A Concentration of Technology for Enhanced Performance
Used in several iconic technical garments from the collection – waterproof jackets Skora, Lonak and Lonak-XT, as well as for its superior wind-blocking capabilities in the windbreaker Raven – the AYAQ waterproof membrane is much more than just a technical component: it is a concentration of innovation, comfort, and durability.
Exceptional Waterproofing
The AYAQ membrane boasts a water column of 45,000 Schmerbers, placing AYAQ's technical fabric among the most waterproof in the world.
But what does this number mean?
1 Schmerber = 1 mm of vertical water column without penetration.
Thus, 45,000 Schmerbers = a pressure equivalent to 45 meters of water pressing on the fabric... without a single drop passing through.
To give a sense of scale:
- A high mountain expedition tent: ~10,000 Schmerbers
- A good ski pant: 15,000 to 20,000 Schmerbers
- A classic rain jacket: 8,000 to 12,000 Schmerbers
- The Ayaq membrane: 45,000 Schmerbers
In practical terms, this means it's possible to stay under a constant pressure shower for 3 days without getting wet, with seams, often the weak point of a waterproof garment, being treated in expert European workshops.
In real conditions, this allows you to:
- withstand torrential rains for hours, without ever saturating,
- sit or kneel on wet surfaces (rock, snow, soaked grass) without moisture transfer,
- maintain constant waterproofing over time, without performance degradation due to dirt or aging.
Lasting Efficiency Over Time
Unlike microporous membranes that clog and must be washed regularly to remain 100% effective, the membrane operates through a patented hydrophobic molecular chain. It does not clog, requires no regular washing, and retains its properties even after several seasons of intensive use.
Breathability: Staying Dry, Even from the Inside
Waterproofing is nothing without good breathability. And that's often where technical garments fail, because without good sweat evaporation, the athlete ends up soaked from their own perspiration.
The breathability level RET of the AYAQ membrane is ≤ 8 m²·Pa/W, which corresponds to high breathability, ideal for intense efforts. This means that water vapor (sweat) is quickly expelled, without condensing inside the garment.
In practical terms, this allows you to:
- Hike or trail run in the rain without feeling clammy,
- Maintain a stable body temperature, even when exerting repeatedly,
- Wear the same jacket for several hours, without ever feeling "steamed".
This breathability, combined with the membrane's elasticity and thinness, allows for long-duration active wear, in all weather conditions.
Unmatched Softness and Feel
This technical jewel is wrapped in an exceptional French fabric, woven in the center of France. Result: a soft touch and a rare flexibility, completely contrary to the usual plastified or rigid jackets.
A Unique Eco-Friendly Design
The fabric is constructed in three layers, all either recycled or recyclable:
- Outer layer: visible fabric, 100% recycled
- Membrane: internal waterproof layer, 100% recyclable
- Inner lining: fabric against the skin, 100% recycled
Most importantly, these three layers are separable, allowing for complete recyclability in the right channels.
Artisanal Craftsmanship
A membrane as thin (150 g/m²) demands extreme precision. To avoid wrinkles at the sealed seams, the strips must be applied with perfectly calibrated temperature, pressure, and duration. It's a craftsmanship, performed in two highly specialized European workshops, and reserved for a few ultra-demanding brands.
Water Repellency and Waterproofing
Over time and use, only the water repellency of the outer fabric may decrease, as with all technical garments. This does not at all compromise the waterproofing of the membrane, which remains intact.
Water repellency can be simply reactivated:
- either by briefly putting the garment in the dryer, at low temperature,
- or by applying a PFC-free water-repellent spray, available at outdoor stores.
It's a simple and eco-friendly maintenance, which extends the performance of the garment while respecting the environment.
A Technology That Appeals to Experts
Some units of the French Special Forces use AYAQ garments, in configurations where stealth, mobility, freedom of movement, and extreme resistance to the elements are essential.
