December 12, 2000


Where can I find Gore-Tex designed for sailors?

I recently discovered that Gore-Tex makes fabrics specifically designed for sailors: Ocean Technology and Coastal Fabric. I cannot find out where garments made from either of these fabrics can be purchased. Can you help?

— Joyce Staroszik Calgary, Alberta, Canada

You're quite right, Joyce—the Gore folks make several fabrics most outdoors people probably aren't aware of. Ocean Technology and Coastal Fabric are both designed for serious sailing garments. Ocean Technology is the heaviest stuff, for ocean-going sailors, with the slightly lighter Coastal Fabric designed for trips closer to shore. Another fabric, Immersion Technology, is found in waders, dry suits and other garments that will spend long periods of time in the water.

Which begs the question: Isn't Gore-Tex, Gore-Tex? Well, yes and no. On the one hand, the waterproof-breathable membrane is made of the same basic stuff— a fluoropolymer. But in the case of the seafaring and fishing stuff, the Gore folks manufacture and test the products to different specifications. In particular, Gore uses a thicker membrane, and laminates it to tougher fabrics for Ocean Technology, Coastal Fabric, and Immersion Technology. Testing is also a little different. Wader manufacturers who use Immersion Technology, for instance, have to test the waders by filling them completely with water, then checking for leaks. Makers of garments with Ocean Technology and Coastal Fabric test extensively to ensure their designs repel spray well, among other things.

So that's part of the issue. The other is to find where you can buy this stuff. One place to start would be to call the Gore customer service line: 1-800-431-GORE (4673). Check as well with marine supply stores that carry clothing from Kokatat, Henry Lloyd, Musto and Douglas Gill. U.S. retailers include West Marine and Team One Newport; surely some retail stores in water-happy Vancouver would have what you need.

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