System Dual Protection 

Its Basic Physics....... System Dual Protection ® is a revolutionary material concept as it has the ability to remove condensation from inside the garment keeping the wearer dry from outside and in.

The breathabilty of all waterproof fabrics is impaired when subjected to rain, and Condensation forms leaving the wearer wet and uncomfortable. Condensation forms at temperatures of 10 ° C with no rain and even more rapidly in wet conditions, due to 'cold bridging'. This area has been overlooked by the industry and is a factor, which is extremely important to wearer comfort. 'Cold bridging' is similar to the occurrence of condensation on the outside of a car windscreen on a cold morning. Ventilation is needed to clear the screen.

Experience the Difference....

Keela International introduces the next generation of performance fabrics.

System Dual Protection is not only waterproof, windproof and breathable, but also has the ability to transport sweat and moisture away from the wearer even during heavy rain periods.

The Problem.......

After one hour in wet and cold conditions all breathable, waterproof fabrics stop transmitting moisture altogether. (Research by University of Leeds )

Test Methods.......

The test methods that exist for measuring moisture vapour transmission (ISO11092) are conducted under DRY conditions with an outer and inner temperature of 35°C and 50% humidity which is not realistic to the environment in which waterproof garments are worn. In fact it is more similar to the Sahara desert!

Keela test all garments using a comparative machine that can accurately measure how a jacket will perform under realistic weather conditions. and that includes rain!

How does System Dual Protection work?....

Weather conditions effect the breathability of garments. During periods of heavy rain when the outside temperature is low (around 0°C and +10°C) breathable waterproof garments experience the "occurrence of Dew Point" (Cold bridging). In these conditions a rapid build up of vapour condensation will result due to warm air on the inner side of the jacket and cold air hitting the outer side of the jacket. A warm body at 37°C inside a jacket with cold saturated air outside, will struggle to cope with the moisture build up and cannot be force ventilated.

Most breathable waterproof garments are adequate if you are using them for periods of less than one hour and during low activity. Tests show that breathable waterproof garments costing £60-70 and garments costing considerably more £120+ will have almost the same wearer comfort levels.

System Dual Protection uses 2 hydrophilic membranes, which is best compared with the principal of double glazing. An air gap in between the two layers prevents warm air coming into contact with cold air thus preventing condensation.

The outer of the system uses a waterproof, breathable fabric with a hydrophilic laminate. The inner layer is a revolutionary high wicking liner (which acts similar to a sponge in absorbing the moisture) laminated onto a hydrophilic film. Once the inner moisture is absorbed through the lining, it cannot wick back through to the liner as the waterproof laminate will not allow it. The moisture is then passed through the air gap and escapes through the outer at its own rate.

System Dual Protection outer and inner layers are both waterproof, making the protection twice as good. If the outer layer is torn or damaged the garment will still perform thanks to the inner layer.

Advantages of System Dual Protection over conventional waterproof breathable systems...

• The ability to move moisture in both liquid and vapour at rapid transportation rates creates a more comfortable wearer environment.
• Environmental conditions do not effect the performance of System Dual Protection.
• Two membranes provide extra durability, enabling the garment to continue working even if the outer is torn or damaged.
• The air gap provides a thermal barrier protecting against heat loss. Requires less layering than conventional systems.
• System Dual Protection aids the regulation of body temperature and minimises shivering during periods of non activity.