Gore-Tex® is an award-winning textile product that is a registered trademark of W.L. Gore & Associates, a company specializing in creative technologies. A particularly durable type of fabric, it is both waterproof and windproof and employs technology that is geared toward comfort as well. Fabrics made from this textile are used to construct a variety of outerwear products, from boots to gloves to winter coats.
There are several features to Gore-Tex® products that make them very popular in retail stores, especially those selling rugged outdoor wear, sporting goods, and work wear. The primary feature is guaranteed waterproofing. Gore, the company that manufactures it, makes the claim “Guaranteed to Keep You Dry®” of all its Gore-Tex® outerwear. The guarantee applies for the useable life of any garment made with this material.
The waterproof quality stems from its composition of semi-permeable membranes. The fabric has millions of microscopic holes poked into it that are small enough for water vapor molecules to escape but do not allow water to pass through. It is this technology, which allows outerwear to be both breathable and waterproof, that makes Gore-Tex® a favorite for many hunters, hikers, and outdoor workers.
Gore-Tex® products are available for men, women, and children, with footwear being the most popular product. There are a variety of styles and brands of footwear with this fabric construction and lining, including athletic shoes and hiking, hunting, and work boots. Other products include gloves, mittens, socks, pants, jackets, coats, and hats. Some products are specialty products, such as hunting and work gear, and many are not only comprised of waterproof Gore-Tex® but also insulated for added warmth to temperatures below freezing.
It’s easy to recognize a product made with Gore-Tex® — a consumer just needs to look for the black diamond-shaped tag with the company logo in gold lettering. People should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper cleaning and care to ensure the longest possible life of the apparel.
