From the very beginning the GORE-TEX brand has been committed to supporting the passions that keep people moving.
Since 1976, Gore’s technologies have been part of countless adventures around the globe—and even on the moon. And with an enormous amount of energy, resources, and dedication, we continue to innovate with new technologies and solutions.
1958
THE START OF SOMETHING SPECIAL
Gore founders Bill and Vieve
Wilbert L. (Bill) and Genevieve (Vieve) Gore launch Gore in the basement of their home in Newark, Delaware. Bill left his job at DuPont to pursue what he believes is the untapped potential of the PTFE (polymer polytetrafluoroethylene).
1969
A DISCOVERY THAT CHANGES EVERYTHING
Bob discovers the power of expanded PTFE.
ePTFE, or expanded polytetrafluoroethylene, is created by Bill’s son Bob Gore when he rapidly stretches PTFE under certain conditions. The result is an incredibly strong, microporous material with an amazing list of characteristics, including low water adsorption and good weathering properties.
1970
THE VERY FIRST PATENTS
A microscopic view of ePTFE.
Gore applies for what will become the first of many patents for product technologies made with Gore's signature polymer ePTFE (expanded polytetrafluoroethylene).
1976
FIRST COMMERCIAL ORDERS
Outdoor enthusiasts wearing the first GORE-TEX jackets.
Gore receives its first commercial order for GORE-TEX fabric — the first breathable, waterproof, and windproof fabric on the market.
1979
SEAM-SEALED PROTECTION INTRODUCED
New GORE-SEAM® tape sealing a GORE-TEX jacket.
GORE-SEAM® sealing machines and GORE-SEAM® tape are introduced, adding greater waterproof protection capabilities.
1980
THE RANGE OF PRODUCTS EXPANDS
A skier wears GORE-TEX Gloves.
Commercial introduction of a 2-layer fabric, and a waterproof, windproof, and breathable insert for gloves.
1981
TO THE MOON AND BACK
A spacesuit made using GORE-TEX fiber.
NASA's first space shuttle mission—Space Shuttle Columbia—carries astronauts wearing spacesuits made with GORE-TEX fabric.
1982
THE INNOVATION CONTINUES
GORE-TEX fabric bootie submerged in water for testing.
Commercial introduction of GORE-TEX Z-liner constructions—offering excellent comfort in a wide range of styles—and the first GORE-TEX fabric bootie is created.
1989
INTRODUCING: A PROMISE TO RELY ON
Simulated rain tests a GORE-TEX jacket for waterproofness
The famous GORE-TEX GUARANTEED TO KEEP YOU DRY® promise is introduced, offering peace of mind to customers around the world.
1990
TO THE EDGES OF THE WORLD
Expedition team in Antarctica.
An international expedition team in Antarctica wears GORE-TEX outerwear while traversing the continent. One explorer credits the fabric with saving his life.
1998
ADVENTURES EASIER TO PACK FOR
GORE-TEX PACLITE® product technology.
Commercial introduction of GORE-TEX PACLITE® product technology offers people lighter, more packable jackets.
2003
WARMER, DRIER HANDS
A skier wearing GORE-TEX XCR® Gloves.
Commercial introduction of GORE-TEX XCR® Gloves—for waterproof, breathable, and windproof protection in a wide range of conditions.
2006
GORE-TEX PRO GARMENTS INTRODUCED
A climber wearing a jacket with GORE-TEX Pro product technology.
Commercial introduction of GORE-TEX Pro product technology, and GORE-TEX Gloves with Gore 2 in 1 Technology.
2010
AN EVER-GROWING RANGE OF PRODUCTS
GORE-TEX SURROUND® Footwear in action.
Commercial introduction of GORE-TEX Active garments, and GORE-TEX SURROUND® Footwear.
2016
GORE-TEX SHAKEDRY GARMENTS LAUNCHED
A cyclist wear a GORE-TEX SHAKEDRY garment.
GORE-TEX Active jackets with SHAKEDRY™ product technology are super light, extremely breathable, and prevent water absorption with their persistent beading outer surface.
2017
RUNNING WITH GUARANTEED PROTECTION
GORE-TEX Invisible Fit footwear
GORE-TEX Invisible Fit product technology: is launched our waterproof, windproof, and very breathable membrane is invisibly integrated into a wide range of athletic shoes.
2018
THE GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ PRODUCTS RANGE LAUNCHES
GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ products range in action.
The GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ products range is launched around the world. Designed for a wide variety of conditions—when comfort and performance take priority over waterproofness.
Today
INNOVATION THAT KEEPS ON GOING
Hikers wearing GORE-TEX outerwear take a break.
The GORE-TEX brand now supports more active lives than ever before—and there’s lot more innovation to come. Watch this space.
