Clothing material technology is reaching new levels. The fabrics used are being improved. Modern outerwear and shoes are able to take in air, allowing the body to breathe, while not letting moisture in from the outside and even taking it away from the body. The material adapts to certain temperatures, providing comfort when worn.

This material is referred to as membrane tissue.
Membrane clothing is an excellent choice for hunting, fishing or just going out into the countryside.


Let's figure out what it is membrane clothing.

The membrane is a kind of very thin (thickness reaches tenths or even hundredths of a millimeter) polymer film with microscopic pores.

It is due to the shape of the pores that the membrane passes moisture in only one direction. It turns out that on one side the moisture passes through, while the other side is almost impermeable.

The membrane is an integral component of the membrane tissue. The frame of such a material is synthetics, for example, nylon. Synthetic materials are moisture resistant, they are best suited as the basis of membrane fabric.

The multi-layer composition of the fabric complements the layer of material that protects the membrane itself from damage.

Water repellent side of the membrane facing outward permeable- inside.
The pores of the membrane are facing the body, which allows moisture to be removed from under clothing into the environment.
The outer material must also "breathe", passing moisture through itself. The one-way permeability of the membrane pores prevents the ingress of moisture inside.

Another equally important advantage of membrane fabrics is excellent wind protection.

- At low temperatures and strong wind, membrane clothing significantly reduces heat loss.
- In warm weather Air vents are provided to keep the body cool.

Summer clothing differs from demi-season and winter clothing in the materials used, cut and design features. Depending on the application and the weather, the clothes are equipped with different types of membranes.

There is an unspoken division into porous, non-porous and combined.

Pore ​​membrane(Polymer thin layers with very small holes through which vapor molecules can leak from the inside, but drops do not fit there).
Application: Works great in high humidity, especially when there is ventilation on the clothes. Also at low temperatures. The so-called winter membrane.

Poreless membrane(The material also contains many micro cells with a complex shape resembling the structure of a sponge. Steam from the skin nourishes the membrane, turning into condensed moisture, it escapes due to the pressure difference).
Application: Works great in dry weather, does not work in high humidity and in severe frost.

Combined membrane(Some manufacturers combine these membranes in layers when making clothing.)
Application: Combines all the useful properties of the above membranes.

Let's consider what are types of membranes in the apparel market.

One of the most popular is [ gore-tex
Gore-Tex fabrics are based on an extremely thin membrane that is waterproof, windproof and vapor permeable. gore-tex] with different specifications.
Gore-Tex fabrics are based on an extremely thin membrane that is waterproof, windproof and vapor permeable. It contains over 1.4 million pores per square centimeter.

- [Gore-Tex Surround
Gore-Tex Surround] - waterproof, windproof, vapor-permeable membrane. Excellent material for making shoes. Keeps feet dry and prevents them from overheating.
- [Gore-Tex Performance Shell- waterproof, windproof, vapor-permeable membrane.
Performance Shell - a combination of soft and durable outer fabric (membrane and lining made of special material).
Guarantees long-term moisture protection, as well as comfort due to breathability.
Gore-Tex Performance Shell] - a combination of soft and durable outer fabric (membrane and lining made of special material). Provides long-lasting moisture protection, as well as comfort due to breathability. The material is suitable for any outdoor activity.
- [Gore-Tex Extended Comfort– waterproof, windproof, vapor-permeable membrane.
Gore-Tex Extended Comfort] is ideal for temperate and warm conditions. Products from it are suitable for high physical activity and daily use.
- [Gore-Tex Performance ComfortCombines long-lasting waterproofness with optimized breathability for long-lasting moisture protection and a comfortable microclimate. Gore-Tex Performance Comfort] - applicable in the manufacture of shoes. Designed for outdoor use in moderate weather conditions.
- [Gore windstopper- provides absolute protection and unparalleled breathability. The clothes are not overloaded with additional layers, do not restrict movements and provide absolute comfort. Gore windstopper] provides absolute protection and unparalleled breathability. The clothes are not overloaded with additional layers, do not restrict movements and provide absolute comfort.

[eVent
- excellent breathability, high moisture resistance, evaporation is removed directly through the non-porous membrane without diffusion. eVent] is the original and the world's only hydrophobic porous Teflon membrane with oleophobic integrated protection, developed by BHA Technologies. This membrane works better than others at sub-zero temperatures.

[Air-Tex2- breathable membrane layer "AIR-TEX2". Provides the highest level of moisture resistance, ventilation properties and lightness. Air-Tex2] is attached directly to the outer layer of the fabric. Air permeability >11,000 g/m2/24 h. Water impermeability >10,000 mm.

[Seetex- proprietary membrane company Seeland. It is not blown even by the strongest wind. Waterproof (5000 or 10,000 mm - depending on the type of membrane).
Also, the Seetex membrane has good MVT (moisture vapor transmission - vapor permeability, or "breathability"). This means that clothing made from this membrane fabric actively removes excess moisture to the outside, allowing you to maintain an optimal microclimate inside even during high physical exertion. Seetex] is Seeland's proprietary membrane. It is not blown even by the strongest wind. Waterproof (5000 or 10,000 mm - depending on the type of membrane). Clothing also actively removes excess moisture to the outside, allowing you to maintain an optimal microclimate inside even with high physical exertion.

[SHIELD-TEX- allows you to combine in one fabric a large number of different technologies for different climatic conditions from plus to minus temperatures. SHIELD-TEX] allows you to combine in one fabric a large number of different technologies for different climatic conditions from plus to minus temperatures. The membrane has a water resistance of 10.000 mm water column per 1 cm2. Vapor permeability -10.000 mm3 \ 24 h \ day.

