What is Sympatex?
It’s a brand name for a type of waterproof and breathable fabric used in outdoor and performance apparel, including jackets, pants, and footwear. Designed to provide protection against challenging weather conditions, while allowing moisture vapor (perspiration) to escape from the garment, keeps you dry and comfortable.
Sympatex is made from a polyurethane membrane that’s laminated to a variety of outer fabrics, like nylon or polyester. This membrane contains tiny pores that are too small for water droplets to pass through but large enough to allow water vapor molecules to escape, preventing the buildup of moisture and humidity within the garment.
Key features:
Waterproof: keeps you dry even in wet conditions.
Breathable: allows moisture vapor to escape, promoting breathability and comfort during physical activity.
Windproof: helps to block wind, providing additional protection against cold and windy weather.
Environmentally Friendly: known for its commitment to sustainability and environmentally friendly production processes, the company emphasizes the use of eco-friendly materials and manufacturing techniques.
Sympatex fabric is favored by outdoor enthusiasts, athletes, and professionals who require high-performance clothing that can withstand harsh weather conditions while providing comfort and protection.
Sympatex vs Gore-tex
Both brands are known for manufacturing waterproof and breathable materials used in outdoor apparel and gear. Gore-Tex is a more established brand, but Sympatex has positioned itself as an eco-friendly alternative by using a PFC/PTFE-free manufacturing process, and stating that their materials are fully recyclable and biodegradable.
Gore-Tex has faced criticism in the past for its use of perfluorinated compounds (PFCs), which are chemicals that are harmful to the environment and can persist in the environment for a long time. They have, however, been working to reduce the environmental impact of Gore-Tex and have developed PFC-free alternatives.
Origin of Sympatex
Sympatex Technologies GmbH is a German company, founded in 1986 by Dr. Rudolf Merkel, a chemist and entrepreneur, who developed the Sympatex membrane technology as an alternative to existing waterproofing materials. The membrane is made from a hydrophilic polyether-ester material, and offers improved breathability and comfort compared to traditional waterproof membranes.
Since its founding, Sympatex has grown to become a leading supplier of waterproof membranes in the outdoor industry. The company is headquartered in Unterföhring, Germany, and its products are used by outdoor apparel brands worldwide.
