Putzbrunn, June 1, 2026 – Wet conditions are a daily reality for firefighters. Their boots get heavier when wet and reduce insulation against the cold. This significantly reduces comfort and increases physical strain, especially during long and physically demanding operations. Tests conducted in GORE-TEX® laboratories have shown that water absorption in boots in wet conditions can lead to a noticeable increase in weight, depending on the upper material and boot design.  

HAIX, a manufacturer of functional footwear and apparel, is introducing its new Fire Eagle 3.0 EXG with EXTRAGUARD upper material at INTERSCHUTZ 2026. The upper technology developed by the GORE-TEX® brand significantly reduces water absorption in the boots, thereby speeding up the drying process after use. This enables a lighter overall construction with fewer additional reinforcements, improving mobility and comfort when in use, especially during extended wear in wet conditions. 

“The EXTRAGUARD upper technology was developed to permanently reduce water absorption, so firefighter boots remain lightweight even in extremely wet conditions,” explains Johannes Krieg, Footwear Product Specialist at the GORE-TEX® brand.  

Minimal weight gain in wet conditions 

EXTRAGUARD upper technology combines a durable, flame-retardant outer layer, an insulating functional layer, and a structural inner layer that absorbs hardly any water. The multi-layer system minimizes the boot’s weight gain in wet conditions.  

The robust upper material ensures easy maintenance and cleaning, requiring only simple rinsing or wiping. No extra care with shoe polish is necessary. 

Together with the proven GORE-TEX® CROSSTECH® lining technology, the boot provides lasting protection against water penetration, chemicals, and bloodborne pathogens while remaining breathable. 

Further development of the HAIX Fire Eagle platform 

Firefighter athletes also value EXTRAGUARD technology—especially during long and physically intense activities: “In disciplines like obstacle courses or stair climbing, every ounce of extra weight counts,” says Robin Altbürger, reigning German champion of the FireFit Championships and tester of the Fire Eagle 3.0 EXG. “Even in wet conditions, the boot remains lightweight, making it noticeably more agile and comfortable to wear. A consistently high level of speed and agility can then be maintained, especially for quick changes of direction, navigating steps, or during prolonged physical exertion.” 

HAIX’s Fire Eagle 3.0 EXG draws on the experience gained from the Fire Eagle 2.0 EXG predecessor model. In addition to the version with EXTRAGUARD upper material, it is also available with classic leather upper material and GORE-TEX® CROSSTECH® lining. 

The HAIX Fire Eagle 3.0 EXG will be presented at the GORE-TEX® (W. L. Gore & Associates) booth D32 in Hall 15, as well as at the HAIX booth H47 in Hall 15, and in the outdoor area at booth R84.  

Putzbrunn, (6th March, 2026) – Combat boots are among the most critical equipment components for the military and police. They are permanently in use, carry the emergency services over long distances and under changing environmental conditions – and have a direct effect on performance, safety and fatigue. However, many professional models continue to be guided by established design principles, although modern material technologies today enable fundamentally new approaches to protection, comfort and moisture management. At the same time, the application profiles are changing: higher mobility, more frequent climate changes and longer wearing times significantly increase the functional requirements. A new concept study, by the GORE-TEX® brand, illustrates what is possible with EXTRAGUARD product technology in the design and construction of combat boots for military applications and tactical boots for police and government scenarios: the protection of a combat boot, with comfort of a trainer.

"The technical basis of the concept study is the GORE-TEX® EXTRAGUARD upper material. It is characterised by extremely low water absorption, fast re-drying and a consistently low weight, even in wet conditions – while at the same time being highly robust and resistant," explains David Bastias, Strategic Marketing for Footwear at the GORE-TEX® brand. "This material characteristic allows for unconventional design solutions that go beyond traditional boot construction methods – especially for uppers, protection zones and moisture management."

Development without existing design patterns

The study was created with a completely new design – comparable to a technical concept model. Instead of adapting classic leather constructions or typical seams, the boots were freshly designed around GORE-TEX® EXTRAGUARD technology in all components. Central to this new design is the use of fewer seams, which simplifies the boots construction and improves manufacturing efficiency.  

