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Breathable
The breathability of a jacket refers to its ability to expel moisture vapor, primarily produced by sweat, to keep us as dry as possible.
When our body overheats, it exudes sweat, which then remains on the skin. The body heat causes this sweat to evaporate, and in doing so, it draws heat away from the body, lowering both skin and core temperature. This is our body's way of cooling down. If we hinder evaporation, we can face serious problems such as overheating, dehydration, and subsequent sudden cooling.
The ability of membranes applied to fabrics to facilitate moisture evaporation is crucial for ensuring comfort during outdoor activities, especially in high-intensity sports like skiing or hiking. Waterproof membranes, such as PTFE (Teflon) or polyurethane, work by blocking external water while allowing sweat vapor to escape. This process is vital in preventing the buildup of internal moisture that can lead to discomfort or chilling.
There are different degrees of breathability in membranes, measured in grams per square meter per 24 hours (g/m²/24h), indicating the amount of water vapor that can pass through the membrane in that time frame. Typical values vary as follows:
- Low breathability (5,000-10,000 g/m²/24h): Suitable for low-intensity activities or cold climates, where sweat generation is limited.
- Medium breathability (10,000-15,000 g/m²/24h): Designed for medium-intensity activities or conditions that require a balance between protection and thermal comfort.
- High breathability (15,000-20,000 g/m²/24h): Ideal for high-intensity sports or warm climates, where the evacuation of sweat is crucial to prevent saturation and overheating.
Our membrane boasts an impressive breathability rating of 20,000 g/m²/24h
Achieving a good balance between waterproofing and breathability is essential for membranes to perform effectively in outdoor sports, preventing both water ingress and excess moisture accumulation within the garment.
To facilitate sweat evaporation, it is recommended not to wear cotton base layers, as they retain moisture and hinder sweat evacuation. If we remain still with moisture clinging to our bodies, our temperature can drop, potentially leading to mild or moderate hypothermia.