[TPU- is the thinnest membrane film, which is laminated (welded or glued) to the fabric, or it is a special impregnation, rigidly applied to the fabric in a hot way during production. The main functions are to pass steam on one side, and not to pass water on the other. TPU] Membrane (steam removal) is either the thinnest film that is laminated (welded or glued) to the fabric, or a special impregnation, hard applied to the fabric in a hot way during production. The main functions are to pass steam on one side, and not to pass water on the other.

[Covertex
- it is a waterproof, windproof and at the same time breathable membrane fabric. Covertex] is a waterproof, windproof and at the same time breathable membrane fabric.

There are many membranes in use. And improving, companies develop new technologies, new methods and types of membrane fabrics.

How to decipher the meaning of the membrane.

On the label of any clothing there is the composition of the fabric and methods of care, on the membrane clothing there are two digital characteristics, 5000/10000 or 8000mm/13000 g/m2/24 h.

1. The first parameter is moisture resistance(means how high the water column can hold the fabric without getting wet),

2. Second - vapor permeability(Indicates the amount of steam passed by one meter of fabric in 24 hours).

Let's look at an example:
On the tag of the JahtiJakt AIR-TEX2 suit, the data on the membrane is indicated - 10000/11000.
This means that the membrane provides the suit with moisture resistance even up to 10,000 mm of water column and an air permeability of 11,000 grams per meter in 24 hours.

Carefully select clothes, guided primarily by the conditions in which you will be (mountains, severe frosts, very humid climate, etc.).
Also, do not forget about the proper care of clothing, special technologies for the manufacture of membrane fabric require compliance with the rules.

How to wash the membrane, and what care is needed:

What do we have to do

• Machine wash at 40 degrees and rinse thoroughly (It is advisable to use special detergents for washing membrane fabrics);
• Before washing, fasten all zippers and fasteners;
• Tumble dry at a moderate temperature (Heating while drying or ironing has a positive effect on the water repellency of clothing, as it restores the DWR film);

• Iron at low temperatures with a steamer, through a piece of cloth (However, before taking up the iron, read the label - some types of membranes are forbidden to be ironed);
• If water does not form drops on the surface of the garment after washing and drying, it means that the water-repellent film has expired. It will be necessary to treat the product with a special water-repellent impregnation (Impregnation should be applied only to clean things);
• Membrane products must be cleaned regularly. For this, warm water without detergents and a soft, fluffy brush are enough;

• Use fabric softener and chlorine bleach;
• Dry membrane materials on batteries, heaters, near an open flame;
• Wash and iron at high temperatures (The synthetic fabric of the top will melt and the membrane will be damaged!);
• Alter a thing or repair it yourself: products made of membrane fabric have a complex waterproof design, which will be broken if you interfere with it yourself. (Seams and locks undergo special treatment).

Modern manufacturers, possessing innovative technologies, are able to offer the latest developments in membrane materials that are used in a wide variety of areas of human activity. What is membrane clothing? This is a high-tech material, which, due to its qualities, is used for sewing sports, casual and outdoor clothing. The clothing industry offers clothes not only for adults, but also for children.

The main trends in the development of the modern economy include the improvement of product quality. This is achieved through the introduction of innovative methods in production. Today, clothing made of fabric with a membrane coating is very popular. The range of products made from this material is very large.

It is made from:

• Membrane clothing and footwear for people involved in active sports, tourism;
• Special clothing for firefighters and medical workers;
• Uniform for military personnel and kits for winter fishing.

Membrane material appeared relatively recently. Over the past 10 years, he has gained worldwide fame. Items made from this material must meet the requirements: to show protective properties during the period of atmospheric influences and to provide a comfortable feeling in the underwear space. In case of heavy load, the material is able to remove excess moisture and heat. To obtain a fabric with a thickness of 10-30 microns, extrusion methods, coagulation or thermal biaxial stretching are used.

To connect the membrane to the fabric, polyurethane is used for adhesion, which is coated with an atmospheric-active film. It passes along with the web through the pressure rollers of the calender, which allows the two materials to be glued together.

When designing and creating professional membrane clothing for children and adults in winter, designers try to cope with a multifaceted and complex task, to combine all the characteristics of the material in the product:

• Aesthetic appearance;
• Comfort fit;
• Insertion of reflective elements with optical recognition into children's membrane clothing;
• Clothing for tourism made of membrane material should have a long service life;
• High-quality atmospheric laminates can affect the membrane, which, in turn, affects the comfortable well-being of people in the winter.

How to distinguish the material? Winter clothing has common key indicators:

1. Water resistance - this indicator is characterized by the height of the water level and the ability of the membrane to withstand it without letting it inside. Moisture content measurement is calculated in millimeters or other units such as PSI (POUND PER SGUARE INCH). This measurement means weight in pounds per inch². Studies have shown that if the material has a PSI value of more than 25 units, then the product will be waterproof. With a material index of 1-24 PSI, it is considered that the product has a low resistance to moisture. But this indicator is enough for people who are not involved in extreme sports. Therefore, there is no need to overpay for extra layers of clothing. All layers must be glued so that moisture does not penetrate through them into the product. If the label says "all seams are sealed" ─ this means that the seams of the suit for the winter are completely taped. And if there is an inscription “critical seam sealing” on the label, it means that only the main seams are glued in the kit, and in heavy rain the product may get wet over time;
2. Moisture permeability - if the definition of this characteristic is theoretically clear, then the digital indicators do not say anything to many consumers. This can be used by an unscrupulous manufacturer. He sometimes indicates indicators of clothing for children made of membrane material, which absolutely do not correspond to the technical characteristics of the material, which leads to disastrous results during testing.