The study also relied on an unconventional approach in the sole area: The ETPU midsoles of both prototypes come from the performance shoe sector and combine low weight, durable cushioning behavior with high flexibility. A modular torsion shank also provides the necessary stability. The total weight of the prototypes is around 1.2 kilograms per pair which is in line with the range of modern lightweight combat boots - but now offering improved wearer comfort.

Military and Police Boot Prototypes Compared

The concept study involved two prototypes for different mission profiles. Whilst both prototypes are based on the same basic design architecture and benefit from GORE-TEX® EXTRAGUARD construction – making them permanently waterproof and robust - they differ in the functional design of the individual components.  

The combat boot for military applications, for example, is equipped with a "Ladder Grip" profile for a secure grip on ladders and metal structures – a frequently requested criterion in military tenders. This prototype was constructed using a Coyote coloured outer with a suede-like appearance.

The tactical boot for police and government scenarios, on the other hand, was constructed using a  smoother, functionally oriented outsole. Here the focus was on walking comfort and freedom of movement in urban use. This boot was made with a black smooth leather.

Impulses for future developments

"The concept study shows the potential that arises when operational boots are consistently developed based on function and material-related design logic. This opens up a freedom in the design process which was previously hard to achieve in classical approaches," Bastias summarizes. "It opens up new avenues for the development of innovative military and tactical footwear concepts that can take full advantage of the GORE-TEX® EXTRAGUARD upper."

·       BUILT WITH GORE-TEX® EXTRAGUARD PRODUCT TECHNOLOGY for EXTREME ROBUSTNESS AND LASTING LIGHTWEIGHT PERFORMANCE.

·       STUDY DEMONSTRATES CONSTRUCTION ADVANTAGES FOR MORE SUSTAINABLE AND EFFICIENT PRODUCTION.

Putzbrunn, (6 November 2025) – The GORE-TEX® Brand, a global leader in high-performance waterproof, windproof, and breathable fabric technologies has unveiled a concept study for the future of combat and safety footwear. The prototype highlights Gore’s commitment to ongoing research and development, exploring how innovative materials and construction methods can meet the demands of evolving mission profiles, harsher climates, and heightened comfort expectations. It exemplifies how performance, protection, and modern design can converge in a forward-thinking concept.

“Conventional tactical and combat boots made from leather are often heavy, uncomfortable and slow to dry when exposed to water or extreme climates. In contrast, our EXTRAGUARD Upper can help overcome limitations of traditional leather constructions, increasing comfort and protection,” says David Bastias, Strategic Marketing for Footwear at the GORE-TEX® Brand. “Adding the EXTRAGUARD Upper Technology offers extremely low water uptake, rapid re-dry, and consistent weight under wet conditions while also delivering the robustness and element protection defense operations demand. This balance of comfort and durability marks a significant step forward in combat boot design for the benefit of the soldier or police, and also the footwear manufacturer.”

Advanced design for multi-terrain performance

At the heart of this vision lies GORE-TEX® EXTRAGUARD Product Technology. It was developed precisely with these needs in mind. Supplied in roll form, EXTRAGUARD Upper can be cut into larger pattern pieces, reducing the number of seams and the need for taping and improving waterproof protection. This enables new construction methods and design freedom to reduce pressure points in abrasion-prone areas such as the heel and shaft while enhancing durability. Inspired by sneaker design, the concept offers improved wearing comfort and a modern look, crucial for soldiers and service members who expect both performance and comfort in their footwear.

Sustainability and resource efficiency

These construction advantages also pave the way for more sustainable and efficient production methods. the EXTRAGUARD Upper ensures consistent quality and reduces material waste, due to simplified construction and manufacturing. At the same time, it enables a variety of design options such as PU casting, printing, debossing, welding, and stitch-free applications. This provides footwear manufacturers with freedom in design and cost efficiencies.

