CimAlp, the Drôme-based SME, has developed the AERODRY — a patented system exclusive to the outdoor brand that guarantees maximum breathability regardless of weather conditions or activity intensity. This one-of-a-kind innovation is the result of several years of research.
How do you guarantee the maximum breathability of a membrane while effectively protecting the outdoor user from the elements? That was the question Lionel Marsanne, CEO of CimAlp, asked himself in 2016. After patenting the Ultrashell® CimAlp high-performance membrane — waterproof to 20,000 Schmerbers and breathable to 80,000 MVP — the Leading the rope, CimAlp takes on a new challenge: developing a technology capable of ventilating a garment more effectively without compromising waterproofing.
The question of design remained: what shape to give this innovative system? CimAlp's CEO initially drew inspiration from the Sydney Opera House — an iconic symbol of Australia, instantly recognisable by its white sails or shells, which had disrupted the architectural codes of the 1950s. In the end, without borrowing the avant-garde look of the opera house that had captivated so many at the time, the AERODRY adopted a 3D shape. This flexible pad positioned on the upper sleeves of the jacket facilitates moisture evacuation while protecting against external humidity. THE AERODRY: guaranteed optimal membrane breathability, twice that of anything else on the market.
How do you guarantee the maximum breathability of a membrane while effectively protecting the outdoor user from the elements? That was the question Lionel Marsanne, CEO of CimAlp, asked himself in 2016. After patenting the Ultrashell® CimAlp high-performance membrane — waterproof to 20,000 Schmerbers and breathable to 80,000 MVP — the Leading the rope, CimAlp takes on a new challenge: developing a technology capable of ventilating a garment more effectively without compromising waterproofing.
Years of R&D research
In collaboration with ENVEHO, a Scientific and Technical Research organisation, CimAlp's R&D team carried out several tests until reaching the final conclusion: the perfect balance between breathability and waterproofing relies on a 3 cm diameter opening in the membrane. THE AERODRY IS BORN! A patent-pending optimal aeration system delivering permanent active ventilation unlike a zip. "It works with the body's movements. For example, when arms move during hiking or trail running, pressure and depression zones are created, like squeezing a balloon, explains Lionel Marsanne. On current garments, air escapes at the neck, the wrists or through zips often placed under the arms — and only when they are open. With the Aerodry, air circulation is continuous and the system can be positioned in more relevant locations. »The story behind the AERODRY
The question of design remained: what shape to give this innovative system? CimAlp's CEO initially drew inspiration from the Sydney Opera House — an iconic symbol of Australia, instantly recognisable by its white sails or shells, which had disrupted the architectural codes of the 1950s. In the end, without borrowing the avant-garde look of the opera house that had captivated so many at the time, the AERODRY adopted a 3D shape. This flexible pad positioned on the upper sleeves of the jacket facilitates moisture evacuation while protecting against external humidity. THE AERODRY: guaranteed optimal membrane breathability, twice that of anything else on the market.
A patented system accessible on the market
This innovative system is found on the Ultrashell® waterproof and ultra-breathable jacket COSMIQUES. This patented system could be applied to all membranes on the market. Its key strengths:- Efficiency
- Instant breathability
- Responsiveness
- Lightness
