When you're active, your body produces sweat. If this moisture can't escape, you'll feel clammy and uncomfortable, even in cold weather. Breathable fabrics allow water vapor to pass through, keeping you dry and comfortable.
Outdoor wear benefits from a range of fabrics, each offering different levels of breathability. At the top end, certain high-performance waterproof and breathable fabrics and similar waterproof/breathable fabrics are engineered for maximum weather protection while efficiently transferring moisture. Softshell fabrics provide a strong balance of water and wind resistance with excellent breathability, making them ideal for active pursuits. Merino wool stands out for its natural breathability and temperature-regulating properties. Fleece offers warmth and moderate breathability, perfect for mid-layers. Finally, polyester and nylon's breathability varies significantly depending on their weave and any applied treatments, requiring careful consideration based on intended use.
To quantify breathability, manufacturers use specialized tests. Air Permeability Tests measure how easily air flows through a fabric, indicating its ability to allow air circulation. Equipment used includes air permeability testers that measure air pressure and flow. Water Vapor Transmission Tests (WVTR) determine how much moisture vapor can pass through a fabric over time, crucial for evaluating sweat evaporation. WVTR testers use climate chambers and sensors to measure humidity changes.
Labthink TQD-G1A Air Permeability Tester is applicable to the test of air permeability and air resistance of automotive interior decoration materials, such as polyurethane foam, PVC, leather, textiles, nonwovens etc. In addition, it can also be used to test the permeability of separation membrane, sponge, carpet, non-woven fabric, paper and leather. Through measurement, the performance control of materials is realized to meet the needs of practical application of products.
Labthink C360H Water Vapor Transmission Rate Test System is designed and manufactured based on the gravimetric determination method and conforms to the requirements of ASTM E96. This instrument can be used to measure the water vapor transmission rate of barrier materials with high, medium and lower moisture barrier properties with a wide testing range and high testing efficiency. The instrument features Labthink’s patented test chamber design with multiple test dishes. C360H is equipped with precision made test dishes, highly accurate balance, embedded professional software which supports automatic controlling of temperature, humidity and flow rate precisely and guarantees the testing sensitivity and repeatability of the test results. C360H is applicable to determination of water vapor permeability of plastic films, sheeting, paper, packages and other packaging materials in food, pharmaceutical, medical apparatus, building materials and consumer goods, etc.
These tests ensure that outdoor clothing performs as expected, keeping you comfortable in challenging conditions. Investing in gear with proven breathability means investing in a more enjoyable outdoor experience.
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