Testing is based on measuring the amount of liquid in grams that can evaporate per day in m² (g / m² / 24 h) ─ this is the MVTR indicator moisture vapor transmission rate ─ moisture vapor transmission rate. These tests are carried out by special laboratories. The main thing that consumers should remember is that the MVTR B2 marking for the test is considered universal. The membrane is a fragile and thin material. The sheet version is applied to the final product. If the membrane is applied in liquid form, then it is applied to the base material and forms a membrane coating, which received the second name ─ laminate.

The main types of membrane material:

• 2l - two-layer view is marked with the value 2L. The sheet material is applied to the fabric. In a two-layer product, the advantage is economical weight, high moisture permeability. The product is duplicated by an inner lining, which is made of mesh. You can use two-layer clothing during sports, as well as for everyday use;
• 5l - two and a half layers. It consists of two layers, between which there is an additional protective layer of non-woven material. Ski clothing made from this brand of material is light and compact. The membrane is protected by the outer layer, on which there are rubber "pimples" with a diameter of less than 1 mm. The membrane does not come into contact with clothing and protects it from various damages. This does not prevent the product from retaining all the properties of the three-layer Gore-Tex material and gaining weight. For example, Millet's Paclite jacket weighs only 470g;
• 3l - three-layer type. In this design, the membrane is protected by fabric on both sides. All products are highly durable. It can be used for sports and special kits designed for use in extreme conditions.

clothing features

Clothing made of the membrane does not get wet, reliably protects against gusty winds, cold weather, perfectly “breathes”, thereby creating comfortable conditions for wearing.

For children

An excellent option for outerwear in the cold season is membrane children's clothing. When the baby takes his first steps in winter, he is not very comfortable walking in bulky fur overalls. Heavy sets hamper movement, so they try to buy light, functional, comfortable membrane winter clothes for children. High-quality outerwear can be combined with properly selected underwear, which can provide the baby with comfortable, warm and dry wearing in any bad weather ─ snowy winter down to -20 ° C or a rainy autumn day. In addition, the membrane fabric is endowed with dirt-repellent qualities. Almost all children's clothing is different:

• wear resistance;
• Persistent colors;
• Decor with reflective inserts.

For the above properties, there is a corresponding marking on the label. For example, an indicator of 3000-15000 mm of water column indicates the intensity of rain, at which the coating will begin to let moisture through. Laboratory studies show that with an indicator of 4 thousand mm of water, children's things do not let moisture through and the child always remains warm and dry.

Brands that produce membrane clothing and shoes for children:

• Reima - for its products, the company uses high quality insulation that provides warmth in severe frosts. Parents from the whole variety of styles and colors can choose the best design for their baby;
• Ketch is a newly created Swedish company that has already become popular in the market. Buyers claim that under the clothes of this company there is no need to wear other warm clothes;
• Gore-Tex is an American company that has developed durable, breathable footwear. If the label says "Gore-Tex", parents can be confident in the quality of the product;
• Sumpa Tex - a German company introduced footwear products without membrane pores. In this model range, moisture is removed from the warm side of the membrane material to the cold side. She is not afraid of dirt, and the reagents do not spoil the appearance of the product.

Top sellers of children's membrane clothing:

• Winter set Reima 513100-4901 Misteli is a model for a girl with a comfortable design. The set consists of a jacket and semi-overalls. It has a waterproof and non-breathable fabric with a dirt-repellent impregnation. The presence of fluffy Comfort + insulation with high elasticity, gives the product volume. The price of the model is 6 thousand rubles;
• Winter jacket for girls Sisarus Reimatec 531300-4190 - a combination of design, quality and practicality will appeal to parents and children. The material is breathable, the hood is removable, the material is dirt-repellent. The price of the model is 8038 rubles;
• Ricosta shoes - a German manufacturer uses only natural and high-tech materials for children's shoes. The price of the model is 2850 rubles;
• Boots Kotofey 454968-42 - the model is decorated with snowflakes, has two Velcro fasteners. Phylon material is used for the sole. Fur serves as an internal insulation. The price of the model is 2500 rubles;
• Ketch set (art. 090254-090255) - the model consists of a jacket and overalls. Designed for t from + 6˚ to - 28˚С. The price of the kit is up to 4000 rubles.

For adults

Today, membrane clothing for women and men is used not only for hiking, outdoor activities and skiing in ski resorts. You can wear it in ordinary city life. Products allow you not to freeze at a temperature of -15-20˚С and not to sweat in a warm, closed room. Material properties will be respected in case of multi-layering.

Do not wear clothes that absorb moisture or that do not “breathe” well. Since 1959, the American company W. L. Gore & Associates began experimenting with polytetrafluoroethylene for the manufacture of this material, and only in 1976 was a fabric with a water-repellent, windproof, "breathable" effect created.

When creating membrane clothing for hunting, manufacturers use modern fabric, in which there are a large number of micro-holes - up to 1.4 million pieces are located per 1 cm². This porous layer is located between the upper and inner layers. This design is used not only for clothes, but also for adult shoes. The holes are 20,000 times smaller than a drop of water. Moisture is expelled through them in the form of steam. You can winter in membrane clothing, it is lightweight and folds compactly.

Companies that manufacture membrane suits:

• Norfin - membrane suits of the Latvian company, light, comfortable, have high water resistance. Warmer for fishing, no clothes for hunting. In the hunting collection, the cost of products reaches $ 300-400;
• Red Fox - a well-known Russian manufacturer has gained popularity in the market due to its quality and affordable prices;
• Dupont - an American manufacturer has not yet become widely known among outerwear manufacturers, but is proud of its underwear products ─ unique socks that not only save heat, "breathe", but also do not let moisture in from the outside. The price of these socks is $25. Use wearable membrane clothing for hunting.

