Comparative Assessment of GORETEX™ and NEOPRENE™ Vapor Barriers in a Firefighter Turn-Out Coat

A series of 18 laboratory tests using one male and two female subjects was carried out to assess the impact of a GORETEXTM barrier and a NEOPRENE™ vapor barrier on the ventilation characteristics of a firefighter turn-out coat. Clothing air-space temperatures were monitored while test subjects performed under a standardized treadmill exercise protocol. It was found that a GORETEX barrier contributed to lower clothing heat build-up than did a NEOPRENE vapor barrier. The improved heat dissipation characteristics of the GORETEX barrier may reduce heat stress and improve comfort for firefighters during firefighting operations.