The GORE-TEX® membrane is the heart of all GORE-TEX® products. It contains over 1.4 billion microscopic pores per square cm (9 billion per inch). These pores are 20,000 times smaller than a water droplet, but 700 times larger than a water vapor molecule, which makes the GORE-TEX® membrane completely waterproof from the outside, while allowing perspiration to escape from the inside. An oleophobic (or oil-hating) substance is integrated into the membrane, preventing the penetration of body oils and insect repellent that could otherwise affect the membrane. In order to meet the specific needs of each end use, W. L. Gore & Associates has developed different GORE-TEX® membranes and applies them as appropriate.
GORE-TEX® PACLITE® SHELL
The Gore-Tex® Paclite® product uses a protective layer on the membrane made from an oil-hating substance and carbon. This oil-hating, or oleophobic substance allows a water vapour to pass through, but is a physical barrier that prevents contamination from oil cosmetics, insect repellent and food substances which could otherwise affect the waterproof performance. Gore’s advanced processing techniques used to apply the oleophobic substance and to integrate the carbon allow the membrane to retain adequate durability. No separate lining is required in the item of clothing, which means that Gore-Tex® Paclite® clothing is lighter and smaller to pack away than clothing made of 2-layer or 3-layer laminates.
3-LAYER GORE-TEX® PRO SHELL
GORE-TEX® Pro Shell is the optimum solution for professional outerwear to use under extreme tough conditions. The 3-Layer construction comprises a specific high performance GORE-TEX® membrane, bonded together to a tough outer material and a specially developed robust inner lining. The result is an extremely rugged and durable laminate to meet the demands of outdoor professionals and serious enthusiasts.
2-LAYER GORE-TEX® PRO SHELL
The 2-Layer construction used for the GORE-TEX® Pro Shell is the solution in functional sports clothing for extended and extreme conditions. A specific GORE-TEX® membrane is laminated to the inside of the tough outer fabric. The inside of the membrane is protected by a seperate lining for better wearing comfort and versatility. Engineered with the most rugged, most breathable, durably waterproof and windproof fabrics, GORE-TEX® Pro Shells meet the demands of outdoor professionals and serious enthusiasts.
3-LAYER GORE-TEX® PERFORMANCE SHELL
The 3-Layer construction used for the GORE-TEX® Performance Shell is designed for a wide range of outdoor activities. A specific GORE-TEX® membrane is bonded to an outer material and an inner lining. GORE-TEX® Performance Shells provide breathable comfort and durably waterproof and windproof protection. Whether you are skiing, cycling, mountaineering, inline-skating or just walking, you can change the sport, but you never need to change your garment with the 3-layer GORE-TEX® Performance Shell.
GORE-TEX® SOFT SHELL
GORE-TEX® Soft Shells - Exciting garments for cold and damp conditions: versatile, comfortable and extremely soft. A specific GORE-TEX® membrane is bonded directly to the outer fabric and a fleecy liner on the inside. GORE-TEX® Soft Shells are designed for reduced layering and improved freedom of movement. They are durably waterproof, windproof and breathable.