Gore-Tex launches revolutionary new waterproof zip

MCN last week trialled Gore-Tex’s new Lockout closure, an all-new completely waterproof zip closure that Rukka has confirmed to be applying to three new suits in 2010 and Alpinestars (see right), Rev’it and Hein Gericke have also committed to using,

The new closure is a self lubricating, toothless construction that opens and closes silently and delivers 100% waterproof protection. Like a traditional zipper, the metal slider moves up the garment to close. But the difference is that it smoothly interlocks the two double channelled polymer tracks to create a flat-fronted finish that changes the look of a garment, and removes the need for a storm flap.

MCN’s Rob Hull said: “In short, it appears to work, and work well. We suffered two days of Scottish weather without any leaks or major issues. Three major focal points came out of it for me.

Firstly, using this closure on the venting system is superb – it genuinely catches the air and pulls it through the garment. Secondly, the ease of use compared to traditional waterproof closures.

If you need to reach into your pocket to pay for fuel you don’t have to fiddle around with flaps and numerous zipper closures.

But finally, Gore assured us that the manufacturing costs and the materials are within the same ball-park as a normal waterproof closure, so we must assume that a garment price won’t sky-rocket if it has the Lockout closure.”

• Compare and buy waterproof jackets in the MCN shop