"We are rethinking protection and performance for the modern soldier," says Rainer Geiger, Application Engineer at the GORE-TEX® Brand. “By combining maximum resilience with ultimate comfort and also embracing efficiency, we’re demonstrating the potential of GORE-TEX® EXTRAGUARD Product Technology and opening new pathways for brand partners to step into designing more innovative military and tactical footwear.”

About Gore

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 military operations and fighting fires, Gore’s deep understanding of consumer and industry needs drives development of products with meaningful performance advantages.

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 $5 billion. gore.com

The new generation of PYRAD® Product Technology by GORE-TEX LABS®
Reliable protection against electric arc incidents has never been so lightweight. Weighing just 320 g/m², the PYRAD® Product Technology by GORE-TEX LABS® is the most lightweight single-layer technology to incorporate class 2 arc-rated protection. The innovation: it combines three layers of material in one laminate layer – the face fabric made of 100 % recycled polyester, the membrane incorporating protective PYRAD® Product Technology on both sides, and the skin-friendly backer. This construction uses less material and gives the fabric a perceptibly softer feel. Over 100 professionals from a major Italian utility company tested the garments in the summer of 2024 under real working conditions. The outcome: outstanding freedom of movement, conductive heat loss and breathability. Licensed Gore brand partners Van Heurck, Iturri and BSD are also convinced and will be presenting their new protective outfits at this year’s show.

EXTRAGUARD Upper Technology
This technology raises the comfort of safety footwear to a new level. It is the first of its kind to combine the benefits of a robust upper with the advantages of lightweight textiles in one and the same material. EXTRAGUARD safety footwear is robust, waterproof, quick to re-dry and remains lightweight over long periods in wet conditions – even after months of use or continual wear in demanding working conditions. The technology is available as of now for a wide spectrum of work scenarios including the utility, railway, construction and demolition sectors. A large-scale wearer trial at Deutsche Bahn (German railways) established its excellent fitness for use in everyday situations. The fact that the technology has been so well received by leading manufacturers is an indication of the demand in the market for durable and comfortable safety footwear. Atlas, Elten, Fal, HAIX, Heckel, Obuv, Robusta, Solid Gear, Steitz Secura and U-Power will be showcasing their latest EXTRAGUARD styles at this year’s A+A.

Visitors will find the GORE-TEX® Brand in hall 11, stand H 67.
For all media enquiries and interview requests, please contact Sally@rusecomm.co.uk

Putzbrunn (February 23, 2024) - The innovative EXTRAGUARD upper material technology for police boots is lightweight, yet robust and noticeably more comfortable to wear: GORE-TEX EXTRAGUARD police boots remain lightweight even when emergency services have to stand out in the rain for several hours at a demonstration, for example. The innovative upper material is also flame-retardant. At Enforce Tac 2024 (February 26 to 28) in Nuremberg, Gore will be presenting police boots from leading manufacturers with GORE-TEX EXTRAGUARD upper technology for the first time.

Police forces need robust, waterproof, and breathable footwear that reliably protects them in all weather conditions and during dangerous operations or demonstrations. Until now, the robustness and waterproofness of the boots have had a significant influence on comfort - conventional police boots are rather heavy. As the product's service life increases, they can lose their waterproofing, meaning that conventional upper material can become soaked in the rain, making the boots even heavier. Another challenge is the re-drying of soaked boots: it can take many hours before they are completely dry again. However, if they have to be worn again in the meantime, this can draw heat away from the foot and create cold bridges.

Is light, stays light and dries quickly

With EXTRAGUARD, GORE-TEX Professional has developed a completely new, sustainable outer material technology: it combines the advantages of robust leather with those of lightweight, flexible, and breathable textile outer materials. The technology consists of three layers: a highly abrasion-resistant and flame-retardant outer protective layer, a functional layer that protects against mechanical impacts and an innovative inner construction layer that absorbs hardly any water. When dry, the EXTRAGUARD outer material is 40% lighter than dry leather of the same thickness. It absorbs less moisture from the outside and remains dry and light even after prolonged exposure to water or loss of the initial impregnation. Moisture penetrates from the outside only as far as the inner construction layer of the EXTRAGUARD upper material and is then kept out by it. This minimises heat loss and prevents cold bridges, keeping feet dry and comfortably warm even in wet or cold conditions. The robust boots dry quickly, are ready for use again a few hours later and are comfortable to wear. In combination with the internal, waterproof, and breathable GORE-TEX lining, this means an enormous increase in protection and comfort for the police.