Consider some models of adult membrane clothing:

• Norfin Extreme 2 XXL (309105-XXL) - the model is designed for fishermen, as well as lovers of new technologies use membrane clothing for hunters. Which withstands frost at -32˚С. The straps in the model are adjustable, the waist is tightened with a latch, the knee pads consist of additional soft inserts, a zipper is inserted on the bottom of the semi-overalls. Price 5500 rubles;
• Pea jacket Atax - the model is designed for climbers. The base consists of a double synthetic winterizer with two chest pockets and other additional elements that distribute the necessary load. The membrane coating has a pixel atax color. The knitted collar has a windproof placket. The average price is from 2700 rubles;
• Neve Astra - women's and men's trousers made of Evapora membrane fabric. They are waterproof and keep out the cold. Adjustable throughout the length of the trousers. All seams are taped and have pockets with zippers. The average price is from 2500 rubles;
• Norfin Scandic suit - the model belongs to rain suits. Able to provide a comfortable stay in various weather conditions. The product has many pockets, the bottom of the jacket is pulled together, has a mesh lining and other additional elements. Price 9500 rubles;
• Jacket Armani Women Jacket 281408 - this model is designed for women who go in for skiing. It is windproof and waterproof. Additional high-quality, insulated elements with knitted cuffs allow you to feel comfortable. The price of the jacket is from 39 thousand rubles.

Choice by season

Modern membrane products will help protect against frost or strong winds. In order for clothes to be comfortable and please with warmth, you need to make the right choice. Whatever season clothes are purchased for, you need to consider some rules:

1. It is important to pay attention to product design. The cut should be comfortable and fit the size grid;
2. Winter sets are bought a little loose so that they do not hinder movement and better retain heat;
3. Pay attention to the quality of the seams. It is necessary to exclude uneven lines, raw cuts, protruding threads. This indicates a low quality and a bad reputation of the manufacturer;
4. When choosing winter or demi-season clothing, experts recommend purchasing a 2.5-layer membrane. Since 2-layer is considered short-lived, 3-layer has a significant weight, which will make it difficult for both adults and children to move.

How to wear membrane clothing so that it works correctly, pleases not only with its functionality, but also with its aesthetic appearance? The main thing in operation is layering:

• The first layer is underwear;
• The second layer is insulation;
• The third layer is outerwear (jacket, pants, overalls).

It is undesirable to wear all things made of natural materials, as they tend to absorb moisture. And you need to remember: the membrane works only during the period of active human actions.

In spring and autumn, it is advisable to use thermal underwear. And at -5˚ you need to warm up by wearing a woolen or fleece suit.

Additional functions

• Additional ventilation. Membrane clothing for men has good vapor permeability, but no consumer will refuse additional ventilation of the suit. It can be represented by the presence of "pit-zips" of lightning. Additional ventilation takes place in membrane clothing for hunting in places where there is no direct rain. It can be a zipper that is inserted into the inside of the sleeve, passing through the armpit and down the side seam. And in trousers, the zipper is inserted into the inner side of the thigh. If the temperature rises, it can be unfastened. The entire thermoregulation of the entire membrane structure depends on the length of the zipper;
• Mesh lined pockets. In some models, manufacturers use pockets based on a mesh lining. It provides additional ventilation;
• Self-dumping trousers. This function is found in tourist, mountaineering, skitouring / freeride equipment. The model has excellent ventilation. And the design itself has the property of quickly putting on or removing an extra layer, focusing on the weather, without removing shoes;
• Additional processing. By treating the material with a liquid with fluorine, a protective film is formed on the structure, which repels moisture, but allows air to pass through. The fabric is not afraid of external pollution and ultraviolet;
• Fleece or soft inserts. Eliminate the contact of the membrane with the human body, increase its durability;
• Visor made of flexible material. The element covers the face in windy, rainy weather or during snowfall;
• Snow skirt. Additional protection piece for severe cold weather, used for climbing and other activities.

Photo

The first membrane fabric appeared in the 80s of the twentieth century. It was a Gore-Tex membrane - mega-famous nowadays. It was used in the manufacture of space suits for astronauts, clothing for travelers on an international expedition to Antarctica. Later, one of the travelers said that this fabric saved his life. A few decades later, even children wear membrane clothing, and not just astronauts and advanced skiers.

A surprise awaits the most attentive! Somewhere among the text, we hid a discount coupon.

Many parents choose it for its unique properties:

• heat preservation;
• impermeability;
• excellent air circulation.

GoreTex is the patented name for the first membrane fabric. However, it is not used everywhere. To reduce the cost of production, many companies have developed their own membrane fabric. It may be called differently SympaTex, HuppaTex, SkandiTex, etc., but they have the same principle of operation and properties. The most popular are hydroporous membrane fabrics - a material with microscopic pores through which water does not pass, and sweat evaporates.

The membrane is a thin rubberized coating glued from the inside to the upper fabric or impregnation applied to the fabric in a hot way. We have photographed the reverse side of the Huppa fabric samples to show what the hydroporous membrane looks like.

Who is membrane clothing suitable for and how to choose it?

Previously, it was believed that membrane clothing is only suitable for active children, but at present this statement is not true. For example, the Huppa Keira jumpsuit with 300 g insulation is suitable for sedentary babies. The membrane itself does not heat, but only removes moisture and helps to retain the heat that the body generates when moving. The insulation is warm, and there is a lot of it in this overalls. In this case, the membrane protects against getting wet and provides good air exchange. Therefore, we say with confidence that absolutely any child, even a newborn, can wear membrane clothing, if there is a sufficient amount of insulation in it.

