[Paddlewise] Is Goretex damaged by salt?

The question has arisen about the suitability of Goretex and whether or not
salt actually damages the garment; The following is a link to the Gwaii
Haanas NPR, Canada which advises against the use of gortex in their
environment.

 http://fas.sfu.ca/parkscan/gwaii/prep.htm, STATES:


>> >Raingear. "Breathable" fabrics such as Gore-Tex do not work well in this
>> >>environment. Bring heavy-duty rubberized or vinyl gear. If you do a lot
>> >of >paddling, it's probably worth investing in a waterproof paddling
>> >jacket with >neoprene or velcro cuffs.
>>
>> What is wrong with Goretex?  My drysuit is made of Goretex.  Seems to work
>> OK to me.
>


Dave Kruger responded, attesting to the suitability of Kokatat's gortex
rain garmets:

>They are repeating one of the old myths about Goretex.  I have paddled
>for a total of 6 weeks in the Charlottes, now, with some very rainy days
>in there, using a Goretex paddling jacket exclusively (Kokatat).  I also
>have used the same style of garment down here, in some real downpours.
>Seems to keep me dry (but see below).
>
>At the end of my '96 Charlottes trip, my first one had failed at the
>outer edges of the seam tape -- which Kokatat said was a very unusual
>failure, even considering the four seasons of use I had gotten out of
>it.  The second one is going strong.  Kokatat replaced the first one for
>the cost of seals ($40, I think).
>
>Kokatat says to be sure to rinse the garment every day of use -- to
>remove excess salt buildup.  Use fresh water if you have it, salt if no
>fresh is available.

It was my understanding that salt did not damage Goretex.  Perhaps you
woule be kind enough to disabuse us on the suitability of goretex and how
well it stands up to salt.

Thanks

Robert


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