First models available on the market this year

"Our EXTRAGUARD upper technology is a real game changer for the police. At Enforce Tac, we will be presenting models for various areas of application, from very lightweight tactical to flame-resistant riot styles. The response has been great: a German police unit will soon be putting a model through its paces in tough everyday police work. The first models are expected to be available on the market before the end of this year," explains Johannes Krieg, Product Specialist at Gore.

High performance and reduced environmental impact

Function and performance have top priority at Gore because the company makes no compromises when it comes to protection and comfort. At the same time, EXTRAGUARD technology also sets new standards in terms of sustainability: the use of water and chemicals is minimized during production, and CO2 emissions are comparatively low. And finally, the longevity of the products also contributes to a better eco-balance.

Facts & figures about GORE-TEX EXTRAGUARD technology

·        GORE-TEX EXTRAGUARD combat boots are permanently waterproof and breathable. They exceed the required values in accordance with EN ISO 20345/347 many times over.

·        The abrasion-resistant upper material is 40% lighter than leather when dry. As it absorbs virtually no moisture from the outside, the GORE-TEX boot remains dry and light even after prolonged exposure to water or loss of the initial waterproofing.

·        Heat and flame resistance in accordance with DIN EN 15090: If these boots are exposed to an open flame for 10 seconds in accordance with DIN EN ISO 15025-A/DIN EN 15090, there is no afterburning.

Putzbrunn (February 23, 2024) - Days of deployment in the rain, cold and hardly any time to recover: General infantry and special units brave the toughest conditions on deployment. Only the best equipment meets the requirements: EXTRAGUARD upper technology enables a completely new class of GORE-TEX combat boots and combines the advantages of a robust upper material with those of lightweight, flexible, and breathable textiles for the first time. The boots are not only permanently waterproof, breathable, and flame-retardant, but also permanently lightweight - even after a long time in wet, muddy terrain - and dry again quickly afterwards. The EXTRAGUARD technology is also characterised by a low CO₂ footprint. The response from manufacturers has been great: just a few months after the technology launch, well-known Gore partners are showing the first styles of GORE-TEX EXTRAGUARD combat boots. 

Gore presents the EXTRAGUARD outer material technology at booth 7A-537 at Enforce Tac in Nuremberg from February 26 to 28, 2024.

Conventional military boots are rather heavy and not very comfortable. In addition, the water-repellent impregnation wears off as the product's service life increases: The longer the boots are exposed to moisture, the heavier the upper material becomes. They often take many hours to dry out again. If the boots have to be worn again when wet, this can draw heat from the body - resulting in cold feet.

Is light, stays light and dries quickly

EXTRAGUARD upper material sets new standards for combat boots: when dry, it is 40 percent lighter than dry leather of the same thickness. As EXTRAGUARD upper material absorbs less moisture from the outside, it remains light even when wet for long periods and dries considerably faster. EXTRAGUARD upper material is also flame-retardant.

Combination of EXTRAGUARD upper material and GORE-TEX bootie

The EXTRAGUARD upper material unfolds its full benefits in combination with the GORE SEAM® tape and the GORE-TEX bootie. The EXTRAGUARD outer material itself consists of three layers: a highly abrasion-resistant and flame-retardant outer protective layer, a functional layer for physical protection and a construction inner layer with low water absorption. During the manufacture of GORE-TEX combat boots, it is sealed with GORE SEAM® tape so that no moisture can penetrate through the seams. The upper material is integrated into the boot with the internal, waterproof, and breathable GORE-TEX bootie. The GORE-TEX bootie construction ensures that the boot is permanently waterproof, even if the water-repellent waterproofing wears off or the upper material is damaged.

