A Concentration of Technology for Peak Performance
Featured in several iconic technical garments of the collection – waterproof jackets Skora, Lonak and Lonak-XT, as well as for its high-level windproof capabilities in the windbreaker Raven – the AYAQ waterproof membrane is far more than a technical component: it embodies innovation, comfort, and durability.
Exceptional Waterproofing
The AYAQ membrane features a 45,000 Schmerber water column rating, placing the membrane fabric of AYAQ technical garments among the most waterproof worldwide.
What does this number mean?
1 Schmerber = 1 mm of vertical water column without penetration.
So 45,000 Schmerbers = pressure equivalent to 45 meters of water pressing on the fabric… without a single drop passing through.
To put this in perspective:
- High-altitude expedition tent: ~10,000 Schmerbers
- Quality ski pants: 15,000 to 20,000 Schmerbers
- Standard rain jacket: 8,000 to 12,000 Schmerbers
- AYAQ membrane: 45,000 Schmerbers
Practically, this means you can stand under a constant-pressure shower for 3 days without getting wet, with seams—often the weak point in waterproof garments—sealed by expert European workshops.
In real conditions, this allows you to:
- Withstand heavy rain for hours without saturation,
- Sit or kneel on wet surfaces (rock, snow, soaked grass) without moisture transfer,
- Maintain consistent waterproofing over time, without performance loss due to clogging or aging.
Long-Lasting Performance
Unlike microporous membranes that clog and require frequent washing to maintain full effectiveness, the membrane relies on a patented hydrophobic molecular chain. It does not clog, requires no regular washing, and retains its properties even after multiple seasons of intensive use.
Breathability: Staying Dry from the Inside Out
Waterproofing means little without good breathability. Many technical garments fail here, as poor sweat evacuation leaves the athlete drenched inside from their own perspiration.
The AYAQ membrane’s RET breathability rating is ≤ 8 m²·Pa/W, indicating high breathability ideal for intense activity. This means water vapor (sweat) escapes quickly without condensing inside the garment.
Practically, this enables you to:
- Hike or trail run in the rain without feeling clammy,
- Maintain a stable body temperature even during sustained effort,
- Wear the same jacket for hours without feeling overheated.
This breathability, combined with the membrane’s elasticity and thinness, supports long-duration active wear in all weather conditions.
Unmatched Softness and Feel
This technical gem is wrapped in an exceptional French fabric, woven in central France. The result: a soft touch and rare suppleness, a clear departure from typical stiff or plasticized jackets.
A Unique Eco-Responsible Design
The fabric is constructed in three layers, all recycled or recyclable:
- Outer layer: visible fabric, 100% recycled
- Membrane: internal waterproof layer, 100% recyclable
- Inner lining: fabric against the skin, 100% recycled
Importantly, these three layers are separable, enabling complete recyclability through proper channels.
Masterful Craftsmanship
A membrane this thin (150 g/m²) demands extreme precision. To avoid creases at sealed seams, the tape must be applied with perfectly calibrated temperature, pressure, and timing. This artisan work is carried out in two highly specialized European workshops, reserved for a few ultra-demanding brands.
Durable Water Repellency and Waterproofing
Over time and use, only the water repellency of the outer fabric may diminish, as with all technical garments. This does not affect the membrane’s waterproofing, which remains intact.
Water repellency can be easily restored by:
- Briefly tumbling the garment in a dryer at low temperature,
- Or applying a PFC-free water repellent spray, available in outdoor stores.
This is a simple, eco-friendly maintenance that extends garment performance while respecting the environment.
A Technology Trusted by Experts
Some units of the French Special Forces use AYAQ garments in scenarios where discretion, mobility, freedom of movement, and extreme resistance to the elements are critical.
