The winter season is raging in full force which means being subject to unpleasant elements like snow, rain, sleet, and wind. These types of weather can make you want to avoid the outside as much as possible and stay inside where it’s warm and dry. Unfortunately, however, spending the winter months in hibernation is not really a viable option for most people. There are things that you can do, however, to make cold, wet, and windy weather more tolerable. Wearing the proper clothing would be the most obvious suggestion. If you live in or are planning to visit a place that has a cold and windy climate and are interested in learning more about clothing options for these types of conditions, then you are going to want to read this article. In it, a specific type of clothing that is both wind and water-resistant will be examined. The type of clothing that is being referred to is a GoreTex wind-stopper.
What is GoreTex?
GoreTex is a special type of material that was co-developed twenty years ago by Rowena Taylor, Samuel Allen, Wilbert L. Gore, and his son Robert W. Gore. GoreTex is made from high-performance materials that are joined to a GoreTex membrane made from Teflon. This membrane is made up of tiny pore-like compositions that are small enough to prevent water leakage but large enough to allow moisture evaporation. This is the reason that GoreTex products are able to be both water-resistant and breathable.
How durable is GoreTex?
When GoreTex is properly cared for, it will last you a very long time. Plus, GoreTex products come with a warranty. GoreTex does run a little on the expensive side but being as long-lasting as they are and 100% water and wind proof, they are worth every penny. Furthermore, GoreTex products all use Gore-Seam Tape on the seams of garments. The Gore-Seam Tape allows for reinforced seam protection that prevents water from seeping through the holes of the stitching.
How do you care for a GoreTex wind-stopper?
Because both dirt and human sweat block the pores that give GoreTex its breathability, a GoreTex wind-stopper needs to be cleaned from time to time. After repeated wear and washes, however, the Durable Water Repellent (DWR) treatment on the surface of GoreTex fabric gets worn away, which can negatively affect the GoreTex wind-stopper’s ability to be water-resistant. To reinforce your GoreTex wind-stoppers DWR, there are three things that you can do. First, try tumble drying the wind-stopper. Next, try ironing it on a low setting. Lastly, you can re-proof the wind-stopper by using a wash-in re-proofer.
GoreTex wind-stoppers are available in a variety of styles and colors. So, if you have to spend time in the rain or wind, a GoreTex wind-stopper is an excellent investment that will keep you both warm, dry, and looking good.