The Milipol show in Paris is a key place for networking and exchanging latest innovations and future defence trends. Gore Associates Isabelle Lefevre and Dominique Bruyen, experts in the French military market, share their insights about trends in garments and footwear and how innovations from GORE-TEX Professional can help.
What are the current garment trends in the French military?
Isabelle Lefevre: Ergonomics is a priority issue: softer materials, cuts that fit closer to the body, and that adapt to movement.
Fire protection is recurring need: this protection must not compromise durability and comfort.
Intercompatibility of equipment: it's important that new equipment is compatible with all the others.
What is the biggest need for garment protection of soldiers?
Isabell Lefevre: As operating grounds have moved to a continental climate, there is a need for protection against wet, cool to very cold weather.
Protecting against the cold without inducing discomfort is essential: the layers of clothing worn by the soldier must be adapted to each other in terms of ergonomics and thermal comfort.
How can GORE-TEX Professional support the French soldiers through innovative technologies?
Dominique Bruyen: The footwear must be fore the military, light but robust, offering a high level of protection, ergonomics and climate, and in which comfort and safety suffer no compromise. Today's French army sources its footwear from manufacturers of the highest quality. We are particularly proud to work closely with them to constantly improve the products.
GORE-TEX Professional launches new EXTRAGUARD upper material for defence use: how will this support the soldiers?
Dominique Bruyen: Until now, we've offered a range of linings (with different levels of insulation) and adapted technologies. Now we're breaking new ground with a highly resistant, lightweight, waterproof and breathable upper material that doesn't absorb water even in extreme wet conditions. Its use on the upper of the shoe, instead of a traditional construction, provides even more durable waterproofing and saves a considerable amount of weight. The shoes will be much lighter, and will stay light.
Protection in cold environment is a key requirement: How can GORE-TEX Professional support the French soldiers through innovative material?
Dominique Bruyen: It's very important for us to understand the end-use and the intended purpose. We have been working on thermal comfort and insulation for many years and are constantly looking for new solutions to meet changing needs. New materials and technologies mean that our footwear offers lasting insulation without increasing volume, while remaining very light. Our aim is to offer optimum insulation even in extreme wet and cold conditions, while remaining highly tactical.
Visit us at MILIPOL in Paris and contact Isabelle (ilefevre@wlgore.com) and Dominique (dbruyen@wlgore.com) who will be at the booth to answer your questions.
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