GORE-TEX Stretch technology for the military combines thermal comfort with maximum freedom of movement
Fitness-for-use test confirms product benefits in a simulated reconnaissance mission
Military operations are challenging. Soldiers have to run, climb, crawl and operate - in all weather conditions in rough terrain. This makes it all the more important that they can move freely, stay focused and dry and warm. GORE-TEX Stretch technology is an innovative combination of robust, breathable hardshell material and stretch components and is the first textile technology for military clothing that reduces thermal stress while allowing maximum freedom of movement. This has been confirmed by a fitness-for-use test in a simulated reconnaissance mission, carried out by former special operations forces. Military procurement is also already convinced: several special units are testing the material in action, and one special unit has already placed its first order.
GORE-TEX Professional (Gore) presents the GORE-TEX Stretch technology for armed forces at Milipol 2023 in Paris (November 14 - 17, 2023) at booth 5 C 110.
Protection against overheating and improved freedom of movement are at the top of soldiers' wish lists for operational clothing. This has been substantiated by numerous surveys conducted by Gore amongst members of various military units. With GORE-TEX Stretch product technology, Gore offers a milestone for more comfort and protection: the material consists of elastic components between a membrane and robust polyamide outer fabric. The innovative material offers up to 20 percent elasticity, ideal for clothing with close-fitting cuts. The tighter fit reduces air pockets between the body and clothing. Breathability is up to 25 percent better compared to previous military clothing. In addition to significantly improved temperature regulation, the material is more comfortable to wear and can be easily combined with other layers of clothing without restricting freedom of movement. The GORE-TEX Stretch product technology is also permanently waterproof and windproof.
Put to the test: fitness-for-use test in snow, rain, and wind
How does the material perform when it counts? Two former special forces soldiers tested the GORE-TEX Stretch Defense rain suit on a parcours and in a two-day simulated reconnaissance mission in the mountains in the most adverse weather conditions of -5 to -1 degrees Celsius.
The soldiers tested the flexibility of the GORE-TEX Stretch rain suit in terrain with slopes, thickets, and wet snow. The test showed that the protective clothing made progress in the mountains, sometimes climbing and crawling, considerably easier. During physical exertion, the material regulates the body temperature. The test proved that the material could be worn for a long time - a big plus in situations where it is not possible to change clothes.
Oliver Opitz, Product Specialist at GORE-TEX Professional for Armed Forces, emphasizes: "In this fitness-for-use test, GORE-TEX Stretch technology showed what it's made of - protection and comfort in extreme weather conditions paired with maximum freedom of movement. Our test subjects were very impressed, which is in line with the feedback from many special forces to date."
Gore revolutionized the outerwear industry with waterproof, breathable GORE-TEX Fabric more than 40 years ago and remains a leading innovator of performance apparel. Gore fabrics products provide comfort and protection in challenging environments and in everyday life, enabling wearers to safely and confidently achieve and experience more. From hiking in downpours to defense operations and fighting fires, Gore’s deep understanding of consumer and industry needs drives development of products with meaningful performance advantages. gore-tex.com and goretexprofessional.com
About Gore
W. L. Gore & Associates is a global materials science company dedicated to transforming industries and improving lives. Since 1958, Gore has solved complex technical challenges in demanding environments - from outer space to the world’s highest peaks to the inner workings of the human body. With more than 13,000 Associates and a strong, team-oriented culture, Gore generates annual revenues of $4.8 billion. gore.com