boots.
The First Water-based Waterproofing Wax is Born
At the age of 22 he made the first commercial version of Nikwax in a flat in London.
In 1983 he invented a water-based reproofer which would not need any harmful or flammable solvents. Consequently, Nikwax became the first company in the world to produce a range of water-based products for waterproofing clothing and footwear.
Today, Nikwax is an internationally famous brand, and the company has won the Queen's Award for Export three times. Their products are easy to use, environmentally friendly and highly effective.