Key takeaways
- Pertex Shield is a line of waterproof-breathable fabrics for rain shells and jackets.
- It pairs a waterproof-breathable coating/membrane with lightweight Pertex face fabrics.
- It keeps rain out while venting some sweat vapor, prioritizing low weight and value.
- It's an alternative to membranes like Gore-Tex, common in lighter, more affordable shells.
Pertex brand line.
What Pertex Shield is
Pertex Shield is a line of waterproof-breathable fabrics from Pertex, used in rain jackets, shells, and weather-protective outdoor clothing. It combines a waterproof-breathable coating or membrane with Pertex’s signature lightweight face fabrics to keep rain out while letting some sweat vapor escape.
How it works
Like other waterproof-breathable fabrics, Pertex Shield uses a barrier that blocks liquid water while permitting water vapor to pass, paired with a DWR finish so water beads off the face fabric. The line generally emphasizes light weight and value, with different versions offering varying durability and breathability.
A hiker on a budget picks a Pertex Shield rain jacket — getting reliable waterproof protection in a light, affordable shell as an alternative to a pricier Gore-Tex piece — and keeps the DWR fresh so it keeps breathing.
How it compares
Both Pertex Shield and Gore-Tex are waterproof-breathable, but Gore-Tex is a premium membrane brand while Pertex Shield is Pertex’s fabric line, often used in lighter, more affordable shells. Performance varies by version; Pertex Shield is a competitive alternative where weight and value matter most.
The bottom line
Pertex Shield is Pertex's waterproof-breathable fabric line — rain protection that pairs a waterproof barrier with light Pertex face fabrics, prioritizing low weight and value. A capable alternative to premium membranes like Gore-Tex, it shows up in lighter, often more affordable rain shells, keeping you dry while venting some sweat. Maintain the DWR to keep it breathing.
Frequently asked questions
What is Pertex Shield?
Pertex Shield is a line of waterproof-breathable fabrics made by Pertex, used in rain jackets, shells, and weather-protective outdoor clothing. It combines a waterproof-breathable coating or membrane with Pertex's signature lightweight face fabrics to keep rain out while letting some sweat vapor escape.
How does Pertex Shield work?
Like other waterproof-breathable fabrics, it uses a barrier (a coating or membrane) that blocks liquid water from getting in while permitting water vapor to pass out, paired with a DWR finish on the face fabric so water beads off. Pertex Shield generally emphasizes light weight and value, with different versions offering varying levels of durability and breathability.
How does Pertex Shield compare to Gore-Tex?
Both are waterproof-breathable fabrics, but Gore-Tex is a specific premium membrane brand while Pertex Shield is Pertex's line of waterproof-breathable fabrics, often used in lighter and more affordable shells. Performance varies by the specific version of each; Pertex Shield is a competitive alternative, particularly where light weight and value are priorities.
Sources
- Pertex Shield technology — Pertex
- Waterproof-breathable fabrics — The Mountaineers