GORE-TEX 101
GORE-TEX is synonymous with reliable storm protection. Gore pioneered the waterproof, breathable membrane technology that dominates the outerwear we all use, but understanding all of the GORE-TEX options takes some research.
How much do you know about all of the GORE-TEX varieties? Read on to learn the details about the GORE-TEX variations and the latest on the newest GORE-TEX PRO options, the highest-performing membrane in Gore’s product line.
GORE-TEX is a Laminate
GORE-TEX is a material made by laminating a waterproof yet microporous membrane to a face fabric. The actual GORE-TEX membrane is incredibly thin and allows water vapor to pass out while not allowing water in. There are three primary GORE-TEX constructions:
2-Layer (2L) – Uses a two-layer sandwich of face fabric with the GORE membrane laminated to it on the inside plus a non-laminated lining layer — often mesh, nylon or microfiber that serves to protect the GORE membrane and creates a comfortable feel inside the jacket. GORE-TEX 2L can be paired with insulation and is generally warmer, heavier, and less expensive than 3L or 2.5L versions.
2.5-Layer (2.5L) – Uses a two-layer sandwich of a face fabric with the GORE membrane laminated and a spray-on or printed backer on the inside. This “half layer” on the inside appears almost unnoticeable but adds durability to the membrane. 2.5L GORE-TEX is the lightest of the three traditional GORE waterproof, breathable constructions.
3-Layer (3L) – Uses a three-layer sandwich of a face fabric+membrane+knit backer — all laminated together. GORE-TEX 3L construction is the classic unlined, uninsulated, high-performance shell jacket design. Despite its three-layer name, it feels like a single layer. It’s the most durable of the three constructions and is lighter than 2L.
Which GORE-TEX is for You?
Generally speaking, GORE-TEX 2L is most appropriate for all-purpose resort use. The best option for backcountry skiing is GORE-TEX 3L. But GORE-TEX 3L is available in various performance levels: PRO, Paclite, Paclite +, Active, C-Knit Backer and SHAKEDRY. PRO is the most durable version of GORE-TEX. Paclite is all about being lightweight and packable. Paclite+ is a more durable version of Paclite. Active is the most breathable version. 3-Layer with C-Knit backer features stretch to the fabric. And GORE SHAKEDRY is the lightest and most breathable, but it’s also less durable. Read more about ultra-light GORE SHAKEDRY.
Most GORE-TEX outerwear for skiing is either GORE-TEX 2L or 3L, PRO (3L) or Active (3L) or 3L with C-Knit Backer. GORE-TEX Paclite (2.5L) and SHAKEDRY are typically specialty styles used for running and cycling. They can be used for skiing, but they are less durable than the 2L and 3L alternatives.
Finally, there is GORE INFINIUM, which is not waterproof. GORE INFINIUM is a windproof, highly breathable and very water-resistant laminate. It’s essentially the evolution of GORE Windstopper. It’s used in gloves, jackets and pants. It’s well-suited to ski touring and mountaineering because of its breathability, but it’s not 100% waterproof.
GORE PRO 2.0
PRO is GORE’s most durable construction. And by durable, we’re talking durable weather resistance plus overall material durability. Until recently, the nature of the GORE PRO membrane meant it was paired with burly fabrics that made for a stiff, crinkly material with a somewhat heavier feel. At the same time, the other GORE products evolved to be lighter and feature a more natural moving feel.
Now, GORE has applied much of the same lighter, stretchier, more breathable tech to their PRO level membrane and has three distinct GORE PRO 2.0 variations: PRO rugged, PRO stretch and PRO breathable. The breathable and stretch varieties use lighter materials without compromising on the durability of the PRO products, while the rugged variation is even more rugged than ever.
In other words, GORE PRO is evolving to have more stretch, be more breathable and provide greater durability than previous versions — all while being lighter and offering a more natural-moving feel than older versions. All three PRO variations can be combined into a single jacket or pair of pants to cater to its end use. For example, a jacket could feature stretch across the back, increased breathability in the core, and rugged durability in the sleeves.
