goretex - is it breathable?

I keep reading that Goretex doesn’t breathe too well, especially if the outer coating gets degraded.  Does anyone have an opinion?

mud

From researching before i purchased my jacket i came to conclusion that it is more breathable then any other jacket. I don’t seem to have any issues with my jacket. Also quick goggle and this is what it says

The pores in the GORE-TEX® membrane are 700 times BIGGER than a water vapour molecule

http://www.gore-tex.com/remote/Satellite/content/how-does-it-work-breathable

I would have imagined that Breathability along with Waterproofness would be the strong points of Goretex

I certainly had no problems with my shell last weekend (although it is brand new) it’s rated at 28k/20k

I plan on maintaining it by only washing with Nikwax Techwash.

Yeah, thanks Lanox.

I’ve seen comments in reviews around the web where people reckon Goretex is very waterproof but not so great for breathability.

Have a look at this and this.

Gore-tex is highly breathable. One of the best membranes for hiking due to its breathability properties (and waterproofing of course). I have always found this to be the case. No complaints from me.

Like anything though, it needs to be looked after properly. I find the maintenance to be minimal, but simple things like washing the garment properly and drying it on a low heat cycle (which reactivates the breathability) can make all the difference. Also, if you’re hiking/riding and sweating lots, make sure you open your vents and layer accordingly. I’m going to conclude user error in those who complain about Gore-tex.

Agreed with everyone else, i have Burton 2L Goretex pants and they started leaking water and bieng uncomfortable (i was getting real sweaty down there hahaha)

Anyway i washed them with the Nikwax and what a difference, as long as you keep the goretex clean it will be super breathable and super waterproof.

I think this rule applies to every waterproof/breathable fabric, keep it clean and itll work as designed

If its outerwear you’re after I’d recommend you not limit yourself to looking only at Gore-tex. Whilst Gore-tex is an excellent product I bought the Homeschool Snowboarding outerwear and now that I’ve field tested it I’d totally recommend it as an alternative. Homeschool’s tech is as breathable and waterproof as Gore-tex and possibly more!! Big call I know but check it out if you don’t mind buying from overseas that is .... no Aussie supplier yet.

I think this quote from one of those articles is interesting:

The very term breathable is a bit of a misnomer. While there are waterproof-breathable running and biking jackets, they don’t breathe that well. (Unless it’s really wet or really cold, you’re better off wearing some sort of water-resistant soft shell for aerobic pursuits.)

I reckon I might look into one of those teched-up hoodies in addition to a regular shell.

bracer - 17 August 2012 03:42 AM

If its outerwear you’re after I’d recommend you not limit yourself to looking only at Gore-tex. Whilst Gore-tex is an excellent product I bought the Homeschool Snowboarding outerwear and now that I’ve field tested it I’d totally recommend it as an alternative. Homeschool’s tech is as breathable and waterproof as Gore-tex and possibly more!! Big call I know but check it out if you don’t mind buying from overseas that is .... no Aussie supplier yet.

looks interesting, bracer, i’ll give them a look.