Gore-Tex ePE Membrane: Revolutionising Sustainability and Performance in Outdoor Gear
Mar 25, 2024
In the world of outdoor gear, the Gore-Tex brand is synonymous with high-performance and durability. However, as the industry increasingly prioritises sustainability, there has been a growing demand for more eco-friendly options that do not compromise on performance. Enter the Gore-Tex ePE membrane, a development in membrane technology that aims to address this need.
The Need for Sustainable Outdoor Gear
The outdoor industry has faced criticism for its environmental impact, particularly concerning the use of chemicals and non-biodegradable materials in gear production. Many outdoor enthusiasts are now seeking alternatives that minimise the long-lasting effects that the production methods and materials can have on the environment. However, they still want high-performing gear. This demand has prompted brands like Gore-Tex to innovate and develop more sustainable solutions.
Introducing the Gore-Tex ePE Membrane
The Gore-Tex ePE membrane is the result of a decade-long effort by Gore-Tex to create a more sustainable alternative to their traditional ePTFE (expanded polytetrafluoroethylene) membrane. The ePE membrane is made from expanded polyethylene, a material that offers good performance when compared to ePTFE but with a lighter ecological footprint.
Enhanced Sustainability
The important thing about the ePE membrane is its improved sustainability credentials. The membrane is lighter and thinner than its ePTFE counterpart, resulting in a reduced carbon footprint. Additionally, the use of carefully selected solution-dyed and/or recycled materials further lowers its environmental impact. This commitment to sustainability is aligned with the goals of organisations like Greenpeace, with whom Gore-Tex has collaborated to eliminate PFCs (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) of environmental concern from their products.
Maintaining Performance Standards
While sustainability is a crucial aspect of the ePE membrane, Gore-Tex has endeavoured not to compromise on performance. The membrane retains the core attributes that have made Gore-Tex products renowned in the industry. It is durably waterproof, reliably breathable, and completely windproof. The ePE membrane has been rigorously tested to ensure it meets the high standards expected from Gore-Tex gear. However, the elements that have been removed, whether it’s the tetrafluorocarbons in this instance or the fairly recent trend of removing PFCs from waterproof jackets means that they don’t maintain their performance for as long as you may be used to if you are used to a jacket that was manufactured pre- (around) 2020, depending on what brand it is. So, bare in mind that modern waterproof gear will need to be re-proofed more often.
Gore-Tex ePE Membrane in Outdoor Gear
The introduction of the ePE membrane has allowed Gore-Tex to incorporate it into a wide range of outdoor gear, including jackets, footwear, and gloves.
Testing and Validation
Gore-Tex has always been synonymous with rigorous testing to ensure the performance of their products. The ePE membrane undergoes extensive testing to meet the brand's high standards. The membrane is put through its paces in the lab and real-world conditions to ensure its durability, waterproofness, and breathability.
Industry Recognition
The introduction of the ePE membrane has garnered recognition within the outdoor industry. GearJunkie's "Gear of the Year" awards, which honour innovation, sustainability, and engineering excellence, recognized the ePE membrane as a winner in 2023. Similarly, Popular Science awarded the ePE membrane a "Best of What's New" accolade in 2022. These accolades highlight the groundbreaking nature of the ePE membrane and its contribution to both performance and sustainability.
The Future of Gore-Tex and Sustainable Outdoor Gear
Gore-Tex's commitment to sustainability doesn't end with the ePE membrane. The brand continually explores new avenues to reduce its environmental impact and improve the sustainability of its products. By partnering with renowned outdoor brands and organisations, Gore-Tex aims to lead the outdoor industry towards a more sustainable future.
Conclusion
The Gore-Tex ePE membrane represents a significant step forward in the quest for sustainable outdoor gear. With its lighter ecological footprint and excellent performance, the ePE membrane is a testament to Gore-Tex's commitment to innovation and responsible performance. As outdoor enthusiasts continue to prioritise sustainability, the ePE membrane offers a viable solution for those seeking gear that is both eco-friendly and high-performing. The loss of more harmful aspects of the manufacture of our gear is a good thing, however, despite what the marketing says, it does come at a loss, with DWR coatings not being effective for as long or membranes not breathing as well. Time will tell with this new technology, but we’re glad it’s here.
The outdoor industry has been criticized for its environmental impact, particularly due to the use of chemicals and non-biodegradable materials in gear production. Many outdoor enthusiasts are now seeking alternatives that minimize the long-lasting effects of production methods and materials on the environment while still wanting high-performing gear. This demand has led brands like Gore-Tex to innovate and develop more sustainable solutions to cater to the environmentally conscious outdoor enthusiasts.