When choosing winter clothes with a membrane, you need to look at the following characteristics:

1. Waterproof. 1000-3000 mm - will withstand light drizzle, 3000-5000 mm - a good indicator that allows you to play in wet snow and not get wet in the rain, 5000-10000 mm - an excellent indicator that is not afraid of long walks and even falling into puddles.
2. Breathability. This indicator indicates how well the fabric "breathes". The higher the indicator, the better and faster the evaporation is removed. Sedentary babies do not need high rates, since they do not even have time to sweat (up to 5000 g / m2 / 24 hours). For active children and sports activities, 5000-10000 g / m2 / 24h is optimal.
3. Top coating of fabric, additional impregnations. If the fabric is treated with a water-repellent impregnation, then it will not get wet for a long time, even if the membrane performance is not very high. For example, in Taffalar jackets, the upper fabric is treated with a DWR coating and all the water simply rolls off.
4. amount of insulation. The more insulation, the warmer. For freezing children, it is better to choose clothes with a heater of 250-400 g, for active children up to 200 g.

How to dress under the membrane?

Sporty, bright, comfortable - this is how a child will feel in Didriksons clothes! We wrote a detailed one, so we will not repeat ourselves, but only briefly talk about key features.

Didrik's winter clothes are thin and light, with a small amount of insulation.

Very big assortment - jackets, trousers, semi-overalls, suits, overalls. Jackets, suits and overalls with different amounts of insulation (200 and 300 g) so that everyone can choose the best model for their child. We recently wrote a review of the new Huppa winter clothing collection, in which we showed the functional features of the models.

All clothes are thought out to the smallest detail:

1. Removable hoods.
2. Sleeve cuffs with elastic or with internal knitted cuffs and Velcro adjustment.
3. Legs with elastic or with internal snow protection.
4. The straps of semi-overalls and trousers are adjustable.
5. Shoe pegs.
6. Reflective elements.

This year, the manufacturer has released models with two options for the membrane and insulation. For example, the Huppa Wonder costume:

1. Insulation 300/160 g (jacket / semi-overalls), membrane 10000 mm / 10000 g / m2 / 24h.
2. Insulation 200/120 g, membrane 10000 mm/10000 g/m2/24h. Hood without hem.

The Huppa Willy overalls are also available with two insulation options - 200 and 300 g. Warmer models are decorated with fur (not detachable).

The Amika jacket, popular with boys, comes with 300 g insulation. Very warm and comfortable.

Very thin and light clothing for the winter. In cold weather, there is a risk of freezing. Beautiful collection with a wide range of colors. Sewn simply and concisely, without many functional features. Basically, 180 grams of insulation is used. You can't do without a warm undergarment. It is inexpensive compared to other brands. We recommend reading the review of Lassie outerwear and shoes.

Coupon -10% for all winter clothes : WINTER
Can be combined with website discounts. The coupon is valid until December 31, 2018.

A membrane is a thin film of polymeric materials that is soldered onto the main fabric used for sewing clothes and shoes. Modern membrane films are of two types:

• microporous- the most popular. Such membranes have billions of microscopic holes - pores. They are too small to allow water droplets to pass through, but large enough for water vapor to pass freely through them - the moisture that evaporates from the skin. Thanks to these holes, the membrane acquires its properties: the ability to protect against water and at the same time "breathe", that is, release the body's evaporation to the outside.

• Non-porous. They consist of two layers of fibers with different physical properties: the top layer repels moisture, the bottom one absorbs water vapor and releases it into the environment. Poreless membranes are stronger than microporous ones, but inferior to them in terms of vapor permeability.

As for the base fabric, most often these are synthetic materials - polyester, nylon and others. The membrane can be laminated on almost any material, up to denim, but modern synthetics still work best.
According to the manufacturing technology, membrane fabrics are divided into two main types:

1. Double layer (2L). Such a membrane, soldered onto the fabric, is protected from the inside by a clothing lining. This is the most common and affordable option.
2. Three-layer (3L). A special protective layer is applied over such a membrane, which protects it from damage during intense friction against the lining. This option is more reliable, but significantly more expensive, therefore it is used mainly for professional and extreme equipment.

How to choose clothes with a membrane

When choosing clothes made of membrane fabric, you need to at least roughly imagine the conditions under which you will use the item. So you can pick membrane with an optimal ratio of water resistance and vapor permeability.

This ratio is indicated by numbers like 5.000 / 10.000, where the first is water resistance, the second is vapor permeability. The first indicator determines how strong and prolonged rainfall the clothing will withstand, the second determines the degree of physical activity at which the membrane will cope with the removal of moisture from the body, because the more actively you move, the more you sweat.

Let's take a look at these metrics.

Water resistance:

• 3.000 - light rain for a short time
• 5.000 – 7.000 – moderate rain
• 10.000 - 15.000 - heavy prolonged downpour, sleet
• 20.000 - storm. Membranes with this water resistance rating are used for extreme hiking and yachting clothing.

Vapor permeability:

• 3.000 - low activity (walking at a calm pace)
• 5.000 - 7.000 - average activity (cross-country walking, jogging)
• 10.000 - 15.000 - high activity (alpine skiing and other outdoor sports)

Warning: common misconception

It is important to understand that the membrane does not protect against the cold. Its meaning is to protect against rain and sweat during physical activity. Membrane clothing will not keep you warm in cold weather, and at low temperatures, additional insulation will definitely be required.

