THE HISTORY OF OUR FAVORITE RUGGED MATERIAL

 Gore-Tex, a revolutionary fabric in the outdoor industry, has a rich history dating back to its invention in 1969. This material, known for its durability, waterproof, windproof, and breathable qualities, transformed outdoor apparel and equipment. The membrane's over 9 billion microscopic pores provide optimal protection against the elements while ensuring comfort, making it a game-changer for outdoor enthusiasts.

The journey of Gore-Tex began in the family basement of chemical engineer Bill Gore and his wife Vieve in 1958. Their work led to the discovery of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) by their son Bob Gore (seen below), a material known for its vapor permeability and liquid proofing. This innovation led to the first Gore-Tex products hitting the market in the 1970s, including jackets equipped with the material.

The versatility of Gore-Tex has seen its application beyond just rainwear, impacting various industries from medical to space exploration. It has evolved over the years, with products like GORE-TEX Active for high-energy activities and GORE-TEX Pro for extreme conditions, constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in outdoor gear.

At PHIPPS, we've harnessed the power of Gore-Tex in our Punk Rain Shell jackets. These jackets embody the PHIPPS ethos of sustainability, craftsmanship, and ruggedness, blending state-of-the-art technology with our commitment to environmental responsibility. Our use of upcycled Gore-Tex, a practice which helps keep the material out of landfills and avoids the production of new material, ensures not only superior performance in harsh weather conditions but also aligns with our vision of sustainable and high-quality fashion. 

PHIPPS PUNK RAIN SHELL — MADE FROM UPCYCLED GORE-TEX

The Punk Rain Shell jackets are a testament to our ongoing quest to combine innovation with conscious design, offering our the PHIPPS wearer a piece of outdoor apparel that is as environmentally mindful as it is technically proficient.

Gore-Tex's history is a story of innovation and transformation, and its integration into the PHIPPS catalog represents our dedication to advancing sustainable fashion, all while providing unparalleled protection and comfort to the adventurous and  sustainably-minded.