In our first post in our new series of “ask the experts”, we’re answering common questions we get from customers relating to our product range, starting with breathable technology material.. First up: What is Gore-Tex and why is it any good?

Gore-tex is a waterproof breathable material best known for it’s use in activity outdoor clothing. The reason being that there is always a demand for waterproof products that are also breathable to take away sweat, which if trapped, could result in hypothermia for the wearer.

Optimal conditions for it are in hot, dry air conditions and also in cool wet weather when not excerising too much. The waterproof layer is built from DWR (Durable Water Repellent) treatment which lies on the surface of the fabric.

While it’s the most popular and well known brand, it does have both it’s advocates and opponents. A common complaint is that it’s not truly breathable and thus can only pass out a limited amount of sweat vapour. Alternatives have actually come from the US Military and focus around a material known as eVent which provides up to four times as much moisture transfer as goretex’s premium XCR fabric.

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