Why can membrane things get wet?

If your membrane jacket or shoes are still wet, this does not mean that the item is of poor quality. The reasons may be the following.

• Membrane characteristics do not match the strength and duration of precipitation, or you are literally in the water. Water resistance is not the same as water resistance: if you walk in a membrane shoe for many hours in a swamp or melted snow, it will get wet sooner or later. If you are literally sitting in a puddle (this happens, for example, on water trips), after a while your membrane trousers will begin to let water through.
• You feel "wet", although the vapor permeability of the membrane is chosen correctly. This happens when the humidity of the surrounding air approaches 90-100%. Alas, the membrane does not have a mechanism for forced removal of water vapor, it works due to a simple physical difference in the concentration of moisture inside and outside the clothes: it removes evaporation to where the humidity is lower.

You can consider this as a disadvantage of membrane clothing and shoes, but before drawing conclusions, remember about absolutely waterproof materials. They are not able to remove moisture from the body, so they create the effect of a "plastic bag". So the choice is yours!

Valeria Malysheva, Forclaz Brand Manager at Decathlon Russia:

Membrane jackets for me are a lifesaver not only when it rains, but also when crossing windy passes. They protect well from the wind and retain heat, despite the fact that they do not look "warm". They retain body heat and keep you warm. Last April we were hiking in Corsica and 5 hours in +10 rain is a real test for any jacket."

Aleksey Mishin, cyclist, personal record - single cycling trip Arkhangelsk-Novorossiysk (approx. 2700 km):

For a cyclist, membrane clothing is a good choice: when you ride in the rain, you sweat just as much as in good weather, but at the same time you feel completely comfortable and protected from both water and strong wind. And even if the clothes get wet under a particularly cruel downpour, they dry very quickly - an invaluable property in field conditions, when there is no time to dry for a long time, because you need to move on.

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The characteristics of clothing for active sports are reminiscent of a Chinese letter. What is "membrane", "fleece" and "gore-tex"? Why do you need thermal underwear? How do "moisture-proof" and breathable properties of things combine? "SE Extreme" reveals the secrets of snow clothing!

Lucky us, modern little men! We snowboard and ski, climb, ecotourize, track and God knows what else, and there are special clothes for all this. These are not only jackets and pants, but also underwear, socks and shoes, the development of which takes into account the characteristics of a particular type of activity. We have at our disposal membranes, and down jackets, and impregnations, and anatomical suspension brackets of backpacks - there is just nothing. In general, everything is fine with us, we even complain sometimes: “I want not a two-layer, but a three-layer jacket, and so that with pockets!”

If you look back and think about how people used to cope with the vagaries of nature, how they walked, got wet in the rain and snow, carrying their wealth in grandfather's style backpacks, it becomes somehow uncomfortable. Although some don't remember, there was nothing but canvas jackets, quilted jackets, sweaters and woolen socks. But, despite all the inconveniences, people always went to the mountains, conquered the peaks, skied. They had one wisdom: the colder it is, the more you need to put on yourself. These were strong people, hardy and unassuming.

But then they got tired of it, and progress began in the production of fabrics suitable for active outdoor use. The development of special materials was in full swing: people began to puzzle over how to make the fabric as light and efficient as possible, so that it would not get wet, not blown, so that it would warm and remove moisture from the body.

Among the first to succeed were Wilbert and Genevieve Gore, who founded the Gore Company (W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc.) in 1958. Wilbert (Bill) Gore worked for DuPont for 17 years, but then life took a different path, and that same Gore private enterprise was born. Over the next 12 years, the company has achieved almost worldwide recognition and has taken a leading position in the market. Thus began the history of the clothing membrane.

WHAT IS THE MEMBRANE EATED WITH?

So, let's try to figure out what a membrane (membrane tissue) is and what it is eaten with. Technically, a membrane is something like a film of a special structure, and membrane tissue is a matter in the structure of which this very special film is present. There is a world classification that allows you to divide all membrane tissues into several types.

By structure, the membrane can be non-porous, porous and combined.

Poreless membranes They work according to the following principle: body vapors enter the inner part of the membrane, settle on it and, through active diffusion, quickly move to the outside. The advantage of non-porous membranes is that they are durable, do not require careful maintenance, and work properly in a wide temperature range. Such membranes are usually used in expensive and functional products. What are its shortcomings? At first it may seem that the clothes get wet, but these are just the same fumes that accumulate on the inside of the thing. That is, non-porous membranes begin to breathe more slowly, however, when they “open up”, they sometimes surpass porous ones in terms of breathing properties.

Pore ​​membranes they work according to a different principle: water drops that fall on the membrane tissue from the outside cannot pass through the pores of the membrane inside, since these pores are too small. Accordingly, the outside of the fabric does not get wet.

On the other hand, the vapor molecules formed during the release of sweat are freely removed from the inside of the membrane tissue. As a result, we get the waterproofness of the membrane fabric on the outside of the product and the breathable (steam-removing) properties from the inside. The advantage of pore membranes is that they begin to breathe "quickly": they remove vapors as soon as you start to sweat. What are the disadvantages? This membrane “dies” quite quickly, that is, it loses its properties. In case of improper washing (especially with spinning!) the pores of the membrane are clogged, which greatly reduces the breathing properties - the jacket may begin to “leak”. This disadvantage can manifest itself if you are not a particular fan of taking care of your things.

Membrane combination: The fabric of the upper is covered with a porous membrane on the inside, and on top of the porous membrane there is another coating: a non-porous polyurethane membrane film. This fabric combines all the advantages of porous and non-porous membranes, while avoiding their disadvantages, a kind of "two in one". But high technology comes at a high price. It is for this reason that very few companies use this membrane in their products.

