What waterproof and breathable fabrics are used in custom technical wear clothing?

Waterproof and Breathable Fabrics for Custom Technical Wear

Custom technical wear uses several advanced waterproof and breathable fabric technologies. The most common are Gore-Tex, eVent, Pertex Shield, Polartec NeoShell, and PU-based membranes. Each uses either a microporous membrane that blocks liquid water while allowing vapor to escape or a hydrophilic membrane that transports moisture chemically.

Leading Fabric Technologies

• Gore-Tex (ePE) Industry standard, 20,000-28,000mm waterproof rating. PFAS-free since 2025.
• eVent Direct venting technology. Breathes without body heat. Great for high-output activities.
• Pertex Shield Lightweight 2.5-layer. ~20,000mm rating. Excellent packability and value.
• Polartec NeoShell Air-permeable membrane. Reduces clamminess. 10,000mm rating.
• PU Membranes Budget-friendly with 12,000-18,000mm ratings. Great for urban everyday use.

Construction Types

Waterproof fabrics come in three constructions: 2-layer (lightest), 2.5-layer (good balance), and 3-layer (most durable). For custom technical wear production, 3-layer laminates are recommended for longevity.

Case: TOUCHES DARK Technical Line

TOUCHES DARK manufactures premium technical outerwear using certified 3-layer laminates from Gore-Tex and eVent. Every jacket undergoes hydrostatic head testing. Contact us for bulk production inquiries or browse our technical outerwear catalog.

How to Choose

For urban commuter wear, PU membranes or Pertex Shield offer excellent value. For extreme conditions, Gore-Tex Pro 3-layer is unmatched. For fashion-forward pieces, Polartec NeoShell offers good performance with a softer feel.