What is GORE-TEX fabric?
GORE-TEX is a special waterproof fabric made from a type of plastic called polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). It’s one of the first flexible waterproof fabrics invented, and it’s still very popular today for outdoor gear because it keeps water out while allowing sweat vapor to escape, which helps you stay dry and comfortable.
How GORE-TEX works?
(image source: Gore-tex)
During production, the PTFE fabric is stretched, creating millions of tiny holes per inch. These holes are too small for water droplets to get through, but they’re big enough for sweat vapor to pass through. This is what makes GORE-TEX waterproof yet breathable.
To keep working properly, GORE-TEX needs to be treated regularly with a special water-repelling spray called durable water repellent (DWR). Without this spray, the fabric can become less breathable and more prone to overheating.
History of GORE-TEX
GORE-TEX was invented in 1969 by accident when Bob Gore, the son of the company’s founder, accidentally stretched a heated rod of PTFE much further than expected. This created a porous material that was more than 70% air, which led to the development of GORE-TEX.
How is GORE-TEX fabric used?
(image source: Sewport)
GORE-TEX is primarily used in outdoor apparel and sportswear, but this fabric is also commonly used in accessories like gloves and shoes. Less commonly, GORE-TEX may even be used in industrial and medical applications.
Apparel
GORE-TEX is included in a wide variety of different types of outdoor apparel. Originally used exclusively in rain shells and winter jackets, this material is now commonly used in pants and lightweight cycling jackets as well. GORE-TEX apparel is designed to keep the wearer dry from external moisture while allowing sweat vapor to escape, providing breathable waterproof protection.
Accessories
The first GORE-TEX booties were developed in 1982, and W.L. Gore introduced its first gloves in 2003. Since the 1980s, GORE-TEX shoes have improved significantly, offering waterproof yet breathable footwear for outdoor activities. GORE-TEX is also used in backpacks, hats, and other outdoor accessories to provide weather protection while allowing moisture vapor transfer.
Industry
Beyond outdoor gear, GORE-TEX has found applications in various industries. It was included in space suits throughout the 1980s, and this material is used in a wide variety of medical applications including sutures and vascular grafts. The porosity of GORE-TEX allows bodily tissues to grow through it, making this inert material ideal for cardiovascular implants. Additionally, GORE-TEX is used to seal batteries and preserve ancient documents thanks to its waterproof yet breathable properties.
Other Uses
GORE-TEX’s unique combination of waterproofing and breathability has made it a versatile material with diverse applications. From protecting outdoor enthusiasts from the elements to enabling ground breaking medical devices, GORE-TEX continues to be a valuable fabric in multiple industries.
Conclusion
GORE-TEX remains an important and widely-used fabric in the outdoor industry due to its exceptional waterproofing and breathability properties. As one of the first fabrics to offer this combination of features, GORE-TEX has revolutionized outdoor gear and made it possible for people to stay dry and comfortable in even the wettest conditions. While more environmentally-friendly alternatives are being developed, GORE-TEX’s unique capabilities continue to make it an essential material for serious adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts.