In addition to the above division, there is a difference in the material design itself. By design, membrane tissues are divided into supra-two-layer, three-layer and so-called “two-and-a-half” layers. These words are probably familiar to snowboarders and skiers, as well as people who spend enough time in the mountains.

Double layer fabric- this is a fabric on which a membrane is applied in a special way from the wrong side (usually white, but it can be transparent or with some other dye). In products, this fabric is always used with a lining, because it provides proper protection of the membrane from clogging and mechanical damage.

Three layer fabric looks like a fabric with a fine mesh from the inside. In fact, this is a top fabric plus a membrane, plus a knitted mesh, glued into one structure using a special lamination technology. The knitted mesh on the inside protects the membrane from both mechanical damage and clogging. The most important thing: in three-layer products, the use of a lining disappears - there is only one “rag” in which all three components are assembled. As a result, we have: a mega-light fabric that does not restrict movement, a small volume of the product and maximum functionality. The combination of these excellent qualities explains the high cost of products made of three-layer fabric.

"Two-and-a-half"-layer membrane fabric is a novelty in the market of modern clothes. It doesn’t sound very Russian, but it accurately conveys the meaning of technology. As a rule, this is an ordinary two-layer membrane fabric, covered from the inside with a kind of protective coating (foamed protective coating in the form of pimples, just knitted pimples, etc.), designed to perform the function of the third layer, i.e. membrane protection. Such jackets are as light as possible - they do not need a lining, and the weight of the protection is much less than that of three-layer materials. But, as you might guess, products made from this fabric are by no means cheap.

By the way, the already mentioned GoreTex, from which we started the discussion of the topic, is just a patented name for a membrane of a certain structure. For a long time, the company was practically a monopolist in the extreme clothing market, but now many respected and well-known companies produce no less respected membrane fabrics. For example, Toray (Japan) (Dermizax, Entrant HB), Event (USA, made in Japan), Unitika (Japan). These are leaders in the field of technologies for the production of membrane fabrics, which are used in their production by the world's leading brands that produce clothing and footwear for outdoor activities and sports.

There are two other important parameters that you need to pay attention to when buying pants and jackets for outdoor activities - these are waterproofness and breathable properties of fabrics.

Waterproof Roughly speaking, this is the pressure of the water column that this fabric can withstand. A piece of fabric is placed in a special machine, stretched, and a column of pressurized water is directed at it. The pressure is gradually increased and they watch at what point drops appear on the back of the cloth.

Indicators: 20.000 means that the fabric does not get wet in stormy conditions (strong wind, slanting heavy rain, snow); 10.000 - the fabric can withstand heavy rain; around 5,000 light rain and snow; around 3000 - drizzling rain and wet light snow.

Breathability depend on the amount of steam that the fabric passes over a certain period of time (now the unit of measurement is “X grams per square meter of fabric in 24 hours”). A piece of fabric is also placed in a special machine, where evaporation is simulated, and after 24 hours, they look at how much moisture the fabric has “taken away”. That is, the larger the number, the more moisture is removed. For example, in expensive quality products, water resistance is usually at least 20,000 mm of water column, and breathability is at least 8,000 g/sq. m./day. Mid-level membrane typically has a specification of 8.000mm/5.000g/sq. m/day or so.

The base level is usually 3000mm/3000gsm. m / day, although in products made from this type of fabric, insufficiently high membrane characteristics can be well combined with the presence of a large number of ventilation holes that allow you to control the temperature inside the product.

To provide additional protection from external moisture, there is such a thing as DWR coating. If you pour a little water on a fabric treated with DWR, then the droplets do not absorb, but lie on the fabric, rolling into balls! This is the result of the work of DWR (Durable Water Repellence) - a coating that does not allow water to pass even through the top layer of the fabric (that is, to be absorbed into it). DWR, however, is not a durable thing (it is applied during the production of clothes) and disappears over time (washed off). So in the future, during operation and contact with water, wet spots may appear on the fabric. This does not mean at all that the product gets wet, since the membrane will not let water through anyway, but some discomfort may be present. The resulting layer of water on top will not allow the membrane to work, no matter how “cool” it is. In this case, the penetration of water into the product is possible in the porous membranes. How to deal with it? To avoid DWR dying, specially designed products with this very DWR coating (NIKWAX for example), which are sold in stores selling extreme clothing, will help. If, after washing (or more often), for example, NIKWAX or another similar agent is applied to the fabric, then the product will definitely last longer than if this is not done.

After such an abundance of information, the question is logical: “But how to take care of membrane clothing?” Let's say right away that it is necessary to wash membrane things, but not in the same way as ordinary ones. Do not use washing powders with bleach and other aggressive substances - they clog and destroy pores. You can not use machine spinning - the membrane deteriorates from this, as spinning violates its fine structure. Do not dry clean or use bleach. Do not iron - the synthetic fabric of the top will melt, and the membrane will also be damaged! You can wash clothes by hand with special detergents for washing membrane fabrics (NIKWAX again); if the product is not too dirty, you can wash it with ordinary soap, and rub the especially dirty places with a brush. Can be left to dry on a string. DWR can be applied to a dry product from a spray can. I would like to note that DWR impregnation should only be applied to clean items, since when impregnating dirty material, you will not achieve a water-repellent effect. Detergents must have an inscription on the packaging - "allowed for membrane fabrics"! That's all the main secrets.

All of the above by and large refers to the top layer of clothing. It's time to say a few words about the middle, or bottom, layer, and about what materials, fabrics and tricky terms we may encounter when choosing such products.

