What is the difference between Gore-Tex material and nylon material?

Answer 1

Gore-Tex is a laminate technology which for the most part is used as a waterproof breathable membrane. Nylon is a durable knit fabric. Usually Gore-Tex is laminated to nylon to produce tough waterproof products.

Gore-Tex also allows perspiration through whereas Nylon does not.

Answer 2

Gore-Tex has all the properties of nylon - tough, lightweight and waterproof. But Nylon doesn't allow water vapour to pass through. This is why Gore-Tex is better - it is 'breathable'. It lets water vapour pass through but stops rain drops passing to the inside.

Answer 3

Gore tex is a trademark for a specific fabric that is both waterproof and breathable.

Nylon is the name of a synthetic material, which happens to be easily formed into long filaments which can then be woven or knit, or spun with other materials. Nylon stockings and ripstop nylon or two examples of the nylon fabric. Gortex and Nylon are not strictly comparable since one is a trademark for a specific fabric, but many different fabrics can be made out of nylon, and objects as well, such as bushings and bearings.

Nylon is often used in rain-wear because it is nonabsorbent, strong, water repellent and inexpensive. Gore tex makes ideal rain-wear because it is breathable while nylon is not. For this reason it is more comfortable to wear, especially in cold, strenuous conditions where a build up of sweat could lead to hypothermia. Gore tex is a rather expensive fabric and is also a bit stiff. Nylon is inexpensive, light weight and drapes well so it is likely to remain popular for fashionable outerwear, while Gore tex is favored by serious outdoor enthusiasts.