Gore-Tex

Gore-Tex is a popular technology which gives shoes a combinations of waterproofness and breathability, making them ideal for outdoor use in all conditions.

What is Gore-Tex and how does it work? We explain why the membrane is so effective, and which factors you should consider when choosing shoes and boots with Gore-Tex.

QUALITY TESTING

When we develop new models, all materials which will be used are approved by Gore-Tex. This is to ensure the materials meet the strict criteria of durability and quality. The prototype must be approved by Gore-Tex before the shoe can be produced.

In addition to testing all the materials used in the shoe, some shoes are tested during production and again as a final product. This happens in a few ways:

• At least 2% of all Gore-Tex shoes produced are controlled in a centrifuge to check they are waterproof. The centrifuge test will find the smallest leaks and is important to ensure the high quality Gore-Tex stands for.
  
• To ensure the Gore-Tex shoes are waterproof after hard use, some shoes are put in a machine to 'walk' for 2 days underwater. This extreme testing is far above how many other brands are testing their shoes.
  
• The water pressure test checks how must pressure the water must be under before it begins to seep through any small leaks.

ALWAYS DRY?

Although Gore-Tex makes shoes waterproof, it doesn't mean your feet will always be dry in wet conditions. With Gore-Tex you can be certain the water will not seep in through the sole or body of the shoe, but in very wet or muddy conditions the water can creep in from the open top of the shoe.

Many factors are at play, such as the shoes outer material, the shaft height, impregnation, and if you have tighten your trouser leg around the shaft of the boot. Generally textile shoes will more easily allow water to creep from the open top of the shoe, while leather boots require more humidity and moisture before seepage. A leather shoe will therefore keep your feet drier for longer than a textile shoe. The shaft height is also important; the higher the shaft, the higher water has to 'climb' to reach the top of the boot.

 Shoe choice should therefore be based on where you will use them, terrain and weather conditions. If you're planning a hike in wet terrain, wild weather, or places with high, wet grass, a higher shaft will be an advantage.  In such situations, leather can also be a better choice than textile. If you plan a hike in dry areas or choose days with little rain, a lower textile shoe can keep your feet dry.  It's therefore important to evaluate closely how and when the shoe will be used before you invest in a new pair.