True to their ‘Always Evolve’ tag line, Gore Wear has been busier than ever lately with new product and technologies. That’s said to be the result of a substantial reinvestment in their own research and development a few years ago, that is starting to pay dividends. This next chapter of Gore’s apparel division is highlighted by truly groundbreaking materials that will soon be found throughout the outdoor industry – not just in Gore Wear.
The evolution also includes a new branding and naming structure with all of Gore’s cycling and running clothing merging into the ‘Gore Wear’ brand. Going further still, winter ’18 will see Gore Wear’s fabric technologies split into two main categories – Gore-Tex for the fully waterproof gear, and Gore Infinium which will include the Windstopper, new Soft Line Shell, and other Gore technologies.
Part of that new Gore Infinium range is their new Soft Line Shell fabric. Sort of the evolution of Windstopper and soft shells, Soft Line Shell uses Gore Shakedry fabric for the outer face, and a unique backer on the inside for improved moisture transfer. There will actually be a few different backers depending on the application with some offering more insulation than others.
When used in pieces like this new running soft shell that will debut this fall, the Soft Line Shell fabric is not taped at the seams which will still provide a very water resistant, almost waterproof shell, but one that breathes even better. The combination will make it lighter and more breathable than other soft shell jackets in its class.
The jacket has a looser fit with two front pockets and a built in hood, and should sell for $300 when it is available this September.
On the cycling side, Gore Wear will offer this new 1985 Shakedry Insulated jacket in September as well.
Built with a waterproof, seam sealed Shakedry outer skin and Polartec Alpha insulation, the jacket feels incredibly light for something that should provide a lot of warmth. Gore states that with the breathability of both the Shakedry and Polartec Alpha, this jacket will be ideal for winter conditions even if it’s not raining. Based on the fit of the Shakedry 1985, the jacket will run $350 when available.