Choosing the Right GORE-TEX Jacket for Backcountry Skiing
While I strongly advocate for backcountry skiing in softshells and other breathable outerwear options as much as possible, I always pack a waterproof, breathable shell for windy ridge tops, storm days and as a backup layer. The first step to choosing the right GORE-TEX backcountry ski jacket is understanding the various waterproof, breathable techs on the market. There are many options, but GORE is generally regarded as the standard to which all others are measured. The basics behind 2L, 2.5L and 3L construction apply to all brands of waterproof, breathable membranes, not just GORE.
Armed with the knowledge of GORE-TEX levels and construction types, choosing the right jacket for backcountry skiing comes down to a few easy-to-consider factors:
Weight – If you have the luxury of choosing a dedicated touring shell, the lighter, the better. Minimalist 3L jackets or 2.5L designs and even hybrid softshell/GORE variations are the constructions of choice for backcountry skiing. If you need a ski jacket that will handle lift-serve and backcountry, GORE PRO is a good choice but not the lightest. Regular 3L will also be more affordable. There are plenty of 3L jackets with lift-serve features like snow skirts, adjustable cuffs, and more pockets, but they will be heavier than a minimalist GORE-TEX 3L backcountry shell.
Breathability – Breathability makes a difference. GORE Active and GORE PRO breathe better than standard GORE options. Adding pit-zip vents makes a big difference, but zippers add weight and bulk. Look for hybrid designs that use 3L GORE-TEX in high-impact areas and more breathable, water-resistant materials (like GORE INFINIUM) to enhance breathability where needed most.
Design simplicity – There is beauty in design simplicity. It also directly impacts weight and packability. The more zippers, pockets, powder skirts, velcro flaps, and corded adjustments, the more weight, bulk and stuff to deal with during transitions. Keep it simple, and keep it light is our advice.
Less is more when it comes to GORE-TEX jackets for backcountry skiing. Look for a stripped-down, minimalist 3L design with two pockets and limited other features.
GORE-TEX Ski Jackets Made for the Backcountry
Here’s a collection of GORE-TEX waterproof jackets designed with backcountry skiing in mind:
Dynafit Free GTX Jacket – $599
Bomber GORE-TEX 3L jacket, 19oz. Features a C-Knit Backer for light stretch throughout the shell—a solid choice for all-purpose backcountry use.
Arcteryx Beta LT Jacket – $399
Arcteryx’s lightest GORE-TEX 3L shell at 14oz. This is a clean, simple GORE 3L shell. It’s the choice of minimalists and gram counters.
Norrona Lyngen Jacket – $589
Clean, simple, GORE-TEX 3L shell, 13oz. Features GORE-TEX Active and C-Knit backer for increased breathability and a natural-flexing feel. It’s a classic shell worthy of day tours and expedition wear alike.
Patagonia Triolet – $399
GORE 3L shell, 19oz. This is a solid choice for chronic users who want a clean but thoughtful design. There’s a minor weight penalty at 190z, but when it comes to staying dry day in and day out, it’s hard to beat GORE-TEX 3L.
MADE Custom Ski Jacket – $550+ Always dreamed about a made-to-measure ski jacket for the perfect fit? Check out MADE Custom Technical Apparel. You choose the materials and design features you want, and MADE builds your jacket to match your body measurements. For touring, their Polartec NeoShell® jacket is the way to go.
Learn about Durable Water Repellancy (DWR): What is a DWR treatment, and how do you renew your jacket’s DWR
Read about the best mid-layers for backcountry skiing:
Arcteryx Proton Hybrid Hoodie – Lightweight, breathable backcountry ski jacket
Layering for Backcountry Skiing – Base and mid-layer tips and picks
What’s the Best Mid-Layer for Backcountry Skiing – Our favorite mid-layers
Outdoor Research Deviator Hoodie – Versatile mid-layer for the skin track
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