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Sympatex

Sympatex is a polyester-based waterproof, breathable, and windproof developed by the German company Sympatex Technologies , founded in 1986. It is used in functional textiles for outdoor apparel, footwear, and gear. The hydrophilic, non-porous consists of a of and polyether, transporting moisture via for dynamic breathability. It offers water column resistance exceeding 45,000 mm, full windproofing per DIN EN ISO 9237, up to 300% stretch, and durability after repeated washing. At 5 micrometers thick, it is the world's thinnest such . Sympatex has evolved through innovations in sustainable textiles, including PFAS- and PTFE-free production, OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 and bluesign® certifications, and 100% recyclability as a mono-material product. Since 2017, the company has achieved climate neutrality via CO2 compensation, with over 25% renewable raw materials incorporated since 2021 and a 30-fold lower than traditional alternatives.

Company Background

Founding and Development

Sympatex Technologies was established in as a from the membrane division of the Akzo Nobel Group, operating as a German-based entity focused on advanced textiles. Headquartered in Unterföhring near , the company aimed to innovate in functional fabrics from its inception. The founding initiative centered on creating an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional waterproof and breathable membranes, particularly those reliant on polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), which posed ecological concerns due to their chemical persistence. Akzo Nobel's research emphasized hydrophilic materials to achieve breathability without porosity, addressing limitations in durability and sustainability observed in microporous PTFE options. The technology was introduced to the market that same year, targeting outdoor apparel for its waterproof and vapor-permeable properties. In 2000, Sympatex was acquired by the German Ploucquet Group, marking a shift in ownership while preserving its focus on textile innovation.

Acquisitions and Milestones

In 2000, supplier C.F. Ploucquet acquired the Sympatex and business from Acordis Industrial Fibers, marking a significant ownership change that integrated Sympatex's with Ploucquet's expertise. This acquisition laid the groundwork for expanded production capabilities and a gradual emphasis on sustainable practices within the functional textiles sector. In 2001, Sympatex was acquired by . By the early 2000s, the company had expanded globally with subsidiaries in , , and the . By 2017, Sympatex achieved climate-neutral production for its entire membrane output through a combination of CO2 offsetting and internal process optimizations, positioning the company as an early leader in environmental accountability among functional textile manufacturers. In 2018, Sympatex introduced spun-dyeing technology in its laminates, integrating color directly into the raw material granulate to eliminate traditional dyeing processes and reduce water consumption by up to 90% compared to conventional methods. In 2021, Sympatex underwent a refresh, including a new brand claim "We are the first generation" to underscore its commitment to sustainable , and received the "Best for the World™" recognition from B Corp for ranking in the top 5% of certified companies worldwide in environmental performance. That same year, the company transitioned to incorporating over 25% bio-based raw materials in all its membranes, achieved through mass-balanced renewable feedstocks in partnership with , reducing CO2 emissions by approximately 12% per kilogram of polymer relative to fully fossil-based alternatives. Furthering its branding evolution, Sympatex updated its logo in 2025 to more prominently highlight themes, aligning with ongoing efforts to close the loop by 2030. In early 2025, the company participated in Lineapelle in , showcasing new sustainable innovations in functional for and accessories. Later that year, Sympatex co-hosted the Munich Fashion Award, supporting emerging European designers focused on sustainable concepts and connecting them with industry solutions.

Technology

Membrane Composition and Function

The Sympatex membrane is composed of a hydrophilic , which integrates segments derived from and polyether segments sourced from fossil fuels, rendering it 100% polyester-based and entirely free of and PTFE. This chemical makeup ensures the membrane is non-toxic, recyclable like PET bottles, and certified under OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 for health safety. Unlike microporous membranes such as , which rely on mechanical diffusion through physical pores, the Sympatex membrane features a monolithic, non-porous structure that prevents penetration while facilitating through physicochemical processes. molecules from external sources cannot pass due to the absence of openings, achieving a waterproof rating exceeding 45,000 mm per DIN 343 standards. For moisture management, hydrophilic molecular chains within the absorb from the body via gradients and transport it outward through , dynamically adjusting to increasing temperature and humidity levels to enhance vapor transmission during activity. This poreless design avoids issues like clogging from dirt, sweat salts, or detergents, maintaining consistent performance over time and after repeated washing. The membrane's reaches up to 25,000 g/m²/24h (MVTR), allowing effective wicking to keep wearers . Sympatex offers three thickness variants tailored to performance needs: Professional for enhanced durability in demanding environments, Allweather as a standard option balancing protection and comfort, and Windmaster at just 5 micrometers for ultralight applications without compromising core functions.

