Gear Reviews
Chris Bray & Clark Carter
After three years of preparation, my expedition partner Clark Carter and I are about to continue our world-first expedition across the largely unexplored Victoria Island in the Arctic, alone and unsupported for 100 days. Every item on our equipment list has been carefully considered – if it’s not absolutely vital, then we don’t bring it: We’re already hauling over 100kgs of food each, so every extra gram hurts. It follows that because everything we take is critically important, we need to be sure that it’s the best of its kind available in the world. We can’t risk having anything break, under-perform or wear out - not only would it be a devastating waste of three years and over $100,000, but in the middle of the arctic, we depend on our gear to keep us alive.
Having used and abused GORE-TEX® products for over five years in all of my expeditions including untracked parts of Tasmania, sailing across the Southern Ocean and hauling kayaks/carts in the Arctic, I know I can trust GORE-TEX® fabric to do its job, and do its job brilliantly no matter what conditions I find myself in.
When it comes to durably staying dry and cutting out the wind - while also being breathable enough to continue giving it my all without getting clammy and sweaty – I have never found a product as invaluable as GORE-TEX® Fabric.
Whether it be the GORE-TEX® lining of my hiking boots, or my GORE-TEX® Pro Shell jackets or over pants, my GORE-TEX® Immersion Technology Drysuit, GORE-TEX® Ocean Technology rough weather sailing gear, or even my latest pride and joy – my all-in-one insulated GORE-TEX® Pro Shell jacket – when I pack my kit (or when I advise others about equipping theirs), I am always reassured by the GORE-TEX® logo. It doesn’t matter if it’s for a weekend outdoors or for a full-on expedition, bringing GORE-TEX® garments and footwear means I’ll feel both safer and more comfortable, and therefore enjoy the experience more. |