Let's start with fleece. Fleece- this is a large group of fabrics that are made as follows: knots are tied on a sufficiently strong woven base by machine, then another machine breaks them, and a pile is obtained, which is tied to the base. It must be admitted that many people often get confused in terms of "fleece" and Polartec. Dispel your doubts: Polartec is just a fleece brand. That is, high quality fleece from Malden Mills is called Polartec. That's all wisdom.

Why is fleece recommended for active sports? Between the pile (from which, in fact, the fleece is made), a layer of air is preserved, which, as you know, is the best thermal insulator. In addition, unlike natural fabrics (such as cotton), a good fleece does not accumulate moisture, but provides the necessary ventilation in case of overheating and removes condensate to the outside. This is one of the main reasons why a “fleece” (fleece jacket) is recommended for active skiing, especially in the mountains - good fleece means warmth, dryness and comfort. But note: fleece will work in this way only if you put on thermal underwear under it, and not your favorite cotton T-shirt, which, for all its beauty, unfortunately, does not remove moisture and immediately gets wet.

Fleeces also come in membrane and non-membrane. With non-membrane, everything is clear - there is no membrane in the structure of the tissue. Membrane fleece consists, as it were, of three layers, "glued" into one.

Membrane fleece

1. Soft shell. Structure: top - durable fabric that does not absorb moisture and is resistant to wear; the middle layer is the membrane; bottom - fleece. In some cases, the membrane may be absent in the structure of the fabric, since in fleece fabrics it is by no means the main component. Windproofness is achieved through special tight weaving.

2. Windbloc(wind protection). Structure: the top layer is a treated fleece fabric (anti-piling, DWR), the middle layer is a membrane (sometimes foam is used instead of a membrane), the bottom layer is a pile fleece that collects moisture and removes it from the body.

Non-membrane fleece

1. Non-membrane Softshell- this is essentially a "sandwich", two glued types of fabric. The upper provides abrasion and tear resistance, while the one closer to the body warms and wicks away perspiration by quickly absorbing.

2. Polartec Thermal Pro- it is a warm, lightweight, moisture-repellent material, consists of two layers. The abrasion-resistant outer shell keeps out wind and light rain, while the soft fleecy inner layer provides maximum insulation. At the same time, moisture vapor from the body is freely removed to the outside. Thermal Pro made of polyester fibers is very durable and dries quickly. Unlike many fleecy fabrics, the material retains its heat-insulating properties and does not "roll" after repeated washes.

3. Polartec WindPro- A material with a denser structure than Thermal Pro, with increased wind protection characteristics.

4. Polartec 200 and similar quality fleece from other manufacturers- soft and almost weightless material. It has excellent thermal insulation properties. Unlike natural fabrics, it does not accumulate, but removes excess moisture from the body. In terms of thermal properties per gram of material, Polartec 200 is twice that of sheep's wool and more than three times that of cotton.

Having comprehended all of the above, we can distinguish the main properties of high-quality fleece:

• Long service life (retains its heat-insulating properties for a long time).
• Thanks to a special anti-pilling coating, the pile does not roll into hated spools even after repeated washes.
• Fleece does not wrinkle, has a pleasant to the touch structure.

Fleece, like outerwear (for example, for skiing), also requires special care. It can (and should!) be washed by hand or in a washing machine. If by hand, then with ordinary soap in warm water at a temperature not exceeding 40 degrees. If in the machine, then at the same temperature, using the “gentle wash for synthetic fabrics” mode. Fleece clothing will last longer if washed with special gentle detergents and then rinsed in a solution that restores water repellency (for example, Nikwax Polar Proof). Fleece should not be ironed and dried in a washing machine or on a battery. Hang on a string or on a hanger - clothes will dry and keep a decent look.

How can all of the above be applied in everyday life and why is all this needed? If you are a snowboarder and skier, you probably know that skiing conditions in the mountains and in the city are always different. The "cabbage" version of clothing is considered a classic. First layer: thermal underwear (special tight-fitting sweatshirts and sweatpants) + ski socks (rather than ordinary woolen ones). The second layer is fleece, the third is outerwear (pants-jacket or overalls) plus a hat / helmet, mittens / gloves. Depending on the weather, the set may vary. The point is that all sweat removal technologies work only together, and if you put on a sweater and your favorite T-shirt under a membrane jacket, then there will be no sense in the membrane. And when everything is right, then everyone is dry and comfortable. What else does a person need?

And a little about money: as we said, good quality requires a good investment. If you are not ready to spend a serious amount on clothes right away, start with less - buy things in parts. For example, at the beginning of the season, buy thermal underwear, then fleece, and after that, “splurge” on membrane things. Dress appropriately and don't be cold!

What other inscriptions can be found on the label? Rip Stop- this is the name of the method of weaving fabric, which in its structure resembles a grid or honeycomb. That is, both thin and thick threads are used in this texture, which makes it possible to produce a durable and at the same time lightweight material. Twill weaving- It is a pleasant to the touch smooth material with excellent strength characteristics. Resist Techno Soft Shell- material belonging to the class of membrane fleece. The latest in high-tech fabrics from the Softshell series, Resist Techno Soft Shell is a completely new material that provides comfort during skiing and active sports, perfectly retains heat. In addition, this fleece, in fact, works like thermal underwear - it actively removes evaporation during intensive loads and retains heat. Fabric windbloc- combines the heat-insulating and "breathing" properties of fleece and the wind and moisture resistance of the outer layer. Membrane outer surface blocks wind; the inner layer of the fabric removes excess moisture.