There’s a new Gore-Tex Active fabric on the way, and it’s radically different to what’s gone before. Destined for top-end clothing for high-aerobic activities like cycling, the new material will lose the outer protective layer previously used by Gore-Tex garments, making it simpler and lighter – but remaining waterproof and highly breathable.
Cycle clothing made from the new Gore-Tex Active fabric will be available to buy courtesy of Castelli and Gore Bike Wear from December 2015, with lots more on the way from other brands in 2016. To whet your appetite, Castelli’s new Idro jacket will weigh a claimed 155g in size large but pack down easily into a jersey pocket.
So how’s the new fabric different? Well it’s made from fewer layers, meaning it should be much lighter and more packable. Gore-Tex Active garments are currently made from three layers, with the breathable Gore-Tex membrane sandwiched between a liner fabric to keep things comfy, and an outer fabric to protect the Gore-Tex membrane.
Related: Gore Oxygen 2.0 Gore-Tex Active jacket
This new fabric has a permanent water beading surface, which eliminates the need for a face fabric, and means there’s little chance of it wetting out. Plus, it can be machine-washed, and does not require tumble-drying for reactivation of water repellency.
We’ll be keeping an eye out for the next cycle clothing to be made from the new Gore-Tex Active, watch this space…