GORE-TEX - History, technology, and application in sneakers and clothing
Gore-Tex is known worldwide and, with its technology, has redefined the history of clothing materials. Today, it is used in outdoor clothing and sneakers. Even trendy streetwear labels have discovered the legendary material.
Gore-Tex works on the same principle as human skin. The wafer-thin Gore-Tex membrane with billions of micro-fine pores allows body moisture to escape through water steam. Water, wind, and moisture cannot penetrate. The body remains warm, dry, and efficient.
GORE-TEX - ORIGIN AND INVENTION
Gore-Tex is a revolutionary membrane technology that was invented in 1969 by Wilbert L. Gore and his son Robert W. Gore. The company W. L. Gore & Associates was founded in 1958 and originally worked with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), better known as Teflon. Using a special stretching process, Robert Gore discovered that the material takes on a microporous structure that is both waterproof and breathable. This discovery led to the development of Gore-Tex, a technology that revolutionized outdoor clothing.
GORE-TEX - TECHNOLOGY EXPLAINED SIMPLY
The Gore-Tex membrane consists of billions of tiny pores, 20,000 times smaller than a drop of water but 700 times larger than a water vapor molecule. These pores keep water out while allowing perspiration to escape as water steam. Thus, Gore-Tex products are completely waterproof, windproof, and breathable—ideal for outdoor activities and changeable weather conditions.
GORE-TEX IN SNEAKERS AND CLOTHING
Many brands such as Nike, adidas, New Balance and Salomon integrate Gore-Tex into their sneakers to offer weatherproof footwear for fall and winter. In clothing, Gore-Tex is mainly found in jackets, pants, and gloves for outdoor sports such as hiking, trekking, or skiing. Thanks to this technology, feet, and body stay dry even in rain or snow without breaking a sweat.
How does Gore-Tex work?
Gore-Tex is a waterproof, breathable membrane made of ePTFE with microscopically small pores. These pores keep water out but allow perspiration to escape. An additional protective layer improves durability. Gore-Tex is laminated and sealed with fabrics, making it ideal for outdoor clothing.
What does Gore-Tex mean in sneakers?
Gore-Tex in footwear means waterproof but breathable properties. The membrane prevents water from penetrating but allows perspiration to escape, keeping feet dry. Ideal for outdoor activities, Gore-Tex ensures comfort in rain, snow, and moisture without compromising breathability and comfort.
How do you care for Gore-Tex shoes?
Gore-Tex shoes should be cleaned regularly with water and mild soap. Remove dirt with a brush, then allow to air dry. Do not use direct heat. Waterproofing spray maintains the waterproofness. Keep inner material dry, and clean insoles separately to preserve function and longevity.
How do you wash Gore-Tex clothing?
Wash Gore-Tex clothing at 30-40°C with a mild liquid detergent, without fabric softener or bleach. Use a gentle wash cycle and rinse thoroughly. Then tumble dry at a low temperature or iron. Impregnate regularly to maintain the water-repellent function. Do not dry clean.
