Membrane jacket

The membrane itself is a microscopic film that has special windproof and water-repellent properties, but is capable of passing water vapor. It is welded or glued to the upper part of the fabric using a special technology. This is how membrane tissue is obtained. The skin in the membrane jacket breathes and sweat is expelled to the outside.

The main characteristics of membranes are waterproofness and breathability.

There are porous, non-porous and combined membranes.

Pore ​​membranes are made up of tiny pores. When we sweat, the sweat molecule becomes water vapor and goes up through the pores. Water cannot seep in, because the water drop is much larger in size. This fabric is delicate and needs to be carefully cared for. If the care is insufficient, the membrane deteriorates in a short time - the pores become clogged, the breathing properties deteriorate.

Poreless membranes do not have pores. Vapors, rising to the inner surface of the membrane, settle there and, due to active diffusion, are removed to the outer surface. This means that a jacket with such a membrane will last a long time, does not need emergency care and is designed for various temperature conditions. But its "breathing" properties are lower.

Combined membranes are a combination of porous and non-porous membranes. They combine their best properties, but the price of such membranes is exceptionally high.

1. The jacket made of membrane fabric is weightless and comfortable, does not constrain movements.
2. It is very warm if you are actively moving.
3. Thanks to the breathable properties, the child will not cry while you dress him. You can safely go to the store, bus or subway without fear of sweating and catching a cold.
4. Due to the water-repellent properties, you are not afraid of not only rain or snow, but also falling into a puddle.
5. Dirt is easily cleaned from membrane jackets, there is no need to wash it every day.

1. The main disadvantage is the price. A membrane jacket is an expensive item, especially when it comes to children who grow up very quickly.
2. Requires obligatory careful care.
3. Membrane jackets, especially porous ones, are short-lived, even with proper care.
4. You can't wear anything under this jacket. The bottom layer of clothing must be properly fitted.
5. A membrane jacket is not suitable for people who love everything natural.
6. The warmth in such a jacket is only when moving. If you plan to sit in a snowdrift or carry a child in a stroller, opt for something else.

First of all, carefully read the care instructions on the jacket label and try to follow them.

The temperature regime for the membrane is 30-40 degrees. Wash only by hand, so as not to damage the fabric. They also squeeze with their hands, without twisting. Cannot be soaked or ironed. To dry the product, it is not hung, but straightened on a horizontal surface.

There are two categories of membranes - microporous and hydrophilic.

The most famous microporous membrane - GORE-TEX - is high-quality, expensive, very breathable, and has good water-repellent properties.

A hydrophilic membrane is a very thin layer of polymer fabric with special properties. She has no pores, respectively, her water resistance is not affected by pressure. Dirt, dust and washing powder do not clog the membrane. This membrane is completely windproof and machine washable.

eVENT fabric is created using a new technology. Our skin is oily itself, and sebum clogs the membrane. Therefore, all microporous membranes need a special dirt-repellent impregnation. In eVENT technology, the base of the membrane - PTFE - is specially modified by chemical means, as a result of which the membrane itself acts as a fat repellent. This means that the pores of the membrane are not clogged with dirt, remaining open.

1. As with any purchase, check all fasteners (zippers, Velcro, hooks), seams and pockets. Everything should be smooth, neat and working. Well, if the seams are taped.
2. Decide if you're going to wear your jacket on a daily basis in the city or for hiking, mountaineering, training, and based on this, choose the level of waterproofness and breathability that you need.
3. Do not forget that the membrane is designed for movement, otherwise it will be cold in it. Do not buy membrane overalls for a baby sitting in a stroller. In addition, clothing under a membrane jacket should also be special - thermal underwear and a fleece or wool sweater. If you don’t have them in your wardrobe, it makes sense to purchase them along with a jacket.
4. Put on a jacket and move around in it. You should be comfortable. Pay attention to the collar and hood - it should have drawstrings that allow you to adjust it to your head. Do not forget - it is not the fabric that warms, but the layer of air between it and the body, the jacket should not be very tight-fitting.
5. In places of greatest friction, such as the bottom of the sleeve or the inside of the legs, the seams should be laid aside or omitted.

The UK produces Desert DPM camouflage with GORE-TEX membrane specifically for the army. Take a look at the new model. Sturdy, comfortable, sleek. Two chest pockets, "tractor" zipper, drawstring hood.

No less well-known company Columbia offers a new windbreaker model. The company works with Omni-Tech microporous membrane. The jacket has taped seams, two zippered pockets. The jacket can be folded and stored in a pocket.

Urban jacket with a three-layer membrane fabric TEXAPORE O2 SOFTSHELL 3L. Comfortable and durable in all weather conditions.

Norwegian model with Bergans Element Active 3-layer membrane. It can be used for tourism as well as worn in the city. Underarm ventilation and conveniently located zip pockets.

The ultra-lightweight (only 350g) Gore-Tex jacket has added padding on the shoulders for extra durability. The zipper is laminated.

Lightest jacket (193g) with dri1 2.5L membrane, very breathable and functional. There is a custom fit, several pockets, ventilation in the armpits.

All-weather jacket with GORE-TEX Active Shell membrane, perfectly fitted, breathable and comfortable, with underarm ventilation.

Membrane kit with Fellex insulation. Detachable hood, adjustable to fit, reflective details.Anatomical elements, snow skirts on the pants.

Overalls of the Canadian manufacturer with protection against snow. Wear protection, fleece lining on the back, hood and collar. DWR water repellent treatment. Temperature range from +5 to -30 degrees.