Comfortable fit, easy cleaning, robust protection

The GORE-TEX combat boots prove themselves from the first minute of use: they are comfortable right from the start, do not need to be broken in and retain their shape. Their robustness offers reliable protection against sharp objects, common chemicals, and moisture. Care is extremely easy, simply rinse with water. Specific care products are not necessary. Even after months of wear in a wet environment, they remain permanently waterproof and breathable and exceed the required values in accordance with EN ISO 20345/347 many times over.

The result of years of research

"The EXTRAGUARD upper technology is the result of years of research and close collaboration with defense forces around the world," explains Martin Pfister, Product Specialist Defense Footwear at GORE-TEX Professional. "Initial feedback from military field tests in various challenging terrains confirm our laboratory results in the real world. Just a few months after the technology launch in October 2023, we have already been able to acquire well-known footwear partners who are evaluating the first models. This rapid implementation is the result of market demand and underlines the fact that we have hit a nerve with this technology."

High performance and reduced environmental impact

Function and performance have top priority at Gore because the company makes no compromises when it comes to protection and comfort. At the same time, EXTRAGUARD technology also sets new standards in terms of sustainability: the use of water and chemicals is minimized during production, and CO2 emissions are comparatively low. And finally, the longevity of the products also contributes to a better eco-balance.

Gore revolutionized the outerwear industry more than 40 years ago with waterproof, breathable GORE-TEX fabric and continues to be a leading innovator of performance apparel. Gore's products provide comfort and protection in demanding environments and everyday life, allowing wearers to achieve and experience more, safely, and confidently. From hiking in pouring rain to defense operations and firefighting, Gore's deep understanding of consumer and industry needs drives the development of products with significant performance benefits. gore-tex.com and goretexprofessional.com

The challenge: Military forces need robust, waterproof, and breathable footwear that reliably protects them during dangerous missions in all weather conditions and over varying terrains. Conventional military combat boots tend to be heavy and not very comfortable. Moreover, with increasing product life, the water-repellent impregnation wears off over time: the upper material becomes heavier and heavier the longer the boots are exposed to wetness. It often takes many hours to dry them out again after use. If the boots have to be worn again whilst wet, this can draw heat from the body - resulting in cold feet.

It is light, stays light and dries quickly

EXTRAGUARD uppers set a new standard for combat boots: when dry, they are 40 percent lighter than dry leather of the same thickness. Because EXTRAGUARD uppers absorb less moisture from the outside, they remain lightweight and dry significantly faster even in prolonged wet conditions. In addition, EXTRAGUARD uppers are flame retardant.

Combination of EXTRAGUARD upper and GORE-TEX Bootie 
The EXTRAGUARD upper reveals its full benefits when in combination with the GORE-SEAM® Tape and the GORE-TEX bootie. The EXTRAGUARD upper itself consists of three layers: a highly abrasion-resistant and flame-retardant outer protective layer, a functional layer for physical protection, and a construction inner layer with low water absorption. During the manufacture of GORE-TEX combat boots, it is sealed with GORE-SEAM® Tape so that moisture cannot penetrate through the seams. The upper is integrated into the boot with the GORE-TEX Bootie inside, which is waterproof and breathable. The GORE-TEX Bootie construction ensures that the boot is permanently waterproof, even if the water-repellent impregnation has worn off or the upper material is damaged.

Comfortable fit, easy cleaning, robust protection

In the field, the GORE-TEX combat boots prove themselves from the first minute: they are comfortable from the start, do not need to be broken in and remain dimensionally stable. The robustness offers reliable protection against sharp objects, common chemicals, and moisture. Care is simple, they can simply be sprayed clean with water. Specific care products are not necessary. Even after months of wear in wet environments, they remain permanently waterproof and breathable, not only meeting but exceeding the required values according to EN ISO 20345/347.

Result of years of research

"EXTRAGUARD upper technology is the result of years of research and close collaboration with defense forces around the world" explains Martin Pfister, Product Specialist Defense Footwear at GORE-TEX Professional. "Initial feedback from military field tests in a variety of challenging terrains confirm our lab results in the real world."

