Selecting Sportswear Fabric

Selecting Sportswear Fabric

Sportswear fabric is a special type of textile that’s made to withstand intense physical activity. These fabrics often include stretch materials like spandex and elastane, which are designed to support the wearer without restricting movement or causing uncomfortable chafing. Additionally, many sportswear fabrics are breathable, moisture-wicking and anti-odor to keep the wearer comfortable and dry during active pursuits.

When choosing the best fabric for sportswear, consider the demands of your target market and the sport you want to promote. Athletic wear for running or walking, for example, must be lightweight and breathable to prevent overheating, while sportswear fabric for biking, tennis, football, or swimming may be thicker and warm enough to provide insulation. Additionally, some physically dangerous sports might require specific protective clothing, such as the keikogi worn in karate.

The most common sportswear fabric is polyester because it’s affordable, durable, and versatile, and it can be combined with other fabrics to make more adaptable garments. For instance, polyester can be blended with cotton to create a soft, breathable fabric that’s perfect for summer sportswear. It can also be used in combination with spandex or elastane to produce highly-flexible and stretchy garments that are ideal for gym pants, leggings, or yoga apparel.

Other popular sportswear fabrics for athleisure and outdoor activities include cotton, nylon, wool, and lycra. Cotton fibers are soft, absorbent, and moisture-wicking, making them a good choice for activewear, but they might not offer the same amount of breathability as synthetic options. Nylon, on the other hand, is durable and quick-drying, but it can get sticky in humid environments and might not wick sweat as well as cotton fibers.

While comfort is the most important factor when selecting a sportswear fabric, it’s also worth considering aesthetics when designing your next collection. Adding details like mesh panels, laser-cut detailing, sleek zippers, ergonomic seams, and attractive prints to your fabrics can give them an extra level of sophistication and appeal that will entice your customers to reach for their workout gear again and again.

Whether you’re creating your first line of sportswear or expanding your current collection, our team can help you choose the best fabric for your brand. Contact us today to get started!

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