A robust lightweight for combat boots: EXTRAGUARD technology from GORE-TEX Professional Fabrics

New and innovative EXTRAGUARD upper technology is light-weight and remains lightweight – even in extremely wet conditions

Days of deployment in the rain, cold, mud and snow with hardly any time to recover: Infantry and special units brave the toughest conditions on deployment. Only the best equipment meets the requirements: EXTRAGUARD upper technology enables a completely new generation of GORE-TEX combat boots and combines the advantages of a robust, durable upper material with those of lightweight, flexible, and breathable textiles for the first time.

The boots are not only permanently waterproof, breathable, and flame-retardant, but also permanently lightweight – even after a long time in wet, muddy terrain – and dry again quickly afterwards. We look forward to meeting you and sharing more information with you at our booth 7A #537 at Enforce Tac in Nuremberg, Germany, 24-26 February 2025.

EXTRAGUARD upper technology consists of three layers – a highly abrasion-resistant, easy cleaning and flame-retardant outer protective layer, a functional layer that provides mechanical protection and an innovative construction inner layer with low water absorption properties. This 3-layer upper is sealed with GORE SEAM® Tape and integrated into the shoe along with the interior waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX lining (bootie construction). The seam sealing prevents moisture from entering the shoe through the seams between the upper material and the GORE-TEX lining. The EXTRAGUARD construction absorbs practically no moisture in the outer material and the gaps from the outside even if the water-repellent treatment has worn off or the upper material is damaged.

This keeps feet dry and warm at all times in wet or cold conditions. Thanks to this unique construction, the EXTRAGUARD upper is 40% lighter than equally strong and dry leather when dry. Because it absorbs less moisture from the outside, it remains lightweight even when wet and dries significantly faster. GORE-TEX EXTRAGUARD combat boots retain their functional properties even after long-term use and constant wear in wet environments.

Comfortable fit, easy cleaning, robust protection

GORE-TEX combat boots with EXTRAGUARD upper technology are comfortable from the start, do not need to be worn in and retain their shape even after long-term use and constant wear in wet environments. Their robustness offers reliable protection against sharp objects, common chemicals, moisture and cold. Hosing with water is all that is needed for care and cleaning; specific care products are not necessary.

High performance and reduced environmental impact

EXTRAGUARD upper technology also sets new standards in terms of sustainability: according to the Higg MSI (Higg Materials Sustainability Index, higg.com), the upper is manufactured with less water, CO2 emissions, chemicals, and chrome-free. It is also produced by roll, so there is less material waste in the production of GORE-TEX EXTRAGUARD combat boots. In sum, all factors significantly minimise labour, material use, and overall environmental impact.