GORE-TEX product technologies have been the gold standard for waterproofing. GORE-TEX has expanded polyethylene debuts for fall 2022. The new ePE membrane has a lower carbon footprint and lighter weight. When it comes to performance, protection, and sustainability, the Gore-Tex membranes are the ones to consider for all sorts of outdoor apparel.
Grenzke teased that ePE would debut in the Arc’teryx line in its Ralle (men’s) and Coelle (women’s) jackets for fall 2022. Until now ePTFE has been used by many brands; the material guarantees impermeability and breathability but at a high energy and chemical cost, resulting not very sustainable. The new material (ePE) developed by Gore, on the other hand, confirms once again an excellent performance but also responsible.
GORE-TEX lauds ePE as “a key milestone in Gore’s ongoing sustainability journey.” And that sustainability element is a significant part of both the impetus behind the innovation and brands’ interest in it. According to GORE, ePE boasts a smaller carbon footprint than its traditional waterproof-breathable membranes. This is thanks to ePE’s more diminutive profile it has less mass and less overall material, which translates to less energy input, water usage, and carbon output.
Moreover, the ePE membrane is PFC-free, a goal that has rapidly become an industry-wide standard. This lighter membrane can also bond with selected backers and face fabrics — like recycled, solution-dyed, or undyed materials — to ensure the performance elements integrate with various sustainable product constructions. The new ePE membrane will be available for the Fall Winter 2022 season in Gore-Tex branded products in the outdoor (apparel), lifestyle (clothing and footwear) and glove categories for winter sports from customers such as Adidas, Patagonia, Salomon and more.
