GORE-TEX dans les chaussures JALAS : La solution imperméable ultime pour tous les environnements de travail
Découvrez comment la technologie GORE-TEX fonctionne vraiment et pourquoi elle convient à merveille à la chaussure JALAS. Dans cet article de blog, nous étudierons les principes scientifiques à la base de l’imperméabilité et de la respirabilité exceptionnelles du GORE-TEX, et la manière dont JALAS intègre ce matériau innovant pour créer des chaussures offrant un confort, une protection et une durabilité inégalés.
JALAS vu de l’intérieur - Élargir notre gamme GORE-TEX pour tous les climats
Nous avons récemment eu l'occasion de rencontrer Bohuslav Bušik, chef de produit chez JALAS, pour discuter de nos modèles GORE-TEX innovants. Au cours de notre conversation, Bohuslav a partagé des informations précieuses sur notre approche, expliquant qu’au lieu de créer une collection imperméable autonome, nous intégrons cette technologie avancée dans plusieurs de nos gammes populaires, notamment JALAS Exalter et JALAS Heavy Duty. Actuellement, nous proposons cinq modèles GORE-TEX, chacun doté de la membrane GORE-TEX imperméable et offrant trois niveaux d’isolation en fonction de différents climats et exigences de chaleur. Bohuslav a également évoqué les développements passionnants à venir, révélant que d’autres modèles sont en cours de fabrication. Ces modèles à venir continueront à étoffer notre gamme, en répondant aux divers besoins de nos clients tout en maintenant les normes élevées de protection et de confort qui font la réputation de JALAS.
Bohuslav Bušik
Product Manager at JALAS
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.
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.
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.
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.
Built for Breathability
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.
Medium Insulation
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.
THE JALAS GORE-TEX SELECTION
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JALAS® HEAVY DUTY 1288 GTX
Mid-cut boot with PFAS-free GORE-TEX membrane
Durable and metal-free safety boot with PFAS-free GORE-TEX membrane and ankle support.
JALAS® HEAVY DUTY 1298 GTX
High-cut boot with PFAS-free GORE-TEX membrane
Durable waterproof high-cut boot with PFAS-free GORE-TEX membrane, light insulation, and zipper.
JALAS® HEAVY DUTY 1398 WINTER GTX
A GORE-TEX boot for very cold winters.
A waterproof safety boot with GORE-TEX, ideal for a wet and very cold winter season.
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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. Discover JALAS Work Socks.
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.