Just as the freezing rain begins to fall? Not if you use GORE-TEX products. Nor will you ever have to sacrifice comfort for functionality. With GORE® C-KNIT™ Backer Technology, the GORE-TEX brand offers up products that are softer, measurably lighter, and most importantly, just as durable as previous 3-layer GORE-TEX fabrics. That means jackets that are light and comfortable, but also windproof, waterproof and breathable, year after year. Found in jackets and pants, GORE® C-KNIT™ Backer Technology fuses together three layers of material so that hikers, trekkers, and freeriders can stay dry, without adding bulk. Protection starts from the inside out with an inner layer—the backer—made from a dense, extremely thin circular knit to form a less bulky, patent-pending laminate. This thin fabric is soft and smooth, so you'll easily be able to slip your outer layers over your inner ones, without any snagging or stuffing.

We got feedback and information around what consumers are looking for, seeking and expecting: softer, lighter weight, and more breathable."

"From our own consumer and market research, we got feedback and information around what consumers are looking for, seeking and expecting: softer, lighter weight, and more breathable," says Christian Mayer, W.L. Gore & Associates product specialist. "The backer simply contributes to optimize the wearing comfort of a garment, gives a different hand and drape to a garment, and allows consumers to not be distracted and stay focused on what they are intending to do." Then comes the waterproof, windproof and breathable membrane made from ePTFE, backed by the GUARANTEED TO KEEP YOU DRY® promise, followed by a smooth nylon outer fabric that ranges in thickness depending on the intended use and activity. Bottom line: Whatever your adventure, however hard you push yourself, count on being comfortable and, of course, warm and dry. In fact, in tests of clothing made with GORE® C-KNIT™ Backer Technology, breathability increased by up to fifteen percent and weight was reduced by as much as ten percent. Stats might not matter to an outdoor enthusiast, but what does matter is the high range of mobility and protection during a hard day of riding or a wet day on the trail. Get your first look at the GORE® C-KNIT™ Backer Technology product line.