Generally, the fabric is made from natural fibers (like cotton, wool, or silk) and synthetic materials. Synthetic fabrics are made from chemicals, such as polyester and nylon.
Both types of fibers have their benefits and drawbacks, so it is essential to consider both before purchasing. This way, you can make the best decision for your health and the environment.
Better Breathability
When it comes to athletic wear fabric, both natural and synthetic fabrics can be great options. The fabric type you choose depends on the purpose of the item and your personal preference.
If you’re doing high-intensity exercise, like jiu jitsu or running, breathable fabrics can help you stay comfortable and temperature controlled by allowing your sweat to evaporate quickly. Lightweight, breathable fabrics also help prevent moisture from building up and feeling sticky after a workout.
For this reason, fabrics made of cotton or other naturally breathable fibers are often the best choice. However, there are a few essential considerations before choosing any natural fabric for your athletic wear.
On the other hand, synthetic fabrics are artificial materials made by a chemical process to create polymers that can be spun and used as fibers. They have many benefits over natural fabrics, such as durability and convenience. They also tend to be less expensive and can be made to resist stains, water, and other common elements.
Better Moisture-Wicking
Breathable fabrics are essential for athletes because they allow air to flow easily in and out of their clothing, keeping them cool and comfortable. Additionally, they wick away sweat and help dry your skin after a workout.
Polyester is the workhorse of fitness fabrics, and it’s also one of the cheapest (you can find ready-to-wear activewear for less than $10 at thrift stores). This synthetic fiber is an excellent choice to keep your clothes looking and feeling new for as long as possible.
Synthetic fibers are easier to care for and don’t shrink or bleed when washed. They are also not as prone to pilling as natural fibers.
Another popular synthetic fabric in activewear is spandex, a polyurethane used to make sports bras, leggings and other apparel. Spandex is breathable and stretchy, which makes it perfect for activewear.
Bamboo is also an excellent choice for activewear because it’s a naturally breathable fabric that absorbs and evaporates moisture to prevent sweating. It’s usually blended with other fabrics for softness and breathability, but it can be made as a standalone material.
Better Durability
The material you choose for your athletic wear is a critical factor in how well your garments last. Whether you’re going for a long-term yoga class or a high-intensity session with your partner, you want your gear to withstand the stresses of wearing it at any time.
For a comfortable feel, natural fabrics are usually the best choice. They are breathable, lightweight and easy to care for.
Another popular option is polyester (polyethylene terephthalate, or PET), a synthetic fiber derived from coal and petroleum. It’s durable, supple, and stretchy, perfect for various activewear styles, from tracksuits to wind runners.
However, despite its benefits, some downsides to choosing synthetic fibers over natural alternatives exist. These include a lack of UV resistance, which can bleach your clothing over time. Plus, a majority of synthetic materials are not recyclable. This makes them more harmful to the environment than their natural counterparts.
Better Stain Resistance
Natural fibers, such as cotton, wool and silk, come from plants, animals or minerals cultivated and processed to produce fabrics. Synthetic fibers, on the other hand, are artificial and often derived from petrochemicals.
Synthetic fibers are engineered to have specific performance properties, such as durability, stretch, wrinkle resistance, moisture wicking, water and wind resistance and stain resistance. This allows them to be used in broader applications than natural fibers, such as sportswear and outdoor gear.
An excellent synthetic fabric is also likely cheaper than a comparable natural fiber. These materials are typically produced in large volumes, using cheap raw materials and making them a viable option for most consumers.
Stain-resistant fabric is a critical consideration for those who are active outdoors, where a little dirt and grime can add up over a day or two. A good quality performance fabric will resist stains so you can focus on the bigger picture — your workout.
Better Comfort
When it comes to comfort, natural fibers are a superior option. They breathe better and feel softer to the touch than synthetic fabrics.
Cotton: This natural fabric is breathable, lightweight, and airy. It is often blended with synthetic fibers in activewear but can also be worn independently.
Spandex: Stretchy, pliable, and comfortable, spandex is a popular choice for athletic wear because it can stretch five to eight times its standard size. It is also used in everyday clothing and sportswear, including organic bras, yoga pants, skinny jeans, and maternity outfits.
Nylon: Durable, breathable, and quick-drying, nylon is a fantastic choice for workout apparel with a lot of wear and tear. However, it has no UV resistance, meaning harsh sunlight may bleach the material over time.
The best fabric for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. For most, a comfortable wardrobe with suitable materials is a wise investment. But it’s also important to remember that there are many different types of fabrics, so choosing the right ones can be confusing.
