KEY BENEFITS
Explore the high-level protective benefits of this technology application.
The highly breathable fabric enables perspiration to escape, helping to better maintain core body temperature.
Our protective barriers have been tested by more wash cycles than required by the industry standard, without leaking, tearing, or deterioration in protection.
Garments are engineered for protection against pathogens found in blood and body fluids.
As proven in our Pyroman and field tests, these barriers deliver thermal performance in the toughest conditions.
Emergencies can happen in any kind of weather - that's why GORE-TEX CROSSTECH® fabrics are durably waterproof as well as resistant to liquid chemicals commonly found at the fireground.
These barriers protect the wearer against windchill, allowing them to work comfortably outside for longer.
Wearing the appropriate protective gear when fighting fires is a life-critical decision. As well as protecting firefighters from the dangers of heat and flame, garments with a GORE-TEX CROSSTECH® barrier provide added protection against pathogens found in blood and body fluids as well as common fireground chemicals. Highly breathable gear allows sweat vapor to escape from inside the garment during physically demanding activities. These garments are specifically engineered to keep firefighters safe, comfortable and engaged for longer during emergencies.
Garments with GORE-TEX CROSSTECH® moisture barriers consist of an outer shell, a moisture barrier and a thermal liner. The thermal performance and breathability are determined by the layers selected. When moisture moves better within the layers, dry out time between calls is decreased and thermal protection is maintained better.
The moisture barrier forms an essential part of the structural firefighting garments, providing durable liquid penetration protection, while being breathable to let sweat escape.
When exposed to high heat, unique GORE-TEX CROSSTECH® moisture barriers will not burn or melt.
GORE-TEX CROSSTECH® product technology is tested in accordance with ISO 16604 procedure C / ASTM F 1671 SOP-12-013
Waterproofness: garments far exceed the requirements of EN 343 protective clothing - protection against rain and EN 14360 - protective clothing against rain - test method for ready made garments
Firefighters: EN 469 Protective clothing for firefighters - Performance requirements for protective clothing for firefighting activities
Description: When equipped with the lightweight Flameliner laminate, worn as the inner layer next to the skin, garments with a GORE-TEX CROSSTECH® moisture barrier provide heat and flame protection with optimised breathability. In this construction, the outer material and thermal barrier must be selected by Gore partners. The flexible Flameliner laminate is made up of an aramid and flame-retardant viscose blend liner combined with an ePTFE membrane.
Added benefits: The garments are constructed with a durable fabric which picks up less water. Garments made with this laminate are quick and easy to take on and off and are comfortable on the skin. Firefighters can rely on this level of garment technology to feel comfortable, dry and protected.
Norms & Standards: EN469 Level 2.
Ideal for: Structural firefighters.
Description: Firefighting garments containing the GORE-TEX CROSSTECH® Fireblocker laminate combine flexibility and outstanding protection with excellent value. The thermal protection is lightweight and long-lasting and can be adjusted to meet the specific needs of the wearer without changing any other components. The Fireblocker laminate is positioned between the inner lining and the outer shell.
Added benefits: The Fireblocker laminate is made up of an aramid non-woven fabric combined with an ePTFE membrane. The orientation of the laminate influences breathability and protection performance.
Norms & Standards: Outstanding heat and flame protection - EN 469 Level 2 or above.
Ideal for: Structural firefighters.
Description: When agility and moving fast is a critical part of the job, GORE-TEX CROSSTECH® AIRLOCK® laminates are ideal. This technology is a combination of a traditional moisture barrier and a non-textile insulation (air cushion) and therefore offers an optimum level of breathability, with lightweight thermal protection.
Added benefits: This clever system applies chemical-resistant and highly thermally stable silicone spacers to a thin, non-woven substrate that is permanently bonded to the GORE-TEX CROSSTECH® moisture barrier. The spacers create an insulating air cushion for lightweight and low-bulk garments. They remain stable even at high and low temperatures and will not crack. Moisture can escape quickly, reducing the risk of steam burns.
Norms & Standards: EN 469 Level 2.
Ideal for: Structural firefighters requiring exceptional agility.
Description: The GORE-TEX CROSSTECH® PARALLON® system is a revolutionary solution that delivers extremely high protection from radiant and convective heat, with significantly increased breathability, even in wet conditions. Its functionality remains consistent.
Added Benefits: The technology has been proven through testing to reduce the risk of burn injuries, including steam or wet burns.
Norms & Standards: EN 469 compliant.
Ideal for:
GORE-TEX CROSSTECH® PARALLON® System 600 is ideal for professional firefighters in tough, long-lasting emergencies, designed to deliver the highest protection against heat and flame, combined with the highest breathability.
GORE-TEX CROSSTECH® PARALLON® System 500 is ideal for structural firefighting in warmer, more humid climates and for firefighters who undertake technical rescue work wearing structural garments. It is lighter and improves wearer comfort but does not compromise protection.