Waterproof Sympatex Membrane
Mountain athletes inevitably encounter the elements on their outings and journeys towards the summits. Finding yourself in torrential rain or feeling the force of a powerful wind can even be a profound experience of connection with nature, provided you are well equipped with suitable clothing.
To offer clothing that delivers performance and optimal comfort in all weather conditions, AYAQ has carefully selected its most technical materials.
Guided by these performance requirements and our commitment to protecting the environment, we chose the German SYMPATEX® membrane: waterproof, breathable and wind-proof.
The laminated fabrics we use for our 3-layer garments (such as the Lonak Hardshell jacket or Nunatak trousers) feature this German membrane, which offers extreme protection and remarkable environmental performance.
We refer to a “3-layer” laminated fabric because the membrane is sandwiched between two fabrics. This exceptionally thin, ultra-technical layer delivers waterproof, breathable and wind-proof performance.
ULTRA-PERFORMANCE
- 100% waterproof
- 100% wind-proof
- Optimal breathability thanks to its molecular structure
- Sustainable, thanks to the use of recycled or recyclable materials
- Dynamic climate regulation
- Non-porous, ultra-thin and highly stretchable membrane
- Exceptional strength for reliable protection on the most ambitious adventures
MAXIMUM ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE
- 100% climate-neutral membrane
- 100% recyclable membrane
- 100% recycled and recyclable laminate
- STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX® certified, bluesign® approved
- PTFE-free membrane and laminate
- Fluorocarbon-free (PFC-free) treatments
- Full carbon footprint offsetting
A closer look:
100% waterproof:
Our protective membrane delivers outstanding waterproof performance, rated at ≥ 45,000 Schmerber.
Waterproofness is a textile's ability to prevent water from passing through it, up to a certain pressure.
This waterproofness is tested and rated using laboratory measurements. The test uses a column of water to exert pressure on the fabric, and therefore on the membrane. As the water pressure increases, the test identifies the point at which water begins to penetrate and pass through the membrane.
1 Schmerber = 1 mm water column = 0.1 mbar.
To put this rating of ≥ 45,000 Schmerber into perspective, the average pressure exerted by rain is around 1,000 to 2,000 Schmerber. The SYMPATEX® membrane therefore withstands at least 25 times the pressure naturally exerted by rain. This exceptionally high performance from the SYMPATEX® membrane provides a waterproofing safety margin to ensure effective protection in particularly demanding situations, such as when carrying a backpack, where water pressure on the shoulders increases significantly.
Breathability:
RET < 12 (m²Pa/W).
Breathability is a fabric's ability to allow water vapour to pass through it. Perspiration, which helps our bodies regulate temperature, takes the form of water vapour. Thanks to its breathable performance, the SYMPATEX® membrane allows perspiration and excess heat to escape effectively.
RET is measured in a laboratory. The lower the RET value, the better the breathability.
A textile with a RET below 12 is considered highly breathable in terms of perceived human comfort.
100% wind-proof:
Wind cools the layer of warm air at the surface of our skin. As a result, the perceived temperature in windy conditions is lower than the actual temperature. This is wind chill, something every mountain athlete inevitably experiences.
Because the Sympatex membrane is 100% wind-proof, you simply stay protected from the cooling effect of the wind.
PFC-free water-repellent treatment:
A water-repellent treatment forms a protective layer on the surface. It causes water to bead on contact with the fabric, so droplets roll off rather than soaking in.
Committed to protecting our environment, AYAQ selects fabrics with an eco-responsible water-repellent treatment. To find out more, visit our information page on our choice of PFC-free water-repellent treatments.
