What are the differences between Sympatex© and other waterproof membranes?

Lagoped has made a strategic and ecological choice by opting for the Sympatex membrane for its waterproof clothing . This choice is based on several fundamental criteria: technical performance, environmental commitment, and alignment with the brand's values ​​of sustainability and ethics. We explain the reasons behind this decision and its implications for consumers and the outdoor industry.

Like other membranes on the market, the Sympatex membrane is renowned for its exceptional technical qualities. It offers total waterproofing, optimal breathability and effective windproofing . These characteristics are crucial for mountaineering, hiking, skiing, etc. clothing, which must protect outdoor sports enthusiasts in extreme weather conditions while ensuring maximum comfort.

Produced by Sympatex Technologies GmbH, a German company , the Sympatex membrane guarantees perfect waterproofing thanks to its hydrofilic structure , which repels external water while allowing water vapor (perspiration) to escape. This keeps the body dry, even in pouring rain.

Unlike other waterproof membranes on the market, it is called "full" because it does not have "holes" which are pores. A significant advantage!

It is based on a physicochemical principle: we can imagine a membrane made up of two fabrics, an outer fabric which is hydrophobic, it does not like water and prevents it from penetrating, and an inner fabric which is hydrophilic, it likes water and absorbs the water vapor generated by body heat and rejects it to the outside.

These absorption and evaporation processes allow the transfer of moisture through the membrane and ensure its breathability. This membrane works by pressure difference between the internal face (body side) and external face (outer side) of the membrane. The greater the differences in temperature and humidity, the greater and more effective the breathable effect of the Sympatex membrane will be. It is therefore perfectly adapted to different sports activities and weather conditions.

Additionally, by completely blocking wind, Sympatex helps maintain a stable body temperature, which is essential for comfort and performance outdoors.

Many waterproof membranes rely on microscopic pores for effective weather protection and breathability. These pores are small enough to prevent liquid water from seeping in while allowing water vapor molecules to pass through, resulting in efficient wicking of body moisture.

However, the pores may become clogged over time , which is not the case with the Sympatex membrane, the functions of which are maintained over the long term.

The presence of PFAS , also known as “forever pollutants,” in garments with certain waterproof membranes is raising growing concerns about sustainability and environmental safety . These chemicals, used for their water-repellent properties, are known to persist in the environment and have the potential to accumulate in ecosystems and living organisms. While waterproof garments with these other membranes provide high-quality protection against the elements, the presence of PFAS raises questions about their long-term impact on human health and the environment.

With growing awareness of environmental concerns, consumers are increasingly looking for sustainable and environmentally friendly alternatives for their outdoor clothing, highlighting the need for innovations in the field of waterproof membranes.

Lagoped and Sympatex share a common vision: to minimize the environmental impact of their products. The Sympatex membrane stands out for its ecological approach to production and recyclability.

The Sympatex membrane is made from 100% recycled polyester , which reduces the dependence on fossil resources and decreases the carbon footprint. With the waterproof membrane used by Lagoped, Sympatex guarantees a 100% recycled membrane, which is added to the two other layers (inner and outer), also made of 100% recycled material. This use of recycled materials aligns perfectly with Lagoped's commitment to sustainability.

Sympatex is also 100% recyclable , thanks to its manufacturing from polyester monomaterials, creating a closed loop where materials can be reused at the end of their life , thus reducing textile waste. Lagoped integrates this approach into its production cycle, contributing to a circular economy.

The membrane is certified free of PTFE and PFC , chemicals often used in other waterproof membranes but harmful to the environment and human health.

The choice of the Sympatex membrane by Lagoped is not only motivated by technical and environmental criteria, but also by a deep alignment with the ethical values ​​of the brand.

Lagoped advocates total transparency in its manufacturing processes and chooses partners who share this ethic. Sympatex regularly publishes sustainability reports and engages in transparency initiatives , thus strengthening consumer trust.

By choosing Sympatex, Lagoped supports a community of brands and consumers committed to preserving the environment. Indeed, the brand raises awareness among its customers about the importance of choosing sustainable and responsible products.

Lagoped’s choice of Sympatex membrane for its waterproof clothing is a testament to the brand’s commitment to performance, sustainability, and ethics. By combining Sympatex’s technical qualities with a shared vision of environmental responsibility, Lagoped offers its customers products that not only meet the highest outdoor requirements, but also contribute to the preservation of our planet. This partnership demonstrates how innovation and sustainability can go hand in hand to create high-performance, environmentally friendly outdoor clothing.

To equip yourself in an informed manner, we will always invite you to find out about the characteristics of the products. This is why you will find on our blog, transparent articles on our choices of raw materials and technologies.