What is GORE-TEX? Is It WORTH it?

In this article we are going to discuss what GORE-TEX is and what it is used for. At the end I am going to share my personal experience using GORE-TEX technology.

As a background, I have used many GORE-TEX containing products such as the Hoka Kaha 2 GTX, Hoka Anacapa 2 GTX, Salomon X 4 Ultra, and much more. To say I have a lot of experience with GORE-TEX is an understatement. 

What is GORE-TEX? 

Bob Gore discovered the material GORE-TEX, also known as polytetrafluoroethylene, in 1969 through his innovative stretching technique of PTFE. The Gore family contributions were pivotal in the development of GORE-TEX fabric , as their research and experimentation led to the creation of this revolutionary waterproof material.

Each square inch of the membrane contains about 9 million pores; however, the pores are so much smaller than a droplet of water that they prevent water from entering.

The membrane itself is approximately 0.01 mm thick. The membrane is also breathable, allowing vapors to leave the material itself. GORE-TEX fabric is perfect for outdoor gear such as the Salomon X 4 Ultra as it keeps the gear waterproof but also breathable at the same time.

How does the GORE-TEX membrane work?

Creating material that is waterproof but also allows sweat or vapor to escape can be pretty difficult to assemble. GORE-TEX fabric, known for its intricate production process, combines waterproofing and breathability properties.

Polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) forms the GORE-TEX membrane itself. The outer layer is sprayed with durable water repellent (DWR). Since each square in the membrane contains about 9 million pores, each is about 20,000 times smaller than each drop of water; therefore, the water cannot pass through.

However, the pores are 700 times smaller than a molecule of vapor, AKA sweat, may pass through the membrane, allowing the material to be breathable. Typically, two slabs form the main body of GORE-TEX. Sandwiching these together allows the bonds to become even stronger.

Which brands make products using GORE-TEX?

Several outdoor products are available with GORE-TEX. Many popular brands use GORE-TEX from Hoka, Berghaus Mountain Equipment, ECCO, Merrell etc.

Are There Different Types Of GORE-TEX Layers?

GORE-TEX fabrics encompass a range of proprietary materials designed for waterproof and breathable performance, including GORE-TEX Pro, Active, and Paclite, each tailored for specific uses and conditions.

The 2-layer GORE-TEX is a lightweight, two-layer design consisting of a GORE-TEX membrane and outer fabric. This design is ideal for warm weather activities or lightweight applications , such as hiking or cycling.

The three-layer design, featuring a GORE-TEX membrane, a soft-faced inside lining, and a more robust outer material, is commonly used in chilly sports equipment, think of skiing or snowboarding. The “Z-liner” design, with an inner layer free-floating, is ideal for winter outerwear requiring more insulation between the inner layer and membrane.

What types of GORE-TEX Products are there?

Pac-Lite

There are many different types of GORE-TEX out there. Starting with GORE-TEX Paclite, this lightweight and flexible fabric technology is made out of a two-layer membrane.

It eliminates the need for a lining, reducing weight and enhancing durability, making it ideal for portable all-weather protection . It’s lighter than other GORE-TEX models but less rainproof. Think of outdoor clothing that needs durable waterproof fabric.

Standard GORE-TEX

Most waterproof outdoor gear uses the standard GORE-TEX. This is not as breathable as the GORE-TEX Active or as durable as the GORE-TEX Pro, but it definitely gets the job done. The standard GORE-TEX has durable waterproofing technology that not only is highly breathable but guaranteed to keep you dry.

GORE-TEX Pro

The Gortex Pro is for more professional outdoor enthusiasts. The Gortex Pro, true to its name, excels in extreme conditions, boasting enhanced breathability and durability.

It uses macro grid backer technology, which increases breathability while lowering the weight. This material clearly comes at an increased cost.

GORE-TEX Active

GORE-TEX Active aims to be the lightest GORE-TEX material available. Designed for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy running or cycling, this gear is the lightest available.

