What is a membrane? A guide to membranes in outdoor clothing.
Wondering whether it's worth choosing clothing with a membrane? This layer is often used in outdoor clothing, giving it many additional properties. Read our guide and learn what a membrane is.
Membrane – what is it?
A membrane is a thin layer of material with specialized properties designed to protect against weather conditions. Its main purpose is waterproofing, windproofing, and breathability. This allows you to wear clothing with a membrane even during intense physical activity or in challenging weather conditions.
How does the membrane work?
The membrane in a jacket, pants, or shoe works by microperforating or creating a pressure difference, allowing water vapor molecules produced by the body to escape. At the same time, the membrane blocks water droplets from entering. This keeps the body dry, preventing both soaking and overheating.
Types of membranes in outdoor clothing
Both how the membrane works and the types of coatings are important, as this influences the properties of outdoor clothing. Depending on the construction and technology used, several common types of membranes can be distinguished.
Membranes with microscopic pores
A microporous membrane in a ski or everyday jacket is designed to block raindrops while allowing water vapor to pass through. Gore-Tex membranes, for example, are lightweight and allow the skin to breathe, making them ideal for intense physical activity. A prime example are women's ski jackets with a microporous membrane.
Hydrophilic membranes
This type of membrane has no pores. It operates on the principle of chemical moisture transport – water molecules are transported through the hydrophilic structure of the material. Hydrophilic membranes such as Sympatex are distinguished by their very high water resistance and durability.
Hybrid membranes
Hybrid membranes combine the characteristics of microporous and hydrophilic membranes, providing both waterproofness and breathability. They are best suited for versatile clothing suitable for various weather conditions.
PU membranes
A polyurethane membrane is a budget option because, although it provides waterproofing, such clothing usually has lower breathability compared to other membranes.
Membrane parameters – what exactly do they mean?
Want to choose women's ski jackets or pants , but don't know what exactly membrane parameters mean? These parameters determine the conditions in which outdoor clothing with a membrane coating will perform. Learn about the most important membrane parameters.
Water resistance
A membrane's waterproofness measures its ability to block water penetration. It's measured in millimeters of water column, which represents the pressure the membrane can withstand before leaking. Here are some examples of values for a raincoat:
- up to 5,000 mm – basic protection against light rain or moisture; suitable for short walks;
- 5,000–10,000 mm – medium water resistance, suitable for moderate rain or snow;
- above 10,000 mm – high water resistance, ideal for heavy rain, storms and extreme weather conditions.
Gore-Tex jackets provide even greater protection against unfavorable weather conditions, as they offer a waterproof rating of 28,000 mm.
Breathability
A membrane's breathability measures its ability to wick away water vapor (sweat). It is expressed in grams per square meter per day (g/m²/24h) or RET values.
- Breathability 5,000–10,000 g/m²/24h – suitable for less active days, e.g. walking.
- Breathability above 10,000 g/m²/24h – ideal for intense physical activity such as mountain running, trekking or skiing.
Resistance to mechanical damage
Some membranes increase the mechanical strength of clothing, which is crucial for mountaineering, skiing, and trekking in challenging conditions. This value is typically measured in abrasion resistance, expressed in Martindale test cycles, or as the ability to stretch without failure.
Wind protection
While most membranes are naturally windproof, some offer particularly high wind resistance. This rating is measured by the amount of air that passes through the membrane.
Membrane in a jacket – what is worth knowing?
Are you a fan of outdoor activities? Then men's ski jackets with a membrane or softshell membrane are a must-have for your wardrobe. So, learn what to look for when buying a membrane jacket.
Construction of the jacket
The effectiveness of a membrane depends, among other things, on the outer material bonded to the membrane. The type of laminates used in, for example, a raincoat is also important. A jacket's membrane may be composed of several laminate layers, for example:
- two-layer laminate – the membrane is connected to the outer layer of the material, and the lining remains loose on the inside; this solution provides good protection and comfort, but may be less durable;
- three-layer laminate – the membrane is laminated to both the outer layer and the lining; this is the most durable option, ideal for intense exercise, such as skiing.
Properties of a jacket with a membrane
The most important feature of a membrane jacket is waterproofness – the higher the rating, the better protection against rain and snow. Breathability and windproofness are also crucial.
The use of a jacket with a membrane
If you're looking to buy a jacket with a membrane, consider its intended use. If you plan to wear it every day, a membrane in a jacket with a waterproof rating of 5,000–10,000 mm and moderate breathability will be sufficient. However, for trekking and mountain hiking, jackets with a waterproof rating of over 10,000 mm and high breathability (at least 10,000 g/m²/24h) are better suited.
Membrane maintenance
Can you wash a membrane jacket? It's absolutely necessary, but using a mild detergent designed for technical clothing is crucial. Waterproofing products may also be necessary to restore the outer material's water-repellent properties.
