MILIPOL 2023: Stretch technology from GORE-TEX

Military operations are challenging. Soldiers have to run, climb, crawl, shoot – in all weather conditions in rugged terrain. It is therefore important that they can move freely and stay dry and warm. The GORE-TEX Stretch Technology, an innovative combination of durable, breathable hardshell material and stretch components, is the first textile technology for military clothing that reduces thermal stress and allows for maximum freedom of movement. This was confirmed by a fitness-for-use test in a simulated reconnaissance mission carried out by former special forces. Military procurement is also convinced: Several special units are testing the material in operations, with one already placing the first order.

Protection against overheating and improved freedom of movement are top priorities for soldiers when it comes to operational clothing. This is confirmed by numerous surveys conducted by Gore among members of various military units. With the GORE-TEX Stretch Product Technology, the specialist for technical functional textiles achieves a milestone in comfort and protection: It consists of elastic components between a membrane and robust polyamide outer textile. This innovative material offers up to 20 percent elasticity and is ideal for clothing with close-fitting cuts. The closer fit reduces air chambers between the body and clothing. Compared to previous military operational clothing, breathability is up to 25 percent better. In addition to significantly improved temperature regulation, the material is more comfortable to wear and can easily be combined with additional layers of clothing without restricting freedom of movement. The GORE-TEX Stretch Product Technology is also permanently waterproof and windproof.

Trial by Fire: Fitness-for-Use Test in Snow, Rain, and Wind

How does the technology perform when it matters? Two former special forces soldiers tested the GORE-TEX Stretch Defense Rain Suit both on the course and during a two-day simulated reconnaissance mission in the mountains in the most severe weather conditions ranging from -5 to -1 degrees Celsius. The soldiers tested the flexibility of the GORE-TEX Stretch rain suit in terrain with slopes, undergrowth, and wet snow. The test showed that the protective clothing significantly aids movement in the mountains, at times climbing and crawling. The material regulates body temperature in the face of physical exertion. Despite the long deployment, there was no need to dry or change protective clothing – a significant advantage in real operational situations without the ability to change.

Oliver Opitz, Product Specialist at GORE-TEX Professional for armed forces, emphasizes: "In this fitness-for-use test, the GORE-TEX Stretch Technology demonstrated its capabilities: protection and comfort in extreme weather conditions combined with maximum freedom of movement. Our test subjects were very impressed, which aligns with the feedback from many special forces so far." ALL INFORMATION about GORE-TEX Stretch directly from GORE-TEX PROFESSIONAL.

GORE-TEX Professional (Gore) presents the GORE-TEX Stretch technology for armed forces at Milipol 2023 in Paris (November 14-17, 2023) at booth 5 C 110.

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