Gore-tex Buying Guide (Active, Pro, Paclite, Infinium, Windstopper, etc.)

Materials evolve along with the activities we do in the mountains. The different types of GORE-TEX membranes are nothing more than the adaptation of garment technology to new needs. Increased waterproofness, breathability, lightness... in the end it all makes it possible to perform activities faster, more self-sufficient, safer or more comfortable. Since GORE-TEX was created, it has been one of the technologies that have revolutionised the clothing market. outdoor clothing.

What is GORE-TEX?

What we know as GORE-TEX is a membrane that some clothing and footwear have to make them waterproof. After more than 50 years working on refining this technology, it first appeared in 1976. This textile membrane is composed of polytetrafluoroethylene, also known as Teflon. The micropores that make up these membranes are 20,000 times smaller than a drop of water, preventing water from entering the garment. All Gore-Tex laminates are based on this ultra-thin ePTFE (expanded PTFE) membrane which is durably waterproof, windproof and breathable. Almost all major sportswear brands use this membrane in their products, provided they pay the company's licence fee. W.L. Gore & Associates.

Nowadays, it is the norm to resort to clothing that follows the three-layer system. An inner layer that dries sweat quickly, a middle layer that aims to keep the body warm, and an outer layer that prevents rain or snow from seeping in. GORE-TEX membrane is common in mid-layers, and almost obligatory in outer layers.. Midlayers are becoming more and more versatile, so you'll find a lot of midlayers with the membrane (e.g., a membrane that can be used as a barrier).GORE-TEX INFINIUM™.). Trends in outdoor clothing are changing, and the GORE-TEX membrane continues to evolve.

Types of GORE-TEX

The first thing we associate with GORE-TEX is waterproofing, but did you know that it has a range of waterproofing products? GORE-TEX INFINIUM™. (white label) that aims for high performance in drier conditions? This new range joins the Original GORE-TEX (black label), where the performance lies in waterproofness and breathability. When choosing a GORE-TEX garment you need to consider the activity you are going to do and the weather conditions.

Original GORE-TEX range, waterproof protection

This is the classic range, in which all garments will have the following features in common:

1. WATERPROOFINGto prevent our clothes from getting wet and losing body heat.
2. Optimum TRANSPARENCYto facilitate the evacuation of sweat and to prevent us from getting hot inside.
3. total WINDBREAKERSwhich ensures a layer of warm air between the skin and the clothing.

In addition and complemented by the different technologies, the garments will seek among other properties:

• LIGHTWEIGHT: Lightweight garments are easier to carry and wear. Both garments equipped with the Paclite as the active are designed for maximum lightness.
• RESISTANCE: The products GORE-TEX PRO guarantee the most durable protection, even under the most extreme conditions.
• WATER REPAIR TREATMENT: Jackets with water repellent treatment have the GORE® membrane as the outer surface, so that a light rain forms droplets and slides off.
• INSULATION: Some GORE-TEX garments have insulating material, so you'll stay warmer for longer in wintry conditions.

GORE-TEX "classic"

• The traditional. Protection from the elements, totally windproof and very breathable.

• It's a very versatile membrane that doesn't stand out in any particular area, but it works wonders in everything. It's a thin membrane, but it's robust, durable, windproof, and it's fully waterproof without losing breathability. It is a very useful membrane for all kinds of activities. All garments with this basic membrane are equipped with the welded seams with a special sewing tape; a very functional technique for the membrane to function properly.

• Two-layer garments are available in a wide variety of versatile designs. 3-layer GORE-TEX garments offer extra durability without adding bulk. Some garments include GORE-TEX Stretch Technology, with stretch materials in key areas, these garments allow for ease of movement and fit.

GORE-TEX PRO, for highly technical activities

• Very resistant, waterproofing even in torrential rain or the harshest snow conditions, extremely breathable (RET <6) and totally windproof. GORE-TEX PRO brings together the best of the features of other types.

• This membrane is designed for more technical activities, such as mountaineeringclimbing at high altitudes or ice climbing, long expeditions... The durability is the feature that stands out the most. Unlike the basic membrane, this one is more resistant, and has also been worked hard to make it more durable. lighter and more breathable.

• Exclusive design by 3 layers which uses high-strength membranes, and may be equipped with elastic features.

• Garments with technology GORE-TEX PRO stretch have integrated stretch laminates that give greater freedom of movement. Highly recommended in jackets for demanding mountain activities.

