I was speaking to a representative for a leading hiking boot manufacturer (I won't name names) and he confirmed what I'd already suspected. "Deciding to go without Gore-Tex is basically commercial suicide." This sentiment underlines the reputation that Gore-Tex's breathable waterproof membranes have among consumers looking to invest in performance outdoor kit.
Yes, in the outdoor business, Gore-Tex is as ubiquitous a term as Vibram soles and Polartec fleece linings. It’s found in almost every piece of kit you can think of: hiking boots, waterproof jackets, ski gloves and tents.
