The updated Gore-Tex Active fabric delivers the waterproof and windproof performance of a hard shell with the next-to-skin comfort of a soft shell.
Writer: Thomas J. Ryan
Doubling down on the higher-intensity activities trend, W.L. Gore & Associates unveiled its newest version of Gore-Tex Active fabric, along with a new paradigm in weather-protective running shoes, Gore Invisible Fit.
First launched in 2011, Gore-Tex Active fabrics are built for extreme breathability and are ideal for highly aerobic, done-in-a-day activities. The new Gore-Tex Active fabric significantly improves comfort and durability over the current version of 3-Layer Active, while reducing weight by 20 percent.
Gore said the updated Active delivers the waterproof and windproof performance of a hard shell with the next-to-skin comfort of a soft shell. A new combination of face fabrics, membrane construction and backers are each assessed individually to improve collective performance.
“At this level, it’s really about the combination of materials, the properties of those materials, and how they interact together to make the fabric perform better as a whole,” said Johannes Ebert, product specialist at Gore who worked on the development of Active. “In this case, making the fabric and membrane combination lighter, softer and more supple also helps increase the overall performance in areas like breathability and durability. So you’re not only getting fabric that feels more comfortable to wear; the same thing that makes it feel better is also part of what helps it perform better and last longer.”
The collection of fabrics, arriving at retail in Spring 2018, weighs in between 65 and 130 g/m², with the 65-gram fabric being the lightest 3-Layer waterproof-breathable construction ever offered by Gore. Garments weigh potentially less than 200 grams with very small packed volume.
Launching for Fall 2017 and expanding with additional manufacturer partners for Spring 2018, Gore Invisible Fit technology is a new way for footwear manufacturers to integrate a protective Gore-Tex fabric/lining/laminate in running shoes. The Gore-Tex membrane is engineered to directly bond to a variety of athletic footwear uppers. By matching the membrane to the footwear upper material, wrinkles and folds are eliminated, reducing pressure points and supporting a true to size forefoot area. Reduced weight, less water pick-up, and faster drying times are among the other benefits of the technology.
Based on Gore’s latest consumer surveys, 65 percent of runners run in wet, rain or snow conditions, while 75 percent of runners run in colder weather.Gore Invisible Fit promises to offer complete protection in inclement weather but with the similar fit and feel of non-protective running shoes.
“We did our research, and runners want to pursue their passion for running, despite even the harshest conditions,” said Kirk Christensen, global product specialist for the Outdoor Athlete for the Gore Fabrics division. “The feedback we are getting from everyone who has used the product is incredible. Testers who put it on say, ‘Based on the fit I was surprised this was a waterproof, breathable shoe. I never thought a protective shoe could feel this good.’ “
Gore will highlight both technologies, along with other recent fabric and footwear innovations, at Booth #33039 at the upcoming Outdoor Retailer show, July 26-29, in Salt Lake City.
Other innovations being showcased at the show include expanding availability of Gore-Tex Shakedry, a waterproof fabric built for runners and cyclists, and the lightest, most breathable Gore-Tex fabric created to date. Gore will also feature the expanding consumer availability of the newest iteration of Gore-Tex Surround footwear technology. This latest version features openings in the side of the sole, visibly demonstrating the unique underfoot air-flow channels that enable 360-degree breathability.
Photos courtesy W.L. Gore
