Our History

    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 fiber.

    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.

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