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

The EXTRAGUARD upper technology consists of three layers: The outer layer is highly abrasion-resistant and robust, the functional second layer, is variable in thickness and is designed to protect the foot from impact and shock. The third, innovative construction inner layer can be sealed on the back with GORE® Seam Tape - which prevents moisture from penetrating the upper from the outside via the seams.

"Our upper innovation will benefit workers in construction and demolition, railroads, utilities or agriculture, as well as power and water utility workers, who want to rely on rugged, durable protective, yet lightweight and comfortable safety footwear for heavy and medium-duty jobs," explains Helmut Klug, Footwear Product Specialist at GORE-TEX Professional. "EXTRAGUARD upper technology is designed for the toughest working conditions and provides rugged and comfortable protection even after months of use or continuous exposure to demanding, wet working conditions."

Safety footwear remain durably dry and light

The upper material is 40 percent lighter than leather when dry - and remains permanently light even in wet conditions: it absorbs hardly any moisture from the outside even after prolonged use or if the water-repellent impregnation is lost, and thus changes its weight insignificantly. The 3-layer construction ensures that GORE-TEX safety footwear with EXTRAGUARD upper material construction remains lightweight even during heavy use in rain or snow, as well as protecting against sharp and falling objects, heat, and abrasion. Moisture from the outside penetrates to a maximum of the innovative construction inner layer and is kept out by it. Therefore, moisture does not form between the upper material and the interior waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX technology (bootie construction). This reduces potential heat loss and prevents cold bridges.

Fast re-drying, easy cleaning

Conventional uppers for safety footwear become soaked in a damp environment once the impregnation has been lost. This makes them heavy. Thanks to the low absorption of moisture in the upper material, the re-drying time of GORE-TEX EXTRAGUARD safety footwear is much faster compared to safety footwear made with conventional uppers. A GORE-TEX safety footwear with EXTRAGUARD technology does not need to be broken in; it fits comfortably right from the start. Even after extensive wear, no annoying wrinkles form. The color and shape remain unchanged. For care and cleaning, spraying with water is sufficient and specific care products are not necessary.

"By combining durable low weight, low water absorption and fast re-drying time in a robust three-layer upper technology, EXTRAGUARD footwear offers the highest level of comfort and protection," concludes Klug.

New standards also in terms of sustainability

EXTRAGUARD stands for a new generation of upper technologies for safety footwear that also sets new standards in terms of sustainability: Less chemicals and less water are used in the production of EXTRAGUARD upper technology compared to conventional uppers. CO2 emissions are significantly reduced. The face material is manufactured without chrome and supplied in consistent quality on rolls - this also significantly minimizes material consumption. Finally, the durability of EXTRAGUARD face material technology also contributes to a better eco-balance.

First styles and collections at A+A 2023

At A+A 2023 in Düsseldorf, Gore and the following 11 Gore footwear partners will present the firstcommercial styles of GORE-TEX safety footwear with the new EXTRAGUARD upper technology: Atlas, Elten, Fal, Grisport, Haix, Obuv, Robusta, Solid Gear, Steitz Secura, TS Corporation, Unikhan and Upower. This great response from well-known manufacturers illustrates the need in the market for safety footwear that is robust, waterproof  and at the same time permanently lightweight and comfortable.

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

GORE-TEX EXTRAGUARD Safety Footwear - Is light and stays light!

The innovative EXTRAGUARD upper material is incorporated into GORE-TEX safety footwear, making it robust, waterproof and at the same time permanently lightweight - even in extreme weather conditions. Compared to leather, the material enables a wide range of design options because it can be processed differently - the best prerequisites for the 'EXTRAGUARD and AI' project.

"We see ourselves as an incubator of ideas, want to inspire our customers and open up new horizons for them as well as for us. This also includes thinking differently about shoe design with the support of AI," explains Leonhard Schlichting, Business Leader Workwear at GORE-TEX Professional. "But one thing is clear: AI can be used to quickly visualize footwear designs, but whether they can actually be realized still requires technical expertise from Gore and the customer."

