Outdoor Fabric Guide 7: Gore-Tex Active Shell

Posted by Neil | May 02, 2011

Here’s the latest of our Gear-Zone guides to outdoor clothing – and this one features what could be the crème-de-la-crème, a breakthrough in the age-old quandary of windproof versus waterproof, with effective breathability thrown in for good measure.

Fabric Guide: Active Shell

The Active Shell is a newcomer to the market, due to be launched later this year.

Aiming to achieve a better balance between the breathable and the waterproof more effectively than anything else around, Active Shells promise the breathability of a windproof jacket combined with the best waterproof qualities so far available.

Thinner, lighter and more comfortable to wear, the Active Shell is designed for all-weather athletes seeking durable water- and windproof protection. Maximum breathability and sweat management during highly-aerobic activities make it perfect for trail running, mountain biking and fast alpine ascent.

Heralded as the most breathable Gore-Tex ever, the Active Shell is designed to be worn next to the skin or over a high-wicking baselayer.

The secret is in a new membrane, significantly thinner than normal but still totally waterproof. The unique laminate technology integrates a backer textile directly into a Gore-Tex membrane, allowing for extreme breathability and excellent next-to-skin comfort.

It works by combining the latest Gore-Tex technology with the thinnest of skins, to make a superb shell with more room to breathe than ever before.

Maximum desired weight will be just 280 grams for an Active Shell jacket.

Watch this space – and make sure you’ll be amongst the first to preview the new Active Shell range.

Brands to feature this new break-through material in the autumn will include Berghaus, Mammut, Peak Performance, and Adidas.