Lamination Processes and Variants

The Sympatex is integrated into textiles primarily through processes that bond it to fabric layers for enhanced durability and functionality. In a standard 3-layer system, the is sandwiched between an outer fabric and an inner , providing robust protection against while maintaining and waterproofness. Alternatively, a 2-layer configuration bonds the directly to the outer fabric via its inner surface, offering a lighter option suitable for less demanding applications. For specialized needs, 2.5-layer systems incorporate phase-change elements without a full inner , and 4-layer constructions, particularly for , add a spacer fabric between the and to improve airflow. Sympatex production begins with the extrusion of polyester-based polyether into a thin, non-porous using specialized , which is then laminated onto woven or knitted textiles. Since 2018, the company has incorporated spun- technology, where color pigments are mixed into the raw granulate before , reducing water consumption in dyeing by up to 75% compared to traditional methods. Several variants of the Sympatex membrane address specific performance requirements. HigH2Out features an enhanced absorbent inner lining that increases breathability by 120% over the standard membrane, ideal for high-activity scenarios where sweat management is critical. Reflexion includes a nanometer-thick aluminum coating between the membrane and lining, reflecting radiated and reducing heat loss by up to 3.6°C for improved thermal retention in cold conditions. Phaseable employs a 2.5-layer design with integrated phase-change materials that expand during increased activity to enhance and adapt to temperature fluctuations. Airflow, tailored for , utilizes a 4-layer structure with a knit spacer fabric that facilitates air circulation and moisture evacuation through foot movement. These laminates exhibit key performance characteristics, including full windproofing per DIN EN ISO 9237 standards, medium stretch for flexibility up to 300% elongation, and high heat retention in insulated variants.

Sustainability

Environmental Initiatives

Sympatex has committed to achieving across its production processes by 2030, emphasizing a closed- economy that incorporates recycled as key inputs to minimize and contributions. This initiative involves steadily increasing the use of recycled materials, targeting 50% of raw materials from the closed by 2025 and 100% recycled, recyclable, or bio-based plastics by 2030, enabling full ecological closure in functional . In 2025, Sympatex issued updated Responsible Design Guides for apparel and to support compliance with emerging regulations, including the PFAS restrictions effective October 2025, leveraging its -free membranes. To address water usage, Sympatex employs spun-dyeing techniques that integrate color pigments directly into the polymer melt, reducing water consumption by approximately 75% compared to traditional dyeing methods and cutting chemical use by up to 90%. These measures also help minimize pollutants and microplastic release during , promoting standards throughout the . Sympatex attained CO2 neutrality for its operations in 2017 through a combination of emission offsets via certified climate protection projects with partners like ClimatePartner, a company-wide switch to green electricity in 2019, and energy-efficient manufacturing processes that leverage bio-based and recycled plastics. The company maintains ongoing tracking with annual calculations for both corporate activities and products, aiming for a 45% reduction in greenhouse gases by 2030 and full across the by 2050. In advancing circularity, Sympatex has shifted to incorporating more than 25% bio-based raw materials in its membranes since 2021, derived from renewable sources using a mass-balance approach with partners like , which lowers the CO2 footprint by about 12% per of compared to fully fossil-based alternatives. Complementing this, the company applies toxic-free, fluorocarbon-free durable water-repellent (DWR) finishes—introduced as early as 2008—to ensure fabrics remain suitable for without introducing harmful substances. The Sustainability Impact Program, launched by Sympatex, provides targeted training and workshops for emerging designers in the outdoor industry, emphasizing eco-design principles to create long-lasting products that reduce environmental impact over their lifecycle. This initiative also supports partners by offering guidance on integrating sustainable practices, such as fiber-to-fiber strategies and circular material selection, to foster broader industry adoption of low-impact production.