The starting point for the AI experiment was a selection of keywords that were refined during the AI process, and from these, individual AI design variants were subsequently created. "In total, we developed four EXTRAGUARD categories with style variants, all in the safety footwear segment. Chelsea boots, rigger boots, athletic safety shoes and rubber boots - instead of rubber, with EXTRAGUARD material," says Cornelius Waiblinger, Managing Director at AI Alanis.

"There is already a lot of interest from customers in what the design of safety footwear with AI could look like. With this project, we want to initiate discussions for new GORE-TEX EXTRAGUARD styles and are already looking forward to the exchange with our customers," explains David Bastias, responsible for strategic marketing footwear at GORE-TEX Professional.

Police forces need robust, waterproof-breathable footwear that reliably protects them in all weather conditions and during dangerous operations or demonstrations. Until now, the robustness and waterproofness of the boots had to be compromised with comfort – conventional police action boots tend to be rather heavy. With increasing product life, they can lose their impregnation, so that conventional upper material can become soaked in the rain, making the boots even heavier. Another challenge is the re-drying of wet boots: it sometimes takes many hours before they are completely dry again. However, if they have to be worn again in the meantime, this can draw heat away from the foot and create cold spots.

Is light, stays light, and quick re-dry

With EXTRAGUARD, GORE-TEX Professional has developed a completely new, sustainable outer material technology that combines the advantages of robust leather with those of lightweight, flexible, and breathable textile upper materials. The technology consists of three layers: a highly abrasion-resistant and flame-retardant outer layer, a functional layer that protects against mechanical impact, and an innovative construction inner layer that absorbs hardly any water. The EXTRAGUARD upper material is 40% lighter than leather in the same thickness and dry state, and because it absorbs less moisture from the outside, it remains lightweight and dries significantly faster when wet. Combined with the waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX Lining, police forces have a new range of tactical boots.

"After years of research, we are very proud to have significantly increased key comfort features such as weight, re-drying time and breathability with EXTRAGUARD upper technology. We are also able to offer today a truly sustainable technology for tactical boots that supports police forces in their daily operations," explains Johannes Krieg, Product Specialist at GORE-TEX Professional. "Initial feedback from wearers confirms our approach and give reason to believe for a real shift in thinking about how police boots are made."

High performance and reduced environmental impact

With GORE-TEX EXTRAGUARD police boots, police forces can not only count on high performance and excellent wearing comfort, but the technology also sets new standards in terms of sustainability: the EXTRAGUARD upper is , according to Higg MSI (higg.com), is manufactured with less water and CO2 emissions, lower chemical use and chromium-free. It is delivered as rolled good, so there is less material waste during production. In sum, all factors significantly reduce the environmental impact.

Facts & Figures about GORE-TEX EXTRAGUARD Technology

• GORE-TEX EXTRAGUARD tactical boots are durably waterproof and breathable. They exceed the required values according to EN ISO 20345/347.
• The abrasion-resistant material is 40% lighter than leather when dry. Because it absorbs very little moisture from the outside, the GORE-TEX EXTRAGUARD boot stays dry even after long exposure to water or loss of initial impregnation.
• Heat and flame resistance according to DIN EN 15090: If these boots are exposed to an open flame for 10 seconds according to DIN EN ISO 15025-A/DIN EN 15090, no afterflame occurs.

About Higg Index

The Higg Index, developed by the Sustainable Apparel Coalition, includes a set of tools that enable brands, retailers and factories of all sizes to accurately measure and assess a company's or product's sustainability performance at every stage of its development. The Higg Index tools measure social and environmental performance across the value chain, providing a holistic overview that enables companies to make meaningful improvements that protect the well-being of factory workers, local communities and the environment. https://apparelcoalition.org/the-higg-index/

This year’s top award for the P.C.I.A.W’s Best PPE Innovation in Footwear 2022 went to GORE-TEX Professional for their EXTRAGUARD upper technology. Selected by the independent PCIAW® judging panel for its outstanding protective properties and low carbon footprint.  EXTRAGUARD is a 3-layer footwear upper technology which offers a hard-wearing alternative to standard protective footwear uppers. In combination with a GORE-TEX lining, the safety footwear is also waterproof, breathable, 40% lighter than leather and comfortable to wear.