The GORE-TEX Active boasts maximum breathability but is on the lower end of durability. This is also an excellent choice for humid weather conditions.

What types products are made using GORE-TEX Fabric?

Jackets: Many outdoor jackets, such as those used for hiking, use Gore-Tex technology. Since rain jackets typically aim to be more lightweight, many of them utilize GORE-TEX Active technology.

Hiking Boots: Hikers use hiking boots, such as the Salomon Quest 4. This provides a strong covering and enhances breathability and well-being.

It is completely waterproof. GORE-TEX footwear has advanced technology and a rich history, offering superior waterproofing and breathability. GORE-TEX shoes have evolved significantly since the 1980s, integrating into various outdoor accessories.

Additionally, GORE-TEX Surround technology emphasizes breathability while still offering considerable waterproofing features.

Some consumers express dissatisfaction with the breathability of hiking boots, citing the presence of additional leather in most of them. There is obviously a trade-off here between comfort and water resistance.

Hats: Many cycling hats and beanies are made from GORE-TEX technology, as most cyclists experience rain and breathability issues. This represents a new development in the hat market.

Gloves: Many gloves, especially those used in the winter, use GORE-TEX technology. GORE-TEX gloves are popular with skiers and snowboarders due to their waterproof and breathable features, maintaining warmth and dryness under harsh conditions.

My experience with GORE-TEX

I've tested many hiking boots with GORE-TEX technology. I have to say the claims of waterproofness live up to the hype. Obviously, submerging your hiking boots in a full river will still cause water to leak into your boots. However, using these on the trails, as I have while in wet mud or crossing over creeks, allows my feet to stay dry and breathable.

Many users of GORE-TEX , especially in the hiking boot world, have issues with breathability. I must admit that using GORE-TEX reduces breathability compared to a non- GORE-TEX membrane. However, at the cost of having waterproofness in your boots, it is worth the reduced breathability, in my opinion.

Other products, like the , use special waterproof membranes. I must say the Merrell Moab 3 is better in terms of breathability as compared to GORE-TEX products. However, the waterproofness is about the same or less.

GORE-TEX membranes are very durable in my experience. I have hiked in very trecherous conditions anywhere from light rain, wind, heavy rain, snow, and any other bad weather you can think of. The GORE-TEX membrane has always kept me dry while allowing sweat to leave.

The outer layer of GORE-TEX always hold up after years of use. I can adamantly say that GORE-TEX is guaranteed to keep working for years.

Also, all hiking boot that boast GTX technology are made from different materials. Therefore, some are more breathable than others. As an example, The are less breathable than the Hoka Anacapa because the Anacapa are made with more lightweight materials and less leather. 

Is GORE-TEX worth it?

As an avid outdoorsman with many years of experience hiking and doing outdoor activities, I must say the GORE-TEX technology has been a saving grace for me at times.

I found myself in sticky wet mud or treacherous slippery surfaces, and the GORE-TEX technology has allowed my boots and equipment to stay comfortable and dry. While not perfect, the technology provides waterproofing. At the end of the day, this material is worth the price to me.

Frequently asked Questions

What is so special about GORE-TEX?

GORE-TEX is a waterproofing membrane that ALSO allows breathability. It is an oxymoron in the outdoors world and boasts waterproofness on the outside while allowing vapors or sweat to leave the material.

Is GORE-TEX 100% waterproof?

Yes, all GORE-TEX products are made to be waterproof.

What are the disadvantages of GORE-TEX?

Many users complain of the breathability of GTX technology. While it does not reduce breathability by a lot, it can be cumbersome to some users. Also, GORE-TEX comes at an increased cost for the product. 

What is GORE-TEX made of?

GORE-TEX membrane is made from expanded polytetrafluoroethylene, which makes it water resistant.

Is GORE-TEX toxic to wear?

No, GORE-TEX is not known to be toxic.

Adventure Awaits,

Tyler