It goes without saying that GORE-TEX technology has revolutionised the way that we see and understand wet weather protection in the outdoor market. And with Gore extending their offering, providing different innovations like GORE-TEX ACTIVE and GORE-TEX PRO there now appears to be a technical fabric for every outdoor user.
Yet despite its success, the complexity of Gore’s fabric range can often leave you perplexed and unsure of which is best suited to your activity. This guide looks at the three main Gore fabrics used in outdoor gear to give you a better understand of each and how they should be used.
What is GORE-TEX?
Introduced in 1978, GORE-TEX is a waterproof and breathable fabric membrane made up of billions of microscopic pores which do not allow water droplets to penetrate the fabric but do allow water vapour molecules to pass through. The three main Gore fabric technologies use similar components but differ in construction to focus on weather protection, breathability or durability depending on the intended activity.
‘Everyday Versatility’
Standard GORE-TEX is common in outdoor product which will see constant use during low to mid-level activities for one or more days in varying weather conditions including rain and snow.
Breathability + + +
Ruggedness + + +
Recommended activity Hiking / Trekking / Skiing / Freeriding
‘Fast Pace, High Intensity’
A concentration on breathability separates GORE-TEX ACTIVE from the original fabric, making it a better choice for fast-paced activities like skiing, running and mountain biking. Designed to perform well at a high aerobic activity level in a single session, durability is sacrificed slightly to guarantee efficient perspiration in cool, mixed weather.
Breathability + + + + +
Ruggedness + +
Recommended activity Ski Touring / Mountain Running / Mountain Biking
‘Engineered for the Extreme’
The point of difference with GORE-TEX PRO is a direct focus on durability, delivering a fabric which can meet the demands of an intense activity level across multiple days or weeks in extreme rain, snow and ice. Placed in rugged mountain shells and dynamic ski jackets, GORE-TEX PRO still offers a good level of breathability to support exertion in demanding environments.
Breathability + + + +
Ruggedness + + + + +
Recommended activity Mountaineering / Freeriding / Ski Mountaineering
