AirGlide Ultimate Shield Paint Sealant System Review

What We Say

What is it?

Airglide describe it as "a new, innovative, robust and durable surface protection system that is both silicon and Teflon free and was originally developed for the aviation industry to protect aircraft paintwork Airglide is now available for the auto industry. Once applied the Nano micron coating of Airglide Ultimate Shield will protect the vehicle from those irritating scratches as well as locking out UV rays, dirt and other contaminants that detract from the showroom shine of the vehicle. Just a quick wipe with a damp cloth and any surface dirt is gone. This unique surface protection system is a two-stage application process that bonds with the paint at Nano level by polymer cross linking, allowing the protective coating to flex without cracking or crazing."

The cost of the kit comes in at around £50 which comes in a nicely packaged box and contains 3 microfiber clothes, and applicators, step 1 and step 2 bottles, an air freshener and a window sticker. We get the feeling the product is going to be targeted more towards detailers or detailer enthusiasts rather than your average joe.

How we tested it?

Following the manufacturer's instructions, we set about applying the complete Airglide kit. Prior to application we ensured the paintwork surface was clean and used a panel wipe to completely cleanse the surface of any oils and grease. Airglide claim, depending on conditions, that the product should last over 5 years, so we can't yet comment on durability but we'll come back regularly with updates. At this stage we are looking more at the application, initial protection qualities and ease of use.

We Liked:

• Airglide do offer an interesting guarantee; that if it is applied by Airglide or an Airglide accredited detailer, they will reapply the product for free during that period if the customer is unhappy with it which is a very appealing safety net.
• Very impressive beading and sheeting of water. Car was dry to the touch after open hosing.
• Convenience of a complete kit
• Straight forward and easy to apply with clear instructions for application of each stage.

We Didn't Like:

• The provided microfiber cloths feel coarse and may not be safe for sensitive paintwork finishes. We always prefer to use high GSM towels.
• Instructions are a little vague regarding cure times once applied and should go into more depth for preparation beforehand.

Overall

Early impressions of Airglide are positive. We particularly like the fact it comes as a complete kit and the initial impressions of the protection are very alike ceramic coatings in the displacement of water. The real test for the product will be durability, as a professional detailer, all long term coatings applied by ourselves take several hours to effectively apply and up to 24 hours to cure fully for weather exposure before lasting up to 3-5 years. More clarity is needed in the curing area from Airglide as well as higher quality application microfibers. We also cringe at the "just a quick wipe with a damp cloth and the dirt is gone". As paint correctors, this is the type of approach that will lead to swirling and marring of a finish or coating. There is definite potential for Airglide, we just feel a few tweaks in the application guide and clear target market are needed.