GORE-TEX® ePE | Material Guide

GORE-TEX®
MEMBRANE
GORE-TEX® EPE

GORE-TEX® ePE fabrics represent a new generation of membrane technology designed to deliver durable waterproof, windproof and breathable protection with a reduced environmental impact. This next-generation construction is developed without intentionally added PFAS. The membrane is made from expanded polyethylene (ePE), a lightweight and thin yet strong material that prevents water from penetrating while allowing moisture vapor to escape, helping you stay dry and comfortable in changing conditions.

The ePE membrane operates through a micro-porous structure, where billions of microscopic pores are small enough to block liquid water droplets yet large enough to allow water vapor molecules to pass through, enabling efficient moisture management during high-output activity. Unlike traditional ePTFE-based GORE-TEX membranes, the ePE construction eliminates the need for PFAS-based chemistry in the membrane layer itself, addressing one of the primary environmental concerns associated with high-performance waterproof textiles.

The fabric system is engineered to meet GORE-TEX's established performance benchmarks, including resistance to hydrostatic pressure and sustained breathability under prolonged use, ensuring that the shift toward more responsible material chemistry does not compromise technical performance in demanding on-water conditions.