The heat is sweltering, sweat is stinging your eyes, every move must be precise: in moments like these, climate comfort determines how long you can maintain your concentration and performance. What was often a compromise in the past – flame resistance on the one hand, lightness and breathability on the other – is now combined in the new PYRAD® product technology by GORE-TEX LABS®, complementing the GORE-TEX® brand’s product portfolio of flame-retardant, membrane-free laminates for military combat suits.
At ENFORCE TAC 2026 in Nuremberg, the GORE-TEX® brand will present the new PYRAD® product technology by GORE-TEX LABS® for flame-retardant combat suits in Hall 7A at Booth 7A-537.
Many conventional flame-retardant textiles usually present a dilemma: although they provide reliable protection against heat and flames, they are heavy, stiff, and hardly breathable. For soldiers, this means additional strain during operations—and in extreme cases, heat stress, restricted freedom of movement, and faster fatigue. The new generation of laminates featuring PYRAD® product technology by GORE-TEX LABS® solves this conflict of objectives: it offers protection against sudden flames and, thanks to its very low weight, high air permeability, and stretch content, ensures a more comfortable and cooler wearing experience – even under heavy equipment.
The way is clear for combat suits that can be used worldwide
“With this new technology, the GORE-TEX® brand is expanding its product portfolio of flame-retardant, membrane-free laminates for combat suits for ground forces, air force, and navy – and now covers all climate zones and mission profiles.
In addition to the robust generation for temperate to cool climates, a significantly lighter, more elastic solution is now available. It impresses with excellent moisture management, quick drying, and high wearing comfort in warm to hot climates, especially during movement-intensive operations.
Andreas Marmsoler, Strategic Marketing for the Defense Sector at the GORE-TEX® brand
Depending on the application scenario, the new generation can be combined with other, more robust laminates in a combat suit. For example, lightweight materials can be used in less stressed areas such as the chest or legs, and more resistant laminates in heavily stressed areas such as the shoulders, elbows, or knees.
High-performance material for practical use
The compact structure of the material is made possible by PYRAD® product technology, which is based on a physical effect: it consists of countless small reactive graphite particles that are evenly incorporated into the fabric. Upon contact with flames or a jet of flame, they form a stable, self-extinguishing carbonization layer that reliably protects the wearer.
Maximum safety with high comfort – proven in the field
Practical field tests with special forces and naval personnel in the Middle East, the Mediterranean, and the Pacific demonstrate the performance of the new technology: the combat suits withstood stress from plate carriers, thorns, brambles, and abrasive surfaces without losing functionality or generating annoying noises when moving. The comfort advantage over conventional materials was particularly evident in hot climates during medium to high activity – many users reported less fatigue and thus greater operational readiness.
Gore revolutionized the outerwear industry more than 40 years ago with waterproof, breathable GORE-TEX fabric and remains a leading innovator in performance apparel. Gore products provide comfort and protection in demanding environments and everyday life, allowing wearers to achieve and experience more with confidence and safety. From hiking in pouring rain to defense operations and firefighting, Gore’s deep understanding of consumer and industry needs drives the development of products with significant performance advantages. gore-tex.com and goretexprofessional.com
See also
Source: W.L. Gore news release
