A GORE-TEX membrane is a microporous structure that gives products excellent waterproof, breathable and windproof performance.
Products with a GORE-TEX membrane protect your feet in a comfortable and durable way.
What is GORE-TEX?
GORE-TEX is a membrane composed of a very thin layer of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene with more than 1.4 billion pores per cm².
But what are the advantages of GORE-TEX in the manufacture and use of safety footwear?
Waterproofing of the GORE-TEX® membrane
A wet fabric absorbs body heat. However, fabrics containing a GORE-TEX membrane are watertight, so they keep the body dry, allowing the wearer to enjoy the activity in complete comfort.
The membrane’s microscopic pores keep water out because it is 20,000 times smaller than a drop of water.
Products with a GORE-TEX membrane will not leak for the lifetime of the product, due to its durable waterproofing.
GORE-TEX membrane fabrics can withstand the water ingress pressure generated in adverse weather conditions and challenging applications. However, a product’s waterproof protection is not only dependent on the fabric, so new product models with GORE-TEX membranes must pass the brand’s laboratory tests, as it only allows the production of products that exceed its rigid performance standards.
The durable waterproof garment construction using GORE-TEX membranes prevents the loss of body heat, thus preventing water from entering the garment. This keeps the body dry and comfortable, even during extended use of the garments in extreme circumstances.
Breathability of the GORE-TEX® membrane
Fabrics with GORE-TEX membranes allow perspiration to wick away to prevent it from clumping on the skin, helping to reduce excess body heat.
Sweat simply passes through the membrane because its pores are 700 times larger than a molecule of water vapour. This makes the GORE-TEX membrane breathable.
Breathability is not about a fabric’s ability to let air through, but about its ability to allow sweat to pass through in the form of water vapour.
A breathable fabric must allow sweat to simply evaporate during intense activity.
When the body is active, the skin removes excess heat through perspiration. To prevent sweat from being retained on the skin and causing discomfort, the GORE-TEX membrane allows it to be transferred to the outside. The breathability keeps the skin drier and more comfortable, even in the most active situations.
GORE-TEX® Membrane Windproofing
Windproof garments retain body heat and perceived comfort.
Some fabrics that are considered windproof, such as microfibres, fleece and closed weave fabrics, allow wind to enter and do not eliminate the feeling of cold and discomfort.
What did you think of the GORE-TEX membrane? Let us know what you think.Remember! If you are looking for a strategic partner for the design, development and production of your high quality, tailor-made safety footwear to protect your workers from all occupational hazards or for distribution, GPI can help you.
