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WHAT´S The Difference between GORE-TEX (-INFINIUM), DERMIZAX AND SYMPATEX?
What is the difference between “waterproof” and “water-repellent”?
You will get the answers to these questions here, so you can use this knowledge to find the right equipment for your adventure.
Most outdoor clothing is protected against the penetration of water, one way or another. Where exactly the differences are and how big they are, is often difficult to see. Most of the time a distinction is made between the properties “waterproof” and “water-repellent”.
Waterproof
Waterproof means that the material used is so dense that absolutely no water can get through and you stay dry, no matter how long you are out in the rain. With completely waterproof jackets, at least the surface will soak up water, but the layers underneath should remain completely dry. Welded zips are used, closures without additional protection can be a major weakness, as a lot of water can penetrate through these areas into the jacket when it rains with headwind, for example. In addition, a permanently repellent impregnation (DWR) is used for waterproof clothing.
What is a permanently repellent impregnation? DWR – durable water repellent – is an impregnation on materials that is activated by chemical or thermal treatment. It ensures that the water does not even come to the surface of the jacket, for example, but beads up immediately on contact. It is important to note that waterproof clothing does not remain waterproof forever. Since the protection can be lost through soiling or damage to the membrane. With an additional impregnation the protection lasts longer. Manufacturers recommend to reapply the waterproofing regularly to maintain the best protection.
If you are looking for guaranteed reliable protection against wetness in all situations, it should be “waterproof”. Whether in the mountains or in the city, in sudden rain waterproof clothing will give you the best possible protection.
Water-repellent
Water-repellent, sometimes also called water-resistant, means that the water rolls off the surface and thus does not penetrate into the interior. However, you will not stay dry if you are exposed to continuous or heavy rain for a long time. By definition, textiles are water-repellent if they have a water column of less than 8,000 mm, everything above that designated waterproof. Water-repellent clothing is therefore ideal for everyday life, jogging round with rain showers, shorter hikes or similar activities .
Gore-Tex (-Infinium)
Gore-Tex and Gore-Tex-Infinium differ in one main key feature. While the Gore-Tex membrane belongs to the “waterproof” category and is therefore perfectly suited for extreme weather conditions, Gore-Tex-Infinium belongs to the “water-repellent” category. It is therefore very much suitable for everyday use, while Gore-Tex is more suitable for everyday use and everything beyond.
Dermizax
In addition to the probably best known membrane, Gore-Tex, there are several others that are less well known.
Dermizax is a climate membrane which, just like Gore-Tex, is waterproof, windproof and breathable. The breathability of textiles with Dermizax membrane increases the more you sweat in it. This means that the breathability adapts to your needs. That is why Dermizax is particularly suitable for movement-intensive sports. In addition, the membrane is very soft and can be stretched up to 200 %, which has a particularly positive effect on wearing comfort. In addition, Dermizax is partially recyclable.
Sympatex
Sympatex is a weather protection membrane which, just like Gore-Tex and Dermizax, is both 100 % waterproof, windproof and breathable. How does it differ from the other membranes? The main distinguishing features are that Sympatex is fully recyclable and, unlike Dermizax, is 300 % stretchable, making it perfect for elastic clothing. In addition to its breathability, waterproofness and windproofness, Sympatex is also extremely comfortable to wear and environmentally friendly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the three membranes, Gore-Tex, Dermizax and Sympatex, are all waterproof, windproof and breathable.
While the Gore-Tex-Infinium membrane belongs to the water-repellent membranes, it is therefore not 100 % waterproof. But it is windproof and breathable and serves as insulation as well.
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