Is Polyester Breathable? How Breathable Is It?

Polyester is a synthetic fabric that is often worn by outdoor enthusiasts as it is a lightweight and functional fabric – but how does it fare when it comes to breathability? Can it keep you dry on a sweaty day?

Well, some polyester fabrics can! Whereas polyester is not as breathable as natural fabrics such as silk, linen, and wool, some polyester fabrics are designed to be more breathable than others. In particular, fabrics that are made with fleece or microfiber are often more breathable than those made with traditional polyester. Additionally, some polyester fabrics are blended with natural fibers such as wool to increase their breathability.

Polyester fabrics are known for their durability, wrinkle-resistance, and easy care properties.

While polyester is often used in outdoor clothing because of its quick-drying capabilities, some hikers avoid the fabric because it is not as breathable as natural fibers like wool or cotton.

However, newer generations of polyester fabrics have been developed that are more breathable and comfortable to wear while hiking or engaging in other outdoor activities.

But what does breathability actually mean, and exactly how breathable is polyester?

What Makes Polyester and Other Fabrics Breathable?

When you’re out on a hike, the last thing you want to worry about is whether or not your clothes are going to make you sweat. But if you’re wearing the wrong fabric, that’s exactly what will happen.

So, what makes a fabric breathable?

A lot of factors contribute to making material breathable. These include the weave structure, the weight of the material, and the ability to absorb liquid.

When it comes to breathability, it is important to consider the fabric’s weave or knit.

The weave structure is important because it determines how much air can flow through the fabric. A tighter weave will trap more heat and sweat, while a looser weave will allow air to circulate more freely.

The weight of the fabric also matters. Heavier fabrics like denim or wool will trap more heat than lighter fabrics like cotton or linen.

Finally, the ability to absorb liquid is important because sweat can quickly make a fabric feel damp and uncomfortable.

Synthetic fabrics like polyester or nylon are less absorbent than natural fabrics like wool, so they can often feel clammy against the skin.

Cotton is also often heralded as a breathable fabric, but it only works when it is dry! Also, in some cases, polyester can be just as breathable – if not more so!

This is because polyester is a synthetic fabric that can be carefully structured to provide moisture-wicking and great airflow.

However, if it is not structured properly, it can cling to your skin in hot weather.

How is breathability measured?

Breathability is typically measured by several different methods in the textile industry. Some of the most common methods include:

• Moisture vapor transmission rate (MVTR): This measures the amount of moisture vapor that can pass through a fabric over a specific period of time. The higher the MVTR, the more breathable the fabric is.
• Water vapor permeability (WVP): This measures the amount of water vapor that can pass through a fabric. Like MVTR, the higher the WVP, the more breathable the fabric is.
• Air permeability: This measures the amount of air that can pass through a fabric. The higher the air permeability, the more breathable the fabric is.
• Thermal resistance: This measures the fabric’s ability to remove heat and moisture away from the skin. The lower the thermal resistance, the more breathable the fabric is.

These are some of the most common methods to measure breathability in textile industry.

The Different Kinds of Polyester Fabrics and Their Breathability

There are many different types of polyester fabrics available on the market, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. The most popular type of polyester is probably microfiber, which is known for being lightweight and breathable.

Other types of polyester include recycled polyester, which is made from post-consumer waste; spandex polyester blends, which offer stretchability; and textured polyesters, which have a raised surface that can add interest to garments.

Here are some examples of breathability values for the different methods of measuring breathability for some of the different polyester fabrics:

• Moisture vapor transmission rate (MVTR): A traditional polyester fabric might have an MVTR of around 1,000 to 2,000 grams per square meter per 24 hours. Meanwhile, a microfiber or mesh polyester fabric might have an MVTR of around 5,000 to 10,000 grams per square meter per 24 hours.
• Water vapor permeability (WVP): A traditional polyester fabric might have a WVP of around 5 to 10 grams per square meter per 24 hours, while a microfiber or mesh polyester fabric might have a WVP of around 20 to 30 grams per square meter per 24 hours.
• Air permeability: A traditional polyester fabric might have an air permeability of around 10 to 20 cubic feet per square foot per minute, while a microfiber or mesh polyester fabric might have an air permeability of around 25 to 50 cubic feet per square foot per minute.
• Thermal resistance: A traditional polyester fabric might have a thermal resistance of around 1.5 to 2.5 clo, while a microfiber or mesh polyester fabric might have a thermal resistance of around 1.0 to 1.5 clo.

It’s worth noting that the above values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific fabric, the manufacturing process, and other factors such as surface treatments.

And also, these values are for comparison purposes only and not for actual use, since it can vary from lab to lab.

Here is a full table with different relevant polyester fabrics and their breathability measurements measured in the four different ways:

Fabric	Moisture vapor transmission rate (MVTR) (Higher is better)	Water vapor permeability (WVP) (Higher is better)	Air permeability (Higher is better)	Thermal resistance (Lower is better)
Traditional Polyester	1,000 to 2,000 g/m²/24h	5 to 10 g/m²/24h	10 to 20 ft³/ft²/min	1.5 to 2.5 clo
Microfiber/Mesh Polyester	5,000 to 10,000 g/m²/24h	20 to 30 g/m²/24h	25 to 50 ft³/ft²/min	1.0 to 1.5 clo
Polyester Fleece	2,500 to 4,000 g/m²/24h	15 to 25 g/m²/24h	15 to 30 ft³/ft²/min	1.2 to 1.8 clo
Oxford Polyester	1,500 to 2,500 g/m²/24h	10 to 15 g/m²/24h	10 to 20 ft³/ft²/min	1.3 to 2.0 clo
210T Polyester	2,500 to 4,000 g/m²/24h	15 to 25 g/m²/24h	15 to 30 ft³/ft²/min	1.2 to 1.8 clo
450D Polyester	1,000 to 1,100 g/m²/24h	5 to 8 g/m²/24h	10 to 15 ft³/ft²/min	1.5 to 2.5 clo
600D Polyester	800 to 1,000 g/m²/24h	4 to 6 g/m²/24h	4 to 10 ft³/ft²/min	2 to 3.5 clo

As you can see, the breathability values for fleece and 210T polyester are generally higher than those of traditional polyester, oxford polyester and 450D and 600D polyester.

The breathability for 450D and 600D polyester is lower compared to fleece and 210T polyester, which does make sense as these thicker polyester fabrics are mostly used in backpacks where less breathability (and more water resistance and durability) is needed!

Is 100% Polyester Breathable Fabric?

When the weather is warm, the last thing you want to be is hot and sticky. And if you’re wearing polyester, that’s exactly what can happen.

Polyester is a plastic fiber, so it doesn’t allow your skin to breathe. This can make for some uncomfortable moments, especially if you’re working up a sweat.

So, what’s the verdict? Is 100% polyester breathable fabric?

The answer is: Yes! But polyester is many things, and some are more breathable than others.

Some polyester fabrics are more breathable than others, depending on how they’re manufactured. If you’re looking for a polyester fabric that will keep you cool and dry, it’s best to do some research before you buy.

In the meantime, here are a few tips for staying cool in polyester:

• Wear loose-fitting clothing. Tight clothing will trap heat and make you sweat more.
• Choose light colors. Dark colors absorb heat, so light colors will help keep you cool.
• Avoid synthetic fibers. Stick to natural fibers like cotton, which are more breathable.

With a little bit of effort, you can find a polyester fabric that’s breathable and comfortable to wear. So don’t let the heat stop you from enjoying the outdoors this summer!

How Does Polyester Breathability Work?

When you’re out on a hike, the last thing you want is to be weighed down by sweat. That’s where polyester comes in – this man-made fabric is designed to wick moisture away from your body, keeping you cool and comfortable.

But how does breathable polyester work?

A fabric is considered breathable if it allows air and moisture to pass through it easily, keeping the wearer cool and comfortable.

One important factor that determines breathability is the material’s interaction with water. Materials that are hydrophilic (water-loving) will absorb moisture and wick it away from the skin, while hydrophobic materials (water-repelling) will repel moisture and trap it on the surface.

Polyester is a synthetic, hydrophobic material, which means it does not absorb moisture as well as natural, hydrophilic fibers like cotton or wool.

However, modern polyester fabrics have been developed to have moisture-wicking properties, making them more breathable.

Here are the most important factors involved in polyester breathability:

1. Pore size: The size of the pores in the fabric directly impacts its breathability. The larger the pores, the more air can flow through the fabric, making it more breathable. The pore size is a result of the other factors mentioned below.
2. Fiber construction: The type of fibers used in the fabric also plays a role in breathability. Polyester fibers are known to be less breathable than natural fibers such as cotton or linen.
3. Fabric weave: The way the fabric is woven can also impact breathability. A looser weave allows more air to flow through the fabric, making it more breathable.
4. Thread thickness: The thickness of the thread used in the polyester fabric (often measured in denier “D” or dtex “T”) can also affect breathability. Thicker threads, such as those with a higher denier or dtex, will block more air and make the fabric less breathable.
5. Fabric density: The density of the fabric can also impact breathability. A denser fabric will block more air and make it less breathable.
6. Moisture management: Breathability is also affected by the ability of the fabric to manage moisture. Polyester fibers are hydrophobic and do not absorb moisture easily, which can make the fabric less breathable because your sweat basically stays on your skin if the polyester fabric is too thick!
7. Chemical treatments: Certain chemical treatments applied to the fabric can also impact breathability. For example, a fabric that has been treated with a water-repellent finish will be less breathable than an untreated fabric, but if the fibers are treated with a hydrophilic treatment they help transport water away from your skin to make the polyester more breathable.

As you can see, there are many factors impacting the breathability of polyester and it is not always simple to determine how breathable a fabric type is without measuring it!

Surface Treatments and Sewing Techniques Affecting Breathability

Breathability is an important factor to consider when choosing a fabric for sportswear or other garments that need to be breathable. There are many different surface treatments and sewing techniques that can affect a polyester fabric’s breathability.

These factors are important to consider when choosing a fabric for sportswear or other garments that need to be breathable.

Some surface treatments that can affect breathability are fabric finishes, such as those that make the fabric water-repellent or stain-resistant.

These finishes can block pores in the fabric, preventing air and moisture from passing through. Other treatments, such as anti-static sprays, can also reduce breathability.

Sewing techniques that can affect breathability include sealing seams with tape or heat sealants, which can prevent air from passing through gaps in the stitching.

There are many different factors to consider when choosing a fabric for sportswear or other garments that need to be breathable.

The best way to determine which surface treatment and sewing technique is right for your needs is to consult with a knowledgeable textile professional.

Key Takeaway: Different surface treatments and sewing techniques can affect a polyester fabric’s breathability.

Is Polyester Good Enough for Hot Weather?

When the weather heats up, you want your clothing to feel cool and comfortable. But sometimes, even your favorite summer clothes can feel like they’re suffocating you.

If you’re wondering whether polyester is a good choice for hot weather, the answer is: it depends.

Certain types of polyester fabric can trap heat against your skin, making you feel hot and sweaty. But other types of polyester are actually quite breathable and can help keep you cool in the summer heat.

If you are sweating, make sure to change into dry clothes as soon as possible. Polyester does not absorb sweat well, so it is important to get rid of the moisture as soon as possible.

Second, if you are caught in the rain, try to find a way to get out of the wet clothes as soon as possible. Again, polyester does not absorb water well, so you will want to avoid being in wet clothes for too long.

Finally, if you are going to be in an environment where you may sweat or get caught in the rain, consider wearing a layer of cotton underneath your polyester clothes. This will help to absorb some of the moisture and will make you more comfortable.

Is Polyester Good for Athletic Wear?

Polyester is a popular choice for athletic wear due to its moisture-wicking properties and durability. It is lightweight and dries quickly, making it suitable for activities such as running, cycling, and gym workouts.

Types of polyester that are best for athletic wear are:

• Polyester spandex blends: These fabrics offer stretch and flexibility, making them ideal for activewear.
• Microfiber polyester: This type of polyester is lightweight and breathable, making it suitable for summer athletic wear.

Compared to nylon, polyester is more durable and resistant to shrinking, fading, and pilling. It is also cheaper than nylon.

Compared to wool, polyester is more lightweight and breathable, making it more suitable for athletic wear. Wool is more insulating and moisture-wicking, making it better for cold-weather athletic wear.

Compared to cotton, polyester is more moisture-wicking and dries faster, making it more suitable for athletic wear. Cotton is more breathable and comfortable, making it better for casual wear.

Compared to linen, polyester is more durable and moisture-wicking, making it more suitable for athletic wear. Linen is more breathable and lightweight, making it better for summer athletic wear.

Are Polyester Blends Breathable?

If you’re looking for something that’s both breathable and durable, polyester blends might be the way to go.

There are different types of polyester blends that have different effects on breathability:

1. Polyester-Spandex Blend: This blend is commonly used in activewear, such as leggings, sports bras, and workout shirts. The spandex provides stretch and flexibility, while the polyester wicks away moisture. This blend is more breathable than pure 100% polyester.
2. Polyester-Cotton Blend: This blend is often used in casual athletic wear, such as t-shirts and shorts. The cotton provides comfort and breathability, while the polyester provides moisture-wicking properties. This blend is more breathable than pure 100% polyester.
3. Polyester-Nylon Blend: This blend is commonly used in outdoor athletic wear, such as hiking pants and jackets. The nylon provides durability and wind resistance, while the polyester wicks away moisture. This blend is less breathable than pure 100% polyester.
4. Polyester-Rayon Blend: This blend is commonly used in athletic wear for yoga, Pilates, and dance. The rayon provides a soft, drapey feel, while the polyester wicks away moisture. This blend is more breathable than pure 100% polyester.
5. Polyester-Bamboo Blend: This blend is commonly used in athletic wear for eco-conscious consumers. The bamboo provides a natural feel and breathability, while the polyester wicks away moisture. This blend is more breathable than pure 100% polyester.
6. Polyester-Wool Blend: This blend is commonly used in cold-weather athletic wear, such as running tights, base layers, and insulated jackets. The wool provides insulation and moisture-wicking properties, while the polyester adds durability. This blend is less breathable than pure 100% polyester.

My favorite here, is the polyester-wool blend as it has the breathable and hygienic (due to the lanolin content of wool) properties of wool, while being much more wear resistant due to the added polyester – which also reduces the price and reduces shrinkage when washing compared to ordinary wool.

Is Polyester Breathable for Underwear?

When it comes to polyester, there is a lot of debate on whether or not it is breathable enough for underwear. Many people believe that polyester is not breathable and can cause discomfort, while others believe that it is a comfortable fabric.

While it is moisture-wicking, it does not allow for proper air flow and can trap heat and sweat against the skin. This can cause discomfort and skin irritation.

For underwear, it is recommended to use fabrics such as cotton, bamboo, or modal that are naturally breathable and allow for proper air flow. These materials are also soft, comfortable, and absorbent, making them ideal for underwear.

It’s worth to mention that some polyester blends can be breathable, for example, a polyester-cotton blend or polyester-bamboo blend, but it’s not as breathable as pure cotton or bamboo, and are not recommended for underwear.

Microfiber polyester is a type of polyester that is made of very small fibers. This type of polyester is often used in sportswear because it is lightweight and breathable.

Regular polyester, on the other hand, is made of larger fibers and is not as breathable as microfiber polyester.

If you are looking for breathability, then microfibre is your best bet. On the other hand, if you want a tougher material, then traditional cotton is the better choice.

Does polyester make you sweat?

Polyester is a man-made fabric that is typically made from petroleum-based products. It is often used in sportswear because it wicks away moisture, dries quickly, and is lightweight.

However, some people find that polyester makes them sweat more than other fabrics.

What Fabrics Are More Breathable Than Polyester?

We all know how hot and sweaty polyester can be, especially in the summer.

But what other fabrics are out there that are more breathable?

Here’s a list of 7:

So there you have it – seven fabrics that are more breathable than polyester. Next time you’re feeling hot and sticky, reach for one of these instead!

Other, less popular, fabrics that can be very breathable include:

• Bamboo
• Rayon
• Tencel
• Modal

What Fabric Is Most Breathable?

When it comes to breathable fabrics, there are a few that stand out above the rest. Wool is generally considered the most breathable fabric, as it allows air to flow freely through its lightweight weave.

However, polyester can also be quite breathable if it is structured properly such as in microfiber. This synthetic fabric is often used in moisture-wicking garments, as it helps to keep the body cool and dry.

Key Takeaway: There are several fabrics more breathable than polyester, including merino wool, cashmere wool, silk, cotton, nylon, linen, and hemp.

Which is better, cotton or polyester, for outdoor clothing?

The two most popular fabrics are cotton and polyster. But why are they so commonly used?

Here we compare the strengths and weaknesses of Polyester and Cotton, two of the most popular materials in the outdoor industry.

Made from petroleum products, polyester is a strong, durable material that’s easy to take care of.

Polyester is less likely to shrink or stretch than cotton, and it dries quickly. It’s also resistant to wrinkles, stains, and mildew.

On the downside, polyester is not as breathable as cotton and can hold onto sweat and body odor. It’s also not as absorbent, so it doesn’t wick away moisture as well.

And because it’s made from petroleum-based products, it’s not as eco-friendly as cotton.

Cotton is a natural fabric made from the cotton plant. It’s soft, absorbent, and breathable