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Why Should the Outdoorsy Use GORE-TEX Products?

Rain, mud, and wind. The elements we have a good chance to be exposed to in every outdoor recreation. Weather can change immediately, when we pedal along a coast or simply run in the woods. A light drizzle can begin to fall, making us wet and prone to getting sick. Unless a GORE-TEX product wraps. Then, nothing matters. A shield protects us against them elements. But how?

A GORE-TEX jacket showing its waterproofness.

What is GORE-TEX and how does it work?

GORE-TEX is an extremely thin waterproof but also breathable membrane placed between outer fabric and inner lining of a product. Per centimeter, the membrane has over 1.4 million pores that is 20,000 times smaller than a water droplet. So, it doesn’t allow rain, mud, and snow to penetrate, however, lets perspiration escape all the same. 700 times bigger than a water vapor molecule, those pores offer breathabilty and, even, windproofness. Most air molecules can’t get through the complex structure of the extended synthetic polymer either. That is what GORE-TEX made of.

The GORE-TEX membrane.

The history of GORE-TEX

In 1959, an American entrepreneur Bill Gore started working on polymer polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). A decade later, his son, Bob Gore, accidentally discovered the membrane by rapidly stretching heated rods of PTFE. He observed that the new form of polymer had low water adsorption and good weathering properties and decided to use it to create durable outerwear. Since 1976, when the very first commercial orders received, GORE-TEX fabric has been dominating the outdoor wear industry.

Bob Gore, the inventor of GORE-TEX fabric.
A photo from gore-tex.com showing Bob Gore extending PTFE.

Product Range

Invention of such technology providing high performance for those who chase adventures outside is available from bottom to top today. GORE-TEX technology is integrated into a wide range of products. Shoes, jackets, pants, gloves, hats, and spacesuits. Yes, you read right. Astronauts for the first space shuttle mission in 1981 wore spacesuits out of GORE-TEX fabric. No matter what sports or activity you take part in, premium clothing option always appears.

A GORE-TEX logo on the sleeve of a jacket.

Why to choose GORE-TEX technology?

On the market, many of the companies manufacture water-repellent gear. Yet, that is not enough. There must be no air trapped inside that causes moisture and odor. Your jacket or shoes must breathe in and breathe out to prevent wetness. Otherwise, the layer that is impermeable to air molecules may trigger fungal infections. For example athlete’s foot, a medical condition in which the skin between your toes cracks.

In short, it was developed to give what the outdoorsy need. Keeping dry and warm despite weather and body temperature all through an exertion or pastime while out in nature.

What is on Amazon

Salomon Men’s Ultra 3 GTX

Merrel Women’s Moab 2 GTX

Marmot Women’s Minimalist GTX Jacket

Marmot Men’s Minimalist GTX Jacket

GORE WEAR Unisex GTX Cap

BURTON GTX Gloves Men’s

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