This review intends to highlight the potential of the membrane science in developed clothing and protective textiles. In particular, the purpose is to provide an overview of the membrane use in wearable fabrics as well as indoor and outdoor protection. Membrane basics and related applications in the field of textiles are discussed by covering papers and patents focused on membrane materials and sustainable strategies for the creation of a large variety of innovative textile solutions. Breathing membranes along with barrier films are examined, discussing related advantages and limitations. A special section is dedicated to the development of ultra-smart textiles, which use adaptable membranes and actuators based on electro-active materials, smart gels, and shape memory polymers along with sensing compounds for self-cleaning, release and capture processes. Future directions of membrane science in sustainable marketplaces, including societal challenges, industrial competitiveness and excellence in science, are also examined. (C) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved