US Army: eVent Fabric Twice As Breathable In Tests

"The US Army’s Natick tests of waterproof-breathable laminates reported that eVENT fabric proved to be the most breathable of all materials tested, averaging twice the breathability of its closest competitor."


What differentiates eVENT fabric technology from other ePTFE-based waterproof-breathable laminates?

Lately, we have had a number of questions about the breathability of Showers Pass Elite 2.0 Jackets and eVent Pants. Here to follow in this blog is a summary of eVent vs other polyurethane breathable fabrics. Check out our Showers Pass selection here

Open-pored ePTFE membranes have been used in waterproof apparel applications for over 25 years. But they have been used in a “bi-component” fashion that covered the open pores with a layer of polyurethane (PU). This PU layer reduced inherent breathability by inhibiting the free escape of perspiration vapor. The eVENT fabric approach is different and avoids the use of that polyurethane layer. Explains Vishal Bansal, Director of Product Development for eVENT fabrics: “Rather than take an open-pore membrane and turn it into a closed-pore laminate, our patented process lets us retain the natural venting ability of all those microscopic pores.”

The US Army’s Natick tests of waterproof-breathable laminates reported that eVENT fabric, a patented ePTFE-based membrane produced and marketed by BHA Technologies, Inc. proved to be the most breathable of all materials tested, averaging twice the breathability of its closest competitor. Testing included the likes of Gore-Tex XCR®, Sympatex®, and various other waterproof-breathable fabrics. “As a premium, technical brand, ground sought to utilize today’s top technologies to create our high-end apparel line,” stated ground’s CEO, Tucker Hacking. “After reviewing the government’s Natick testing we were sold on using eVENT fabric to achieve the technical pinnacle in our soft shell, hard shell and down product categories.”