[ISPO 2025 Report Vol.2] The Latest in Gore-Tex Technology
In this report, we introduce one of the standout products from the outdoor brand exhibition "ISPO" held in Germany: Patagonia's PowSlayer Jacket.
What is the PowSlayer Jacket?
The PowSlayer Jacket is a high-performance garment designed for backcountry use.
The key highlight is its adoption of the new Gore-Tex ePE film, used in the Pro model of its waterproof and breathable material.
Previously, Gore-Tex films were made of ePTFE, a composition that included fluorine.
However, considering environmental impact, the new ePE film has been developed.
While Arc'teryx was one of the first brands to adopt this ePE film, it had not yet been used in Gore-Tex Pro models designed for harsh backcountry conditions.
Now, Patagonia has taken the lead by incorporating Gore-Tex Pro with ePE film into its backcountry-specific gear.
Differences Between Gore-Tex ePTFE and ePE Films
What is ePTFE Film?
The conventional Gore-Tex ePTFE film has been widely used in outdoor waterproof gear, offering exceptional waterproofing and breathability.
It has been a trusted standard for extreme conditions, such as snowy mountains and heavy rain.
Advantages:
- High durability
- Excellent waterproofing
- Superior breathability
Challenges:
- High environmental impact during production
- Difficult to recycle
What is ePE Film?
The new ePE film is being hailed as the next-generation material to replace ePTFE.
Advantages:
- Features a microporous membrane similar to ePTFE, ensuring high breathability and waterproofing
- Does not use fluorine in production, reducing environmental impact
Particularly in the Pro model, the ePE film delivers both high waterproofing and durability, making it suitable for use in harsh environments.
Impact on the Market
The new Gore-Tex ePE film Pro model has not only been adopted by Patagonia but also by other brands like Marmot, as seen at this year’s ISPO.
This material is expected to gain traction and be adopted by more brands and products, influencing the entire outdoor gear market.
It’s exciting to see how this new Gore-Tex film will shape the future of outdoor wear.