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Breathable waterproof membrane

Breathable waterproof membrane reference article on thruhikingwiki.com.

Overview

A breathable waterproof membrane is a thin layer used in fabrics that is designed to resist liquid water penetration from the outside while allowing some water vapor to pass from the inside.

Key points

  • Used in jackets, pants, footwear, and other gear marketed as both water-resistant and vapor-permeable.
  • Performance depends on construction, fabric layers, temperature, humidity, and usage conditions.
  • The term describes a material technology category rather than any specific brand or model.

Details

Outdoor clothing and gear often use laminated or coated materials that include a breathable waterproof membrane. These membranes are engineered so that liquid water from rain and snow is blocked at the outer surface, while some internally generated moisture vapor can move outward under certain conditions. Real-world performance depends on factors such as temperature gradients, humidity, layering choices, and garment design. Over time, surface treatments and fabric conditions can also influence how dry or clammy an item feels. The phrase "breathable waterproof membrane" captures the intended function without evaluating individual technologies or products.

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Illustrative hiking footage

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