GORE-TEX PACLITE®, if you are looking for lightweight and compactness

• Extremely lightweight and compressible. They are waterproof (water column of 28,000 which makes them very waterproof), windproof and extremely breathable. The membrane is protected on the inside by a thin, durable film instead of a lining. To identify it we can look at the inside of the garment, which has a charcoal-coloured finish. It is also known as GORE-TEX 2.5 layers.

• Security against sudden changes in the weather. It can be carried everywhere and is easy to storewith resistance to bad weather and frequent use.

• For the most demanding GORE-TEX PACLITE® PLUS is scratch-resistant and very durable, while remaining lightweight and compact.

GORE-TEX ACTIVE, for highly aerobic activities

• Extremely breathable. Superlight. In three-layer solutions with increased softness and comfort in contact with the skin.

• GORE-TEX Active garments are designed to for highly aerobic activities that are done in a day, even in bad weather. Our sweating is going to be very high, so we look for a higher perspiration rate in the garment (around 20% more than the normal GORE-TEX membrane). RET <4 ). The aim with this membrane is to make the membrane thinner, and therefore lighter and more breathable. However, it is still waterproof (even if you sacrifice a little, 20,000 mm water column, almost twice as much as many waterproof jackets) and effective against wind. One of the activities where you'd appreciate such a jacket is in the trail running. Nobody likes to wear a jacket that is wet with sweat for a long time. Because this membrane is highly breathable, the sweat will dry more easily. However, all of these advantages mean that the membrane not so robustThis is a feature that works against durability. Jackets with this type of membrane are designed to be worn in a three-layer system. In other words, because they are so thin, they do not provide the necessary warmth, especially in winter, and you need to wear something inside to keep your body warm. Therefore, if you are a mountain runner, you try to carry as little weight as possible, and you think that less is more, look for clothing with the Active label.

• GORE-TEX ACTIVE SHAKEDRY™The GORE-TEX membrane is a more breathable and lighter while maintaining the unique water repellency provided by the pearl-effect outer shell. The design eliminates the outer fabric and converts the GORE-TEX membrane to the outer surface. One less layer makes these jackets the lightest and most packable jackets available.

GORE® C-Knit™.

This membrane has been used for garments that are considered intermediate or outer garments in the three-layer system. This lining is composed of a thin circular nylon fabric that can be slightly stretched. It can be laminated for the middle layers, or more robust for the outer layers. This membrane distinguishes itself from other membranes mainly by its softness. The thin membrane makes it very light and that it can glide over the underlying layers very easily and comfortably.

GORE-TEX FOOTWEAR

• With optimised breathability and protection from the elements to keep your feet dry.

• Technology GORE-TEX SURROUND®. guarantees maximum breathability thanks to a design (integral system with fully breathable uppers and side or sole vents) that channels heat and moisture away from the foot in all directions, including through the sole.

• In running shoes GORE-TEX INVISIBLE FIT facilitates fit and waterproofing.

GORE-TEX GLOVES

• In the field of gloves, GORE-TEX ensures that gloves are mackintoshesThe windproof, breathable and breathable fabrics keep your hands protected, mobile and comfortable.

• The gloves GORE-TEX Plus Warm looking for extra warmth. Warmer, more comfortable and more protected hands for longer. Equally windproof, breathable and waterproof.

GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ range, high performance in drier weather conditions

As I said before, this is the range that looks for high performance in "dry conditions". It is not waterproof, although the garments may have some protection. Lightweight jackets that block the wind. Warm, comfortable gloves that you won't have to take off. Boots and footwear with ultra-thin insulation.

• WINDBREAKERSWind can cause your body temperature to drop rapidly and make you feel unwell. This technology blocks the wind, GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ WINDSTOPPER®. It is common to see this membrane on garments softshell prepared for cold and windy conditions. However, garments with this membrane are also prepared to repel water.

• BREATHABILITYSweat vapour can escape through the protective membrane during high intensity activities.

• WATER REPELLENT TREATMENTWater-repellent treated jackets have the GORE® membrane as the outer surface, which makes drizzle and snow simply form slippery droplets. GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ EFFECT PEARL DURABLE.

• INSULATIONSome GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ jackets are highly insulated, and this is their essential property.

• GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ GLOVES: WINDSTOPPER®.. Completely windproof. STRETCH™.. Designed to be worn comfortably while performing the most disparate operations. Windproof and breathable.

• GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ FOOTWEAR with technology THERMIUM™. which provides thermal insulation around the toes.

READ ALSO:

• How to wash Gore-Tex.

*All purchase prices included in this article are current as of 14-04-2021.