What is Sympatex®?

Ratgeber Technology | Sympatex®

Sympatex® is a waterproof, breathable and windproof membrane used in certain Joya shoe models. According to the manufacturer, the Sympatex membrane does not work with pores, but with hydrophilic molecular chains that transport water vapour to the outside while keeping water out.

At Joya, Sympatex® is found particularly in selected outdoor and weather-suitable models.

Does this affect you?

  • You are looking for weather-suitable shoes
  • You are interested in Sympatex®
  • You walk in rain or changeable weather
  • You are looking for shoes for outdoor activities and travel
  • You want to know what breathable and waterproof mean for shoes
  • You are comparing materials for outdoor shoes

Possible causes

  • Rain
  • Wet terrain
  • Changeable weather
  • Outdoor activities
  • Cold and wind
  • Long periods outdoors

What role does the shoe play?

Sympatex® is a membrane technology for functional products such as shoes and clothing. The manufacturer describes it as waterproof, breathable, windproof and durable.

The most important properties

  • Waterproof – according to the manufacturer, it prevents water from entering from the outside.
  • Breathable – transports water vapour to the outside.
  • Windproof – protects against wind penetration.
  • Durable – the pore-free construction is intended to maintain its function over the long term.

In brief

Sympatex® is a membrane technology.

According to the manufacturer, the membrane is waterproof, breathable and windproof.

Sympatex works with hydrophilic molecular chains instead of pores.

Joya uses Sympatex® in selected models.

Overall performance depends on the shoe’s complete construction.

The specific model should be checked before purchase.

Buying guide

If you need Sympatex® for outdoor activities or travel, look at the complete model and not just the membrane.

Anprobe-Tipp Warum
Check the model description Sympatex® must be specified for the particular model
Define the intended use City, travel or outdoor activities
Consider the tread The surface affects grip
Check the materials The upper material and membrane work together
Follow the care instructions Help maintain function and material over the long term

Recommended Joya models

1 3
View all

Joya uses Sympatex® in selected models. Current Joya product pages mention Sympatex membranes, for example in Veloce STX and Altai STX.

Sympatex® - Frequently asked questions

What is Sympatex®?
Sympatex® is a functional membrane that, according to the manufacturer, is waterproof, breathable and windproof.
Is Sympatex® waterproof?
The Sympatex membrane is described as waterproof by the manufacturer.
Is Sympatex® breathable?
Yes. According to the manufacturer, water vapour is transported to the outside via hydrophilic molecular chains.
Is Sympatex® an alternative to Gore-Tex?
Sympatex is an independent membrane technology. A general quality comparison without a defined testing standard is not meaningful.
Which Joya shoes have Sympatex®?
Sympatex® is used in selected Joya models; the respective product description is decisive.
Are Sympatex shoes suitable for rain?
The membrane is designed to provide weather protection. Suitability in a specific case depends on the shoe’s overall construction.
Are Sympatex shoes breathable?
According to the manufacturer, the membrane is breathable; overall breathability also depends on the material and construction.
Can I wear Sympatex shoes in summer?
This depends on the model, the weather and your personal perception of warmth.
How do I care for Sympatex shoes?
Follow the care instructions for the specific Joya model and avoid unsuitable cleaning methods.
Are Sympatex shoes suitable for travel?
Many weather-suitable models are suitable for travel; choose according to the climate and activities.
Can Sympatex be damaged?
The membrane is part of a laminate and should be treated according to the care instructions.

Related Topics

Sources

  1. Joya – Sole Technology
  2. Joya – FOREVERFOAM®
  3. Joya – Which sole is right for me?
  4. Joya – About us
  5. Sympatex – Membrane