Tips and Tricks for Choosing the Right Fabric for Your Athletic Wear
A suitable fabric can make a big difference in your performance, comfort, and fit. But how do you choose? There are a lot of different fabrics to choose from, each with their characteristics. This can be confusing and overwhelming.
Breathable
When you roam around and shop fabrics idea for athletic wear, it’s important to understand how the material can help you during your workout or sport. The right fabric can make all the difference to your performance, results, and comfort! Breathable fabrics allow air to flow freely through micro gaps, preventing you from overheating and helping your sweat dry out more quickly. This is especially helpful for reducing bacteria growth on your clothes.
Cotton is popular for many different clothing types due to its easy care and breathability. However, it’s not a great choice for activewear as it is hydrophilic (meaning it holds a lot of water) and takes a long time to dry out.
Polyester is another standard fabric used for sportswear as it wicks moisture away from your body, which keeps you cool and dry. It is also very soft, lightweight, and wrinkle-free.
Spandex is another fabric commonly used in workout apparel because it is stretchy and can withstand the rigors of strenuous activity. It is also very breathable and absorbs moisture well, but it can be washed more than other types of fabrics.
Moisture-wicking
When you work out, your body produces a lot of sweat. Eventually, this moisture can be absorbed by your fabric and become heavy and uncomfortable. The good news is that fabrics are specifically designed to wick away this liquid and keep you dry and comfortable. These fabrics are made from synthetic or natural fibers and have tiny spaces between them that allow moisture to move through them.
They also have antimicrobial finishes that keep bacteria at bay and help prevent body odors from forming. This is especially important if you spend a long time in the gym and don’t want to smell bad afterward.
Often found in athletic wear, workout wear, and business polo shirts, these performance fabrics are woven into a pattern that forces moisture through gaps and up to the fabric’s surface. Then it evaporates faster.
Polyester is the most common moisture-wicking material and is an effective choice for light athletic wear. It’s also easy to care for, and it typically dries faster than other types of athletic fabrics.
Durable
The right fabric for your athletic wear should be able to resist the elements, stretch to accommodate physical contact, and withstand repeated washing. The type of activity that you do will determine the fabric that’s best for you, but here are some tips and tricks to help you find the perfect fit: Breathable fabrics allow your skin to breathe and wick away sweat to keep you comfortable during exercises. They also help cool you down and prevent overheating. Polyester is a commonly used fabric in sportswear because it’s durable, wrinkle-resistant, breathable, and moisture-wicking. It’s also easy to clean and won’t pill or ball up over time.
Nylon is another popular choice because it’s lightweight and dries quickly. However, it can be sticky when sweating and sometimes hold onto odors.
A good alternative to polyester is bamboo, a natural fabric often blended with other fabrics for softness and breathability. It’s eco-friendly, too, so it’s a great option for environmentally-conscious people. It can be found in a wide variety of colors and can be customized with embroidery or prints.
Comfortable
When it comes to workout gear, you want to get the most out of your investment. This means making the right choice regarding the fabric used to make your activewear. Choosing the wrong fabric can make all the difference to your performance and comfort during your exercise session. Several factors are to consider, including the materials used to construct your clothing and how it wicks moisture. For instance, cotton is a good choice for many other purposes but is not ideal for workout wear. Wet cotton will become clammy and uncomfortable, so you should avoid wearing it for long or intense workouts.
On the other hand, microfiber is a highly touted fabric that wicks sweat to keep you cool and dry during your exercise routine. This synthetic fabric has other perks, too, such as being lightweight and odor-resistant. The best part is that it can be washed and dried in the washing machine without much fuss. It’s also one of the more comfortable fabrics you can find.
Affordable
Choosing the right fabric for your athletic wear is essential to ensuring that your workouts are comfortable and effective. Many fabrics are designed to wick away moisture, so you can remain dry throughout your entire workout. Some fabrics, like polyester, are incredibly durable and wrinkle-resistant. If you need help determining which fabric is right for your brand, talk to reputable fabric specialists to help with your selection. They can also recommend the right weights and stretch percentages for your needs.