Buoy X 2.0 - The New Generation of GORE-TEX
The Technology Behind Grundéns’ Most Advanced Waterproof & Breathable Suit Yet
When you build a suit meant for the worst days of the season, “waterproof” isn’t enough. It has to stay waterproof under pressure. It has to breathe when you’re working the gear. It has to block wind that turns spray into needles. And it has to survive long seasons of salt, slime, UV and abrasion.
That is the idea behind Buoy X 2.0 GORE-TEX® Jacket and Bib — Grundéns’ flagship 3-layer shell system engineered for serious freshwater and saltwater anglers facing heavy rain, wind, and constant spray.
This is the deep dive into what makes it work.
Built on a 3-Layer GORE-TEX Foundation
At the core of Buoy X 2.0 is a 3-layer GORE-TEX laminate construction. In technical terms, that means the waterproof membrane is permanently bonded between a durable outer face fabric and a protective inner backer.
Unlike coated rainwear, where waterproofing sits on top of the fabric, a laminated system integrates the barrier directly into the structure of the garment. That’s why 3-layer shells are trusted for prolonged exposure and extreme conditions.
Buoy X 2.0 is designed specifically for heavy rain, spray, and constantly changing conditions — the kind anglers actually fish in.
The Next Generation: GORE-TEX with ePE Membrane
GORE’s newest evolution in membrane technology is expanded polyethylene (ePE). While traditional GORE-TEX membranes relied on expanded PTFE, the new ePE construction represents a shift toward a lighter, thinner membrane platform with a reduced environmental footprint.
The ePE membrane is engineered to maintain the same core performance expectations GORE-TEX is known for, while moving toward more responsible material chemistry.
Storm Testing: Simulating the Worst Conditions on Purpose
The Rain Room
A calibrated chamber that produces rainfall ranging from light drizzle to wind-driven downpour. The goal isn’t just to get the fabric wet — it’s to test how water behaves across seams, closures, hood openings, and high-stress areas.
The Storm Cube
A high-intensity weather simulator generating wind speeds up to approximately 50 mph, combining wind pressure with water exposure. Wind dramatically increases the force pushing water into weak points — the exact scenario you experience on open water.
Fishing gear fails when wind pressure and sustained exposure exploit small design weaknesses. Storm testing identifies those weaknesses before the suit ever reaches a boat deck.
Breathability: Managing Internal Climate
True breathability isn’t about air flowing through the jacket. It’s about water vapor transmission.
When you’re active - casting, hauling gear, moving on deck- your body produces moisture vapor. The GORE-TEX membrane contains microscopic pores engineered to allow vapor molecules to escape while preventing liquid water droplets from entering.
Two realities matter here:
1. Breathability works best when there is a temperature and humidity gradient (warmer inside than outside).
2. If the outer fabric becomes saturated (known as “wet-out”), vapor transfer efficiency drops.
That’s why durable water repellent (DWR) treatment on the outer face fabric remains important. Keeping the exterior shedding water allows the membrane to do its job effectively.
Why a Bib Matters as Much as the Jacket
On a boat, water doesn’t just fall from above — it hits from below, sideways, and from constant deck splash. Bibs protect the torso core from upward spray and seated water pressure that standard waist-height pants cannot handle.
The Buoy X 2.0 Bib uses the same 3-layer GORE-TEX laminate, ensuring consistent waterproof and breathable performance across the full suit system. The mobility-focused fit is engineered so protection doesn’t compromise movement during casting, netting, or long hours at the helm.
Care = Performance
Even the best membrane needs proper care to perform at its peak. Care instructions for GORE-TEX and all Grundéns waterproof, breathable garments you can find here.
Learn more of the new Buoy X 2.0 and other Grundéns GORE-TEX range here.