Yvette Ashby, Founder & CEO of PCIAW®, congratulated Jonas Andersson and Oli Willson, Sales Manager for GORE-TEX Professional in UK and Scandinavia, on their well-earned win: “This year’s PCIAW® Awards competition reached new heights, with an even wider range of global entrants, all of whom displayed an exceptional amount of talent and ingenuity. We are pleased, therefore, to have selected GORE-TEX Professional for the Best PPE Innovation in Footwear Award; their EXTRAGUARD upper technology will make a tremendous contribution to the worksite safety industry.”

The EXTRAGUARD upper technology consists of 3-layers. The outer layer is highly abrasion-resistant and robust. The second layer, called the functional layer, can be varied in thickness according to end user requirements and is intended to protect the foot from shock. The third or inner layer is called the low water absorption construction.

This new 3-layer upper is then sealed with GORE® Seam Tape and, together with a GORE-TEX lining (inner bootie construction), is integrated into a safety boot. Seam sealing prevents moisture from making its way into the boot through the seams. Even following months of heavy wear and loss of the water repellent finish GORE-TEX EXTRAGUARD safety footwear only absorbs a minimal amount of water, which means they stay light in weight. Plus, with the GORE-TEX inner bootie in place the footwear remains waterproof and feet stay dry, even if the surface layer of the upper has been damaged.

"Our scientific lab tests, as well as initial end user wearer tests, show that GORE-TEX safety footwear with EXTRAGUARD technology remain light, waterproof, comfortable yet robust even after months of intensive use," comments Helmut Klug, product specialist at GORE-TEX Professional.

Safety footwear remains durably light

In wet conditions it absorbs very little moisture and therefore doesn’t become heavy; changes in weight are slight and insignificant. The 3-layer construction ensures that the safety footwear remains lightweight even when heavily used in rain or snow and protects against sharp or falling objects, heat, wear and tear. Moisture from the outside only penetrates as far as the innovative low water absorption construction layer. Therefore, no moisture forms between the upper material and the inner GORE-TEX bootie. As a result, the conductive heat loss of a GORE-TEX EXTRAGUARD safety footwear is considerably less than that of conventional safety footwear.

Easy cleaning, quick re-dry

From first wear GORE-TEX safety footwear with EXTRAGUARD upper technology is comfortable and doesn’t have to be broken in. Even after long periods of wear the material doesn’t wrinkle, is colour fast and resistant to chemicals. Whilst conventional upper materials for safety shoes soak up moisture as soon as the waterproof repellent finish has worn away, this isn’t the case with GORE-TEX EXTRAGUARD safety footwear due to its low absorption construction. The footwear requires less re-drying time than conventional styles and spraying off dirt and mud with water is all the care and cleaning that is required.

The EXTRAGUARD upper technology also sets new standards in terms of sustainability: the upper material is chromium-free and delivered on rolls in consistent quality. This results in less production waste and significantly fewer chemicals are used in the manufacture of the upper material. The lower water consumption and minimized CO₂ emissions during production ensure a lower environmental footprint compared to conventional upper materials for safety footwear. And finally, because the new upper material is so hard wearing the footwear will be worn for longer which helps lower its environmental impact.

“Our licenced manufacturing partners have welcomed this new upper material technology which is ideal for workers within construction, demolition, rail, utilities and agriculture who need all-season safety footwear that is durably protective as well as lightweight and comfortable to wear for heavy and moderate daily activities. The first GORE-TEX EXTRAGUARD safety footwear models will be presented from autumn onwards,” comments Klug.

Learn more about the innovative upper technology: All day, every day; Dilemma; EXTRAGUARD Technology; Sustainability;