Recyclability and Certifications

Sympatex membranes are composed entirely of , a monomaterial that enables full recyclability comparable to bottles, allowing for closed-loop where used laminates can be processed back into new membranes without loss of quality or performance. This design facilitates the separation and reuse of materials at the end of their lifecycle, contributing to a in functional textiles. Since its inception, Sympatex has been free of (PFAS) and (PTFE), eliminating persistent chemicals that could complicate processes and environmental impact. This PFAS-free formulation supports straightforward disassembly of products, ensuring that textiles remain viable for mechanical and reducing contamination risks in waste streams. Sympatex holds several key certifications underscoring its commitment to and safety. In 2021, it was recognized as a B Corp "Best for the World™" honoree for its integrated approach to social and environmental responsibility. The company has been a bluesign® system partner since 2008, adhering to stringent standards for eco-friendly production, chemical safety, and resource efficiency across its . Additionally, all Sympatex laminates are certified under ® Standard 100, confirming they are free from harmful substances and safe for skin contact. Looking ahead, Sympatex aims to achieve 100% recycled inputs for all processed raw materials by 2030, supported by initiatives like its program and partnerships with brands for take-back and . These efforts build on current progress, where a significant portion of laminates already incorporates recycled , advancing toward full circularity in the industry.

Applications

Apparel and Footwear

Sympatex membranes are widely integrated into outdoor apparel, providing waterproof, windproof, and breathable protection for items such as shells, winter jackets, tracksuits, gloves, pants, windbreakers, and hats. These applications leverage the membrane's lightweight construction, enabling ultralight jackets while maintaining high performance during activities like and . For instance, partnerships with like have resulted in recycled jackets that combine with durability for everyday outdoor use. In footwear, Sympatex serves as a lining material for boots, mountain shoes, and safety , enhancing moisture management and comfort in demanding conditions such as snowmobiling and . The 4-layer variant, featuring advanced moisture technology, reduces residual moisture by up to 44% compared to traditional designs, reducing sweat accumulation during prolonged activity. Collaborations, such as with Galibier for mountain boots and for , demonstrate its role in creating recyclable, high-performance shoes suitable for rugged terrains. Across both apparel and footwear, Sympatex delivers consistent performance with waterproofing exceeding 45,000 mm and breathability up to 25,000 g/ per 24 hours, ensuring reliable protection without compromising ventilation—attributes rooted in its hydrophilic mechanism for dynamic . This makes it ideal for consumer-oriented products in outdoor pursuits, where lightweight functionality and environmental compatibility are paramount.

Technical and Protective Uses

Sympatex membranes are widely utilized in protective to ensure and comfort in demanding professional environments. In and settings, they feature in safety boots certified to standards such as S3 WR SRC, providing , , and to penetration while incorporating non-metallic toecaps and anti-slip soles for enhanced durability in harsh conditions. For and automotive applications, Sympatex integrates into multi-layer suits, gloves, and boots, offering windproof 3-layer systems that maintain flexibility and against abrasion and weather extremes during high-speed travel. Beyond , Sympatex supports technical applications in accessories and specialized gear. Backpacks and tents employ Sympatex laminates for their lightweight, 100% waterproof construction combined with high breathability, making them suitable for extended outdoor expeditions where minimal weight and reliable moisture management are critical. In and fields, the L2315 variant serves as a , enabling controlled moisture delivery to delicate artifacts like photographs and parchments without direct wetting, thus preserving in controlled environments. In specialized sectors, Sympatex enhances and tactical gear for extreme operational demands. It appears in jackets and tactical shoes, such as the Austrian M65-style jacket and models with soles, delivering waterproof, breathable protection in wet, rugged terrains while meeting military-grade requirements for and . For sports equipment, partnerships like those with integrate Sympatex into durable components for high-impact activities, emphasizing its role in windproof, robust designs. The Reflexion variant further advances protective clothing by reflecting up to 75% of back to the wearer, improving regulation in cold-exposure scenarios without compromising . In 2025, collaborations such as with Galibier extended Sympatex to advanced boots for protective use in rugged, weather-exposed pursuits.

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