The trick is to use layering. A quality wicking baselayer will shift moisture away from your skin. Yes, if you really exert yourself you're going to sweat, no-one is claiming the contrary. However, if you mitigate this with a fabric next to your skin which is designed to transport moisture outwards, then it's far better than say a cotton undershirt that will simply trap moisture and create a wet layer.
The trouble with membrane systems like Sympatex, Goretex, Ventile et al is that they have a finite working life. The membrane will eventually break down and fail, especially if it isn't treated correctly. The quality of the membrane and construction of the jacket may mitigate that, extending its life, but it will not prevent the finite limit of the coat's effectiveness. Nikwaz Analogy fabric has no membrane. It depends on its construction to shift water outwards. Washing with the correct soap at the correct temperature and regularly treating with DWP means that the fabric remains waterproof. Its breathability is partly down to ventilation. The Halcon has a storm flap under the zip, which can be poppered and the zip put to halfway. The rain can't get in, but hot moist air can get out. It also has six inch zips on the upper arms to vent, which really make a difference.
I've got a Paramo smock that I bought second hand about 8 years ago. It's still waterproof.
