Gore-Tex is a well-known trademarked brand from the Gore company, registered in the United States. This type of fabric is waterproof and breathable. While Gore-Tex is not the only waterproof fabric available -several other brands like eVent and H2No are also known- Gore-Tex is particularly prominent. Gore-Tex isn’t a simple fabric; it comprises two or three layers bonded together. This fabric is available in several different models and used in various products such as jackets, pants, and shoes.
Gore-Tex fabric usually has three layers, and sometimes two. The outermost layer, the “face fabric,” protects the main membrane. The face fabric is typically made of nylon or polyester.
The middle and most important layer of Gore-Tex is the waterproof and windproof membrane. This layer is always present in Gore-Tex fabric and is made of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), also known as Teflon. This material is now often referred to as expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE). This layer contains tiny pores that prevent water from penetrating from the outside, yet are large enough to allow sweat vapor to pass from the inside out.
The innermost layer of Gore-Tex is the lining fabric. This layer is sometimes omitted, depending on the model and intended use of the product. Like the face fabric, the lining protects the main membrane from damage. These layers can be made from nylon or polyester and can be woven or knitted. In a future post, I will discuss the different types of Gore-Tex fabrics and provide information on how to use and care for them.
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