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Whether on shoes, jackets or gloves - the name GORE-TEX keeps coming up. But what's behind this technology, which is used in so many outdoor products of different brands?
GUARANTEED TO KEEP YOU DRYTM
Waterproof, windproof and breathable - these are the three most important characteristics that the original GORE-TEX product range stands for. The highlight behind these technologies is the special GORE-TEX membrane. With pores that are larger than water vapour molecules but smaller than water droplets, it allows perspiration to escape unhindered, but prevents water or snow from penetrating. The membrane was developed in the 1970s by US chemist Robert W. Gore, after whom the technology was finally named.
Whether it's raining in the city or a thunderstorm in the mountains, a product with a GORE-TEX membrane is suitable for all activities, as it is permanently waterproof and windproof and breathable for a comfortable wear. This keeps the body dry and warm both inside and out.
INFINIUMTM - Versatile comfort
With GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ products, on the other hand, comfort and function are more important than waterproofing. These products are perfect for warm days, when light rain can fall. Stylish and flexible during the day is the motto here. This technology is found primarily in light, water-repellent jackets, shoes and gloves.
Other technologies
GORE-TEX PACLITE® technology offers products that are extremely light and can be packed very small. A special two-layer laminate construction firmly bonds the special GORE-TEX membrane to the outer material, making the garment permanently waterproof, windproof and breathable. A thin protective layer on the inside means that a lining is no longer necessary.
Gore Fabrics also uses a PFC-free DWR impregnation (Durable Water Repellency). By 2020, the ecologically questionable PFCs in the durable water repellent impregnations are to be replaced by 85 percent by the end of 2023 - naturally without compromising on durability and performance.
Quality tests
To ensure that the customer can rely on GORE-TEX technologies, the products are subjected to stringent functional tests in various procedures. These range from material and system tests in the laboratory to performance tests with test persons. Finally, before being launched on the market, every product undergoes a practical test, during which the products are worn and evaluated by athletes and experts.