GORE-TEX in JALAS Footwear: The Ultimate Waterproof Solution for All Work Environments

Discover how GORE-TEX technology truly works and why it's the perfect match for JALAS footwear. In this blog post, we'll explore the science behind GORE-TEX's exceptional waterproofing and breathability, and how JALAS incorporates this innovative material to create footwear that offers unmatched comfort, protection, and durability.

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We recently had the opportunity to sit down with Bohuslav Bušik, Product Manager at JALAS, to discuss our innovative GORE-TEX models. During our conversation, Bohuslav shared valuable insights into our approach, explaining that rather than creating a standalone waterproof collection, we integrate this advanced technology into several of our popular lines, including JALAS Exalter and JALAS Heavy Duty. Currently, we offer five GORE-TEX models, each featuring the waterproof GORE-TEX membrane and providing three levels of insulation to suit various climates and warmth requirements. Bohuslav also hinted at exciting developments ahead, revealing that we have more models in the making. These upcoming models will continue to expand our range, ensuring that we meet the diverse needs of our customers while maintaining the high standards of protection and comfort that JALAS is known for.

Bohuslav Bušik

Product Manager at JALAS

The Ultimate Breathable GORE-TEX Safety Shoe

Designed for warm weather and mixed outdoor/indoor activities, the JALAS ^® EXALTER 9968 GTX offers the perfect balance of durability and breathability. With its GORE-TEX membrane, this shoe is durably waterproof while remaining highly breathable. Non-insulated for optimal heat dissipation, it's the ideal choice for keeping your feet cool, dry, and comfortable in any environment.

JALAS ^® Medium-Insulated GORE-TEX Models

The JALAS Exalter 9988 GTX, JALAS Exalter 9998 GTX, and JALAS 1988 Chainsaw GTX are designed to offer versatile protection in a variety of conditions. These models are durably waterproof and breathable, thanks to GORE-TEX technology. They feature medium insulation, making them ideal for a broad range of temperatures and changing weather.

The Ultimate Winter Boot

The JALAS Heavy Duty1398 Winter GTX is designed to be the ultimate winter boot, offering durable waterproofing and breathability while providing high insulation for maximum heat retention. Perfect for cold weather and outdoor winter activities, this boot ensures your feet stay warm with its fully furry lining, extending even underneath the insole. The JALAS 1398 GTX is built to keep you comfortable and warm.

Understanding the Distinction Between 'Waterproof' and 'Water-Repellent'

The terms "waterproof" and "water-repellent" describe different levels of protection against water. "Water-repellent" means that the material resists water penetration to some extent but does not completely stop it. This type of material is often treated to repel water temporarily and is suitable for simpler environments and limited exposure to moisture.

In contrast, "waterproof" means that the material does not allow any water to penetrate. For a product to be labeled as waterproof, it must undergo rigorous testing to prove its effectiveness. According to EN:511 standards, this involves submerging the product in water for 5 minutes. The product must remain completely dry inside by the end of the test to be certified as waterproof.

Water-repellent materials provide adequate protection for many daily activities, but they do not offer complete protection. On the other hand, waterproof materials, like the GORE-TEX membrane used in JALAS safety footwear, provide superior protection by ensuring that no water penetrates, keeping your feet dry in any environment.

Building on the distinction between "waterproof" and "water-repellent," it’s important to understand the specific standards that indicate a shoe’s water protection capabilities. These standards help you quickly identify the level of protection offered by different footwear:

WPA - Water Penetration and Absorption: This standard focuses on the upper part of the shoe. If a shoe meets the WRU standard, it means the material has been tested to ensure that water penetration does not exceed 0.2g after 60 minutes. This provides a basic level of protection against water.

WR - Water Resistance: Shoes that meet the WR standard have undergone more comprehensive testing. This standard ensures that the entire shoe is water-resistant, with the inside of the footwear staying completely dry after 80 minutes of exposure.

GORE-TEX - Durably Waterproof: For the highest level of water protection, GORE-TEX sets the benchmark. Footwear labeled as GORE-TEX has passed rigorous testing, including a wet flex test of at least 300,000 movements and a centrifuge test lasting a minimum of 60 minutes. This ensures that the footwear offers superior protection, far beyond basic water-repellent or water-resistant standards.

The GORE-TEX Centrifug Test

Each JALAS GTX model must undergo the stringent Gore Centrifuge Test to ensure waterproofness. During this test the shoes are filled with water and spun at 250 ±5 turns per minute (TPM) for a minimum of 60 minutes. To pass, no water should escape from the shoe during the test, confirming its superior waterproof integrity.

The Wet Flex Test

The Wet Flex Test is used to assess the waterproofness of GORE-TEX footwear. In this test, shoes are placed on flexible artificial feet equipped with sensors, which simulate up to 300,000 steps in a water bath (depending on the cluster). This simulates conditions similar to a 500 km hike through wet meadows or streams.

How the GORE-TEX Membrane Works

The GORE-TEX membrane in JALAS safety footwear is engineered to ensure waterproofing while maintaining breathability. This advanced membrane features microscopic pores that are smaller than water droplets but larger than water vapor molecules. This unique structure allows the membrane to effectively block water from entering while permitting moisture from perspiration to escape, keeping your feet dry both from external sources and from internal perspiration.

Layers of Protection:

Upper Material: Provides durability and initial water resistance.
GORE-TEX Membrane: Ensures waterproofing and breathability.
Protective (non-woven) Knit: Adds an extra layer of protection and comfort.
Inner (textile) Lining: Offers additional comfort and helps manage internal moisture.

The Importance of Top-Quality Materials in JALAS GTX Footwear

JALAS GTX models are crafted using top-quality materials throughout the entire shoe to ensure maximum warmth and comfort. Every component, from the upper materials to the webbings, threads, and more, is carefully selected and rigorously tested in the laboratory to meet GORE-TEX ^® standards. These tests include assessments of water repellency, breathability, and water-wicking behavior.

Bohuslav Bušik, Product Manager at JALAS, emphasizes the importance of these materials: “Even with a waterproof GORE-TEX membrane inside, it is crucial that the outer materials do not absorb water. If water were to penetrate these materials, it wouldn’t pass through the GORE-TEX membrane, but it would make the shoe heavier and significantly reduce its breathability. Wet materials lose their ability to keep your feet warm, leading to discomfort and a cold, ‘wet socks’ feeling, even if your feet remain dry.”

This is why JALAS prioritizes using only the highest-quality materials that resist water absorption, ensuring that your feet stay warm, dry, and comfortable in any conditions.

Breathability and Socks

At JALAS, breathability is a top priority. Our shoes are tested on artificial feet that "sweat" in a climate chamber to measure moisture vapor transfer, ensuring they exceed the minimum quality standards. We've even surpassed GORE-TEX breathability requirements to keep your feet comfortable and dry.

Socks also play a key role in shoe performance. We recommend wool or wool blend socks for the best moisture management and breathability. Synthetic fibers with moisture-wicking properties are also a good alternative.

BOA ^® Fit System

JALAS incorporates the BOA ^® Fit System for its quick, precise, and secure adjustments, ensuring a perfect fit every time. This system enhances comfort and support, making our footwear ideal for demanding work environments. The JALAS 1398 GTX model even features two BOA ^® dials—one for the shoe and one for the shaft—offering a customized fit for both foot and ankle, perfect for adapting to different work situations.