To tackle winter in the best conditions, face humidity and wind with complete peace of mind or even play sports in extreme weather conditions, waterproof and breathable technical clothing equipped with a membrane will be your best friends.
VEST PARIS tells you everything about the technology, performance, use and secrets of technical membranes.
What is a technical membrane?
A technical membrane is a clever material bonded to the back of a fabric. It looks like a soft, invisible plastic film that makes the garment waterproof, windproof, and breathable. Its function is simple: external moisture is blocked, while internal moisture can escape. The bonding of the membrane to the outer fabric is called "lamination."
This technology is based on materials such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and polyurethane (PU).
How a membrane works
The engineered membrane works by blocking water droplets from the outside thanks to its microscopic pores, which are small enough to prevent water from penetrating.
However, these pores are large enough to allow water vapor, produced by perspiration, to escape. This creates a perfect balance between waterproofing and breathability.
The most well-known membranes
There are dozens of membranes on the market, each one equally efficient. At VEST, for example, we use Majocchi and Loro Piana membranes. A manufacturer's reputation doesn't necessarily mean that its membranes are more efficient; however, here are three well-known membrane brands.
- Gore-Tex : Probably the most well-known membrane, Gore-Tex is famous for its durability and exceptional performance in extreme conditions.
- eVent : Known for its superior breathability, eVent allows for rapid evacuation of water vapor, ideal for intense activities.
- SympaTex : An ecological membrane that offers excellent waterproofing and good breathability while being recyclable.
The impermeability of membranes
The impermeability of a membrane is often measured in millimeters of water column (mmH2O). A membrane with a value of 10,000 mmH2O, for example, can withstand a water column of 10,000 mm before water begins to penetrate.
Garments with high-quality technical membranes can reach values of 20,000 mmH2O or more, providing superior protection even in heavy rain.
Breathability of membranes
Breathability is measured by the amount of water vapor that can pass through the membrane in 24 hours (g/m²/24h). Higher values indicate better moisture wicking.
High-end membranes can reach values of 20,000 g/m²/24h, ensuring that you stay dry even during intense physical activities. Those used by VEST have a value of 15,000 g/m²/24h.
Their durability
Durability is a crucial aspect of technical membranes. To extend the performance of a membrane, treatments such as DWR (Durable Water Repellent) are applied. These treatments help repel water, allowing drops to bead and roll off the surface of the garment.
This treatment is therefore a plus that helps extend the lifespan and effectiveness of a membrane. It must be applied regularly, after each wash of the jacket. It is applied by spray or during washing with specialized detergents such as NikWax.
Use of Technical Membranes
Outdoor clothing
Technical membranes are commonly used in jackets, pants, and other outdoor clothing. They are ideal for activities such as hiking, mountaineering, and skiing, where weather protection and temperature regulation are crucial.
Urban clothing
Waterproof and breathable membranes are also popular in urban clothing. Like the VEST PARIS, North Face, and certain Canada Goose jackets, coats and jackets featuring these technologies keep you dry and comfortable during daily city commutes, while offering a modern and functional style.
Sportswear
Athletes and sports enthusiasts benefit greatly from technical membranes. Whether for running, cycling, mountain sports, hiking, or other physical activities, these garments enable optimal performance by effectively wicking away perspiration while protecting against wind, rain, and snow.
Professional clothing
Professionals who work in harsh weather conditions, such as construction workers or emergency personnel, use clothing with technical membranes to stay protected and comfortable while they work. This is the case for outdoor occupations as well as on offshore platforms.
Conclusion
Waterproof and breathable technical membranes have revolutionized the world of technical clothing, offering unparalleled protection and comfort.
For the membrane to be fully effective, the seams of your garment must be welded or laminated. This is essential for your complete peace of mind in the face of the elements, as water must also be blocked at the seams.
Whether you're out in the great outdoors, in the city, working out or on a construction site, clothing with technical membranes ensures you stay dry and comfortable, ready to face any weather condition.