Finding the right fabric for your sportswear can be tricky. You want something breathable, durable, and looks good. Polyester jersey is a popular choice for sportswear because it meets all of these requirements.
But some people are wondering: is polyester jersey breathable? The answer is not breathable at all unless it is treated to be moisture-wicking.
This blog post will explore the answer to that question and give tips on choosing the right fabric for your needs.
About Polyester Jersey
It is a synthetic fabric made from polyester fibers. It’s light and not the softest type of fabric, but it has a smooth texture.
This jersey material is a popular choice for those brands involved in the clothing line of sportswear and gym wear for several reasons:
- Extremely light
- Smooth
- Durable
- Stretchy
- Easy movement for the wearer
- Moisture-resistant
- Anti-wrinkles.
Is Polyester Jersey Breathable?
No. it is not breathable at all. It’s moisture-resistant, meaning it won’t let moisture in or out.
This can be great for sports like running, where sweat might quickly soak through the fabric and make you feel uncomfortable. But it also means that the material won’t allow air to circulate and cool the skin.
Synthetic Fiber
Polyester is a non-breathable, synthetic fiber that repels water and isn’t eco-friendly.
The fibers are solid plastic; air can’t flow through solid plastic. The fibers are woven tightly together, trapping heat and sweat.
Moisture-wicking Treatment
It can be breathable if manufactured correctly. It can be treated to be moisture-wicking, which is often the case for breathable bras and activewear.
Moisture-wicking and breathable fabrics are perfect for athletes, and modern textile arts have developed special methods for weaving the fabric into these kinds of materials.
What is Moisture-wicking?
Moisture-wicking fabric draws moisture away from the skin and keeps you dry during exercise. This fabric is often used in athletic wear but can also be found in everyday clothing like t-shirts and underwear.
The material’s ability to draw sweat away from the body helps regulate body temperature and prevent irritation and discomfort during physical activity.
Breathable Fabrics for Sportwear
Options
The best options for breathable sportswear include:
- Cotton: Natural, lightweight, and breathable
- Bamboo: Sustainable, soft, and breathable
- Merino wool: Natural, odor-resistant, and breathable
- Linen: Lightweight, durable, and breathable
These natural fibers allow air to circulate and keep the body cool during physical activity.
They are also more eco-friendly than synthetic materials like polyester.
Tips for Choosing Sportswear
Consider the activity you’ll be doing and the climate you’ll be in.
If you’re going for a run on a hot day, breathable fabrics are a must. But breathability may not be as important if you play a less intense sport in cooler weather.
Look for fabrics that are both moisture-wicking and breathable.
Moisture-wicking fabrics draw sweat away from the skin, keeping you dry during exercise. Breathable materials allow air to circulate and keep the body cool.
Choose natural fibers over synthetics like polyester.
Natural fibers like cotton and wool are more eco-friendly and have better breathability.
FAQs
Is polyester too hot for summer?
It is not too hot for summer, but it may be too hot for you. Some people are more sensitive to heat than others and may find it too warm for summer weather.
You can always try a blend or a lower thread count to ensure the fabric is less dense and lighter in weight.
Is polyester good for sweating?
It is good for sweating because it is a plastic, synthetic fabric. It does not absorb moisture, which makes it good for sweating. It is also a durable fabric, meaning it will last longer when you sweat.
Is polyester hotter than cotton?
It is hotter than cotton because it doesn’t breathe as well.
Cotton absorbs moisture and perspiration, which helps to evaporate and cool the body.
It does not absorb moisture, so it retains heat and makes you feel warmer.
