Gore-Tex or Goretex...any way you spell it, its fabulous!

Gore-Tex fabrics can be difficult to source. We don't often see them available, so we jumped at the chance of adding a few different styles of 3-layer laminate gore-tex to our outerwear fabric lineup.

Some of the Gore-tex rolls came from a well known brand that is known for high quality outerwear. The rolls did not have spec sheets provided, so the information we have for each color/style is based on what we could glean from the jackets we found online made by this manufacturer. 

Gore-Tex is not just one fabric, it is many!

We are often asked if we carry Gore-Tex. Gore is a brand (see history below if interested!) They make hundreds of types of fabrics and, like Polartec, dozens of styles within those categories. So if you are searching for a Gore-tex fabric similar to one you may have seen in a store, we have no idea if it is exactly like one we carry. This is why we always list weight and stretch in the specs tab on each fabric page. We also list the content when we know it.  If you are searching for a fabric, we recommend first asking in our Facebook Group for advice. When you ask, be clear about what your project is, what you will be using the garment for, and the climate. Often we have great suggestions and examples we can share...and they may be even better than you were hoping for!

What type of Gore-Tex do we have in stock?

We offer several choices of non-stretch 3 layer laminate. Some of these are similar to Polartec Neoshell non-stretch, and also some of the Nike shells we carry. 

We do have on Gore-tex laminate that appears to be a military run. It has a lot of lengthwise stretch and would be great for hiking or work pants among other things. It is discounted as we noticed some shading on the face of the fabric.

Details for each style will populate when you click on the color in the drop-down menu.

If you are interested in the history of Gore-tex, read on! 

Gore-Tex has an interesting history that traces back to the 1960s, and it has evolved significantly over the years. Here's a look at its origins and how it has changed over time:

The Birth of Gore-Tex:

• 1976: The product, which would later become known as Gore-Tex, was first introduced to the market. Initially, it was sold as a thin, porous membrane that could be bonded to fabrics to make them waterproof and breathable.
• The company originally used it for industrial applications, but it quickly gained attention in the outdoor and sportswear industries because of its remarkable performance in keeping wearers dry and comfortable during extreme activities.

The Growth of Gore-Tex:

• 1980s: Gore-Tex became widely known in the outdoor clothing market, especially for hiking, mountaineering, and skiing. The brand's reputation for high-performance waterproofing and breathability helped it become a sought-after material for outdoor gear.
• It was used for jackets, boots, gloves, and tents, offering athletes and outdoor enthusiasts a solution to stay dry in wet and challenging environments. Gore-Tex was first used in high-end outdoor gear, particularly jackets for mountaineers and other extreme athletes.

Innovations and Refinements Over the Years:

• 1989: Gore-Tex introduced a lighter-weight version of its membrane, which allowed the material to be used in more active pursuits, such as running and cycling.
• 1990s: The company continued to refine its materials and processes. It began creating Gore-Tex fabrics with additional layers for enhanced durability and comfort. This was an important step, as it helped Gore-Tex become even more versatile in various outdoor conditions.

Gore-Tex Goes Mainstream:

• As the brand became more recognized for its high-quality outdoor gear, it expanded beyond traditional mountaineering to more general outdoor activities, including urban use. Gore-Tex started being used in everyday fashion, with jackets, shoes, and even handbags made from the material.

Recent Innovations and Changes:

• 2000s: Gore-Tex developed new technologies to improve performance, such as Gore-Tex XCR (eXtended Comfort Range) for lighter and more breathable options.
• Gore-Tex Active (introduced in the 2010s) focused on ultra-light, breathable versions for high-performance athletes who needed maximum comfort and flexibility.
• Gore-Tex Pro (for professional outdoor athletes) became a heavy-duty option designed for more extreme conditions.
• Gore-Tex also began offering 3-layer laminate constructions that improved flexibility, comfort, and durability.

Sustainability and Future:

• In recent years, sustainability has become a key focus for Gore-Tex. The company has taken steps to make its materials more eco-friendly, such as introducing recycled fabrics and working to eliminate harmful chemicals from its manufacturing process.
• Gore-Tex Infinium and Gore-Tex Pro with recycled fabrics are some of the examples where the brand has focused on reducing environmental impact without compromising performance.

How Gore-Tex Has Changed:

1. Fabric Technology: The early version of Gore-Tex was relatively rigid and not as breathable. Over time, it has become more flexible, lighter, and more breathable, thanks to technological innovations like lighter laminates and improved layering systems.
2. Durability: Gore-Tex products used to be known for their limited durability in harsh conditions, but with developments in Gore-Tex Pro, the material became much more rugged, offering longer-lasting protection for extreme environments.
3. Sustainability Focus: Over the years, Gore-Tex has shifted toward more sustainable practices, reducing its carbon footprint and using eco-friendly materials to meet the growing demand for environmentally conscious products.
4. Expanding Uses: Originally, Gore-Tex was primarily used in outdoor gear, but its application has expanded to include fashion, casual clothing, and even home textiles like curtains and upholstery.

Gore-Tex has evolved from a groundbreaking discovery in the late 1960s into a staple of outdoor and performance clothing. Through innovation and a commitment to improving its technology and sustainability, it has maintained its status as the go-to material for weather-resistant apparel, allowing people to stay dry and comfortable in the harshest conditions.