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Technology · Sympatex Technologies

Sympatex

A non-porous membrane that moves moisture by molecular diffusion rather than through pores, with a strong recyclability position.

Specifications last verified 2026-09-01Independent documentation

Manufacturer specification

Published figures only — nothing estimated

Owner
Sympatex Technologies
Membrane type
Non-porous hydrophilic polyester membrane
Construction options
Could not be verified from the accessible official documentation
Waterproof rating
Not publicly specified by manufacturer
Breathability rating
Not publicly specified by manufacturer
Air permeability
Not publicly specified by manufacturer
Typical price segment
Varies by garment.
Weight characteristics
Varies by face fabric and construction rather than by membrane alone.
Durability characteristics
Durability depends on the textile, laminate, seams, use and care; denier alone does not establish abrasion resistance.
DWR requirements
Face fabrics carry a durable water repellent finish. Repellency wears off with use and needs reproofing; the membrane itself is unaffected.
PFAS / PFC information
Check the current season's material declaration. Many brands have moved to PFAS-free repellent finishes, and platforms differ by year and by garment.

WaterproofJacket.com assessment

Our editorial analysis, not a manufacturer claim

Main advantages

  • PTFE-free and recyclable membrane
  • Consistent waterproofing without pores to contaminate
  • Common in workwear and city rainwear

Main disadvantages

  • Diffusion-based transfer can feel slower during hard effort
  • Less common in high-end alpine shells

Best uses

  • Commuting
  • Everyday rain
  • Workwear

Poor uses

  • Maximum-output mountain effort

Care instructions

  • Follow the garment label and official care instructions. Use the specified cleaner; Gore permits a small amount of suitable liquid detergent for conventional GORE-TEX outerwear. Avoid products those instructions prohibit.
  • For DWR-finished garments, clean first and reproof only if needed, following garment and treatment instructions. Do not apply DWR to persistent-beading constructions such as SHAKEDRY.
  • Tumble dry warm or press with a cool iron under a cloth if the care label allows, to reactivate the finish.

Sources

Official documentation and standards we relied on