GORE-TEX Jackets

When conditions turn serious, a GORE-TEX jacket is the benchmark. Genuinely waterproof, windproof, and breathable, GORE-TEX technology has been the trusted standard for mountaineers, hikers, trail runners, and everyday adventurers for decades — and for good reason. It keeps rain and wind out while letting sweat vapour escape, so you stay dry from both sides.

At Great Outdoors, we stock GORE-TEX jackets from the brands that do it best — Rab, Mountain Equipment, Mammut, The North Face and more. Whether you're looking for a technical hardshell for the mountains, a lightweight packable option for trail days, or a do-it-all jacket for life in the Irish weather, you'll find the right one here.

Not sure which to choose? GORE-TEX comes in several variants — GORE-TEX Pro for the most demanding conditions, GORE-TEX Paclite for ultralight packability, and GORE-TEX Active for high-output activities. Our team can help you match the right spec to how you actually use it, whether you shop online or visit us in-store in Dublin.

Looking for more GORE-TEX gear? Browse our full GORE-TEX Clothing & Footwear collection for waterproof trousers, boots, and accessories built to the same standard.

Frequently Asked Questions

GORE-TEX is a membrane that blocks liquid water and wind from getting in while still letting sweat vapour escape, so footwear and outerwear stay waterproof without trapping heat and moisture inside. It's the reason a GORE-TEX walking boot keeps rain and wet grass out on an Irish hillside while remaining breathable on the climb.

The GORE-TEX membrane itself is waterproof. Whether the whole boot stays dry also depends on height and construction. Water can of course still come in over the collar of a low-cut shoe in deep puddles or long wet grass, which is why mid or high boots suit boggier ground.

A sprayed-on or wax coating (DWR) sits on the outer surface and wears off with use, needing regular reproofing. GORE-TEX is a permanent membrane bonded inside the boot or garment, so its waterproofing doesn't wash out. With that said though, the outer face fabric still benefits from occasional reproofing to keep water beading off (see below or see our guide to washing your waterproof jacket ).