Posted: 10/5/2010 12:29:29 PM EDT
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The Mfr of GoreTex has a definite, and simple procedure for washing the garments. Failure to follow this simple procedure can result in the pores of the goretex membrane becoming plugged, and thus rendering it totally impermeable, as opposed to breathable. Note that the mfr states "No fabric softener" in their instructions. http://www.gore-tex.com/remote/Satellite/content/care-center/washing-instructions
OTOH, a lot of used goretex is turned in because of inappropriate laundering. A few washings using the approved method might open the pores of the material, and cause the material to become breathable again. Note also that spray-on Durable Water Repellant (DWR) is required by the mfr for optimal performance of the garment. Wash-in water-repellants are specifically contraindicated. FWIW, you can use the spray-on DWR for most any outer garments. It should be noted that the mfr of ECWCS jackets has noted that the vertical seams alongside and including the front zipper and cover flap were inadequately taped at the factory, and may well leak. The solution to this problem is to obtain some seam-sealer compound from your local outdoors store or from REI/EMS/CampMor on the net, and apply it to the stitched areas, both inside and out. Done right the application is almost invisible, and corrects a serious construction flaw for very little cost. FWIW, I would do the same to all stitched areas on the jacket. YMMV. I can't provide a cite, but this info was obtained from an official report from the mfr to the Mil concerning the performance of the ECWCS coats in the field, and based on user feedback. Basically I stumbled across the report, and forgot to bookmark it. FWIW, I have sealed all the stitched seams on both my jacket and pants as a result of this info. Submitted for your consideration. |
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Quoted:
I recall reading the part about the lack of seam sealing in Infantry magazine in the 90's. They mentioned it was a problem with the earliest versions, and was corrected after they realized the error. IIRC, the article I read was fairly recent, although I can't swear to it. I have a Gen I ECWCS, but I don't wear it much; it's in the SHTF clothing stash, being cammo and all. I read the article, and seam-sealed every single seam on both pants and coat, inside and out. If there ever was a problem, it's solved now. The moral of the story, is if your ECWCS leaks along any seam, buy some seam-sealer and fix it for cheap. Launder it right, and spray some DWR on it from time to time. |