Sneakers with a membrane are the subject of various discussions and disputes. To unequivocally say what the strengths of the membrane material, you need to understand its structure. Also, first you need to decide what is in the first place - dryness or ventilation.
On a hot summer day, it is better to get along with regular sneakers, since air circulation through the membrane is very difficult.
The owner of sneakers with a membrane will not be afraid of puddles, running through the snow, low temperatures and blowing with a cold wind. Even if the run continues for a long time, the legs still remain fairly dry. Most sports shoes manufacturers prefer to use Gore-Tex.
Gore-tex
Despite the fact that there is an opportunity to use more modern developments or to develop your own membrane, Gore-Tex enjoys great confidence and demand.
The membrane material is represented by a thin synthetic polytetrafluoroethylene film, which contains up to one and a half billion holes on one square centimeter.. The main thing is that the membrane covers the entire area of the sneaker.
Depending on the time of year, manufacturers offer two types of membrane material:
- Gore-Tex Extended comfort - relevant for the warm season.
- Gore-Tex Perfomance comfort - a denser material that is designed for cold weather.
Exceptional quality, protection from wind, moisture and cold - exactly what you need for comfort in difficult environmental conditions. Do not leave without attention races over rough terrain. The membrane will protect against contact with fine dirt and sand, which can cause significant discomfort when running over long distances.
Reviews and recommendations
Reviews are mostly positive, the range of application of specific models is individual for each person. Buyers note good quality and durability, comfortable condition of the feet in the snow and rain, windy weather. Properly chosen for the temperature model will help avoid overheating and excessive sweating.
The temperature range of use is marked down to minus 30. At too warm a season, there is no need for membrane running shoes: their ventilation rate is lower than that of ordinary ones, which can cause discomfort. Sneakers with or without a membrane are used for different tasks. In the mountains, on long races, marches, rogainers, users prefer Gore-Tex. Such sneakers are more comfortable and easier than trekking boots.
Care
It would be appropriate to highlight the moment of care for such shoes. On the one hand, the care is almost the same as for ordinary shoes, but you need to take into account the presence of a membrane. To maintain its full-fledged performance, running shoes must be re-treated with water-repellent agents.
Since the membrane does not allow water to pass through from the outside, moisture will gradually accumulate inside the shoe, so it is extremely important to update the DWR impregnation. Sneakers with a membrane dry at room temperature, but twice as long as normal.
When drying can not use the battery and electrical appliances - there is a risk of detachment of the membrane layer from the shoe. The process will go faster if you unlace the shoes and pull out the insoles.
