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Product Technologies

Gore-Tex® for Outerwear

Technology Overview

Gore-Tex® for Outerwear

The North Face® partners with Gore-Tex® to deliver some of the planet’s greatest waterproof, windproof, and breathable protection from the elements

Gore-Tex® Paclite®: New for 2009, this exclusive Paclite® membrane is laminated to lightweight, strong nylon textiles to produce garments that are extremely breathable, compressible, and durably waterproof. This membrane contains a protective black layer that is made of an "oil-hating" (oleophobic) polymer and carbon that allows perspiration vapor to pass through, but prohibits body oils, cosmetics, salt water, and insect repellents from altering the water proof qualities of the membrane. Extremely compressible, this fabric packs extremely small.

Gore-Tex® Performance Shell: This fabric provides breathable comfort and durably waterproof and windproof protection. It is used in a two-layer construction for a lighter and softer feel and in three-layer construction for a more heavy-duty alternative.

Gore-Tex® Pro Shell: Engineered with the most rugged, most breathable, durably waterproof and windproof fabrics, three-layer Gore-Tex® Pro Shell with Gore Micro-Grid Backer meets the high demands of hardcore outdoor athletes. Gore-Tex® Pro Shell allows you to enjoy longer exposure to harsh conditions without losing vital body heat.

Three-Layer Gore-Tex® XCR® : The most durable, waterproof, breathable fabric available, Gore-Tex® XCR® makes it breathable, durable, waterproof, and lightweight.

Two-Layer Gore-Tex® XCR® : The most tested and trusted weather protection you can wear. Windproof, waterproof and breathable, 2-Layer Gore-Tex® XCR® is soft and lightweight, perfect for active pursuits.

Gore Windstopper®: This provides wind protection and allows excess moisture to escape while preventing unwanted moisture from coming back in.

Gore Windstopper® Soft Shell Fabric
Totally windproof, water resistant, and very breathable, Gore Windstopper® Soft Shell garments combine the reliable protection of a shell with the comfort of a mid-layer. These garments keep outdoor enthusiasts comfortable without the need for bulky, restring layers, making them ideal for active pursuits and challenging weather conditions.

Gore Windstopper® Soft Shell garments are made with unique, soft, stretch fabrics that are highly abrasion resistant – allowing for a wide range of motion. As these garments are very breathable, wearers can be incredibly active and remain comfortable.

Gore Windstopper® Active Shells
Windstopper® Active Shells are the lightest, most packable garments that are completely windproof, offer maximum breathability, and water resistance. Windstopper® Active Shells keep you comfortable for enhanced performance during highly aerobic activities. In this two-layer construction, the Windstopper® membrane is bonded to an extremely breathable and abrasion resistant outer fabric.

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