Gore-Tex in motorcycle gear: Marketing or Science?

For years, Gore-Tex has become a symbol of quality and technology in the outdoor clothing industry. Touted as a waterproof and breathable material, its logo appears on high-end garments intended for those seeking to face extreme weather conditions. However, a recent analysis by YouTube channel FortNine, entitled “Gore-Tex is a Marketing Gimmick,” challenges these claims and questions whether its reputation is truly deserved or simply the result of a well-executed marketing strategy. In this article we will explore the key points raised in the video below.

What is Gore-Tex?

Gore-Tex is a fabric based on polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), also known as Teflon, which is presented as an expanded material (ePTFE). Its structure contains 70% air, which, in theory, allows air to circulate while blocking water ingress. This technology has been touted as the ultimate solution to keep you dry and comfortable, regardless of weather conditions. However, these promises are not always delivered in practice.

The limitations of Gore-Tex in motorcycle gear

Although laboratory tests show that Gore-Tex is waterproof, its ability to “breathe” has serious drawbacks in real-world environments. For the material to be breathable, there needs to be a significant difference in pressure or humidity between the inside and outside of the garment. This rarely occurs under normal conditions, which means that the breathability of Gore-Tex is much less effective than its marketing suggests.

Gore-Tex can lose its waterproofness over time due to factors such as dirt, wear and tear or incorrect use of detergents. This means that, despite the high initial cost of garments incorporating it, their performance can deteriorate relatively quickly.

Beyond Gore-Tex

Although the Gore-Tex patent expired in 1998, many brands continue to use it because of the weight of its name in the marketplace.

At Andromeda Moto we use, for example, Hipora membrane in the waterproof lining of the adventure Stardust suit. This membrane has been tested in heavy rain conditions in various parts of the world, including the UK, and has perfectly met expectations for waterproofing and durability. So, there are effective and reliable solutions beyond the best-known names on the market.

If you're looking for motorcycle gear, it might be worth investigating beyond the Gore-Tex logo. Consider other technologies and fabrics that might offer you good performance at a more reasonable price.