Hello, I'm an expert in textiles and outdoor gear, and I'm here to provide you with accurate information about the properties of GORE-TEX® fabrics.
GORE-TEX® is a brand of waterproof and breathable fabrics that are widely used in outdoor clothing and gear. The key to understanding the properties of GORE-TEX® is to look at the technology behind it. The fabric is made by laminating a thin layer of GORE-TEX® membrane to a face fabric. This membrane is what gives the fabric its unique properties.
Windproof is a term used to describe fabrics that can block wind from passing through. GORE-TEX® fabric is indeed
windproof. The GORE-TEX® membrane is designed to block wind while still allowing moisture vapor to escape from the inside, which is why it is also highly
breathable. This balance between wind protection and breathability is what makes GORE-TEX® a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
It's important to differentiate between
windproof and
waterproof. While GORE-TEX® is
waterproof, it is not designed to be completely water-resistant in the same way that a raincoat might be. The term
water-resistant typically refers to fabrics that can resist water penetration to some extent but are not fully waterproof. GORE-TEX® is waterproof, meaning it can keep water out under a wide range of conditions, but it is also designed to be breathable, allowing sweat and other moisture to escape.
The GORE-TEX® membrane is unique due to its pore size. It has over nine billion pores per square inch, each of which is 20,000 times smaller than a water droplet but 700 times larger than a water vapor molecule. This means that water cannot penetrate from the outside, but water vapor can escape from the inside, keeping you dry and comfortable.
Another product in the GORE family is WINDSTOPPER®. WINDSTOPPER® is a windproof, highly breathable, and water-resistant fabric. It is designed to provide wind protection without being fully waterproof. It is ideal for activities where wind protection is needed but full waterproofing is not required.
In summary, GORE-TEX® is a
windproof fabric that is also
highly breathable and
waterproof. It is not simply water-resistant like WINDSTOPPER®. The technology behind GORE-TEX® allows it to provide protection from the elements while still allowing for comfort and performance during outdoor activities.
read more >>