What you may or may not know about GORE-TEX product care. According to a survey by Gore Japan LLC, among GORE-TEX product users, 53% users wash their GORE-TEX products regularly, while 23% users do not wash their GORE-TEX products at all. Which is the right answer, and how should they take care of their products in the first place? To answer these questions, a joint talk show was held by representatives from Gore Japan LLC, ARC'TERYX, THE NORTH FACE, Patagonia, and Panasonic. The NORTH FACE, Patagonia, and Panasonic held a joint talk show.
In conclusion, GORE-TEX products can be washed; in fact, it is better to wash them after use. The water-repellent groups, which are originally in a raised state, are gradually laid down due to factors such as dirt, dust, and abrasion each time the garment is worn. When this happens, the water repellent function declines. The fabric on the right in the photo above has water-repellent groups standing up, while the one on the left has water-repellent groups lying down. In comparison, the water repellency is obvious.
Mr. Murota, Manager of After Sales/Reverd Manager at Arc'teryx, adds, "When we look at garments brought to the rebadging counter (a dedicated repair counter), unwashed garments tend to have a shorter product life. Critical damage that cannot be repaired is also more common in unwashed garments," he adds. This is because the sebum and oil on the garment can cause the seam tape to peel and the fabric to delaminate.
Many people think that washing causes damage to clothing. Many people think so, but "not washing" causes more damage than "washing". Regular washing leads to longer life of the garment, and prolonging the usage period of the product leads to minimizing the impact on the environment.
Normally, water repellency is restored by ironing with a cloth or applying heat with a hair dryer after washing/drying, but the "water repellency restoration course" of Panasonic's LX series can easily and evenly restore water repellency.
Recommended washing methods vary from brand to brand, but basically, following the washing label is fine. We recommend regular care to maintain the original performance of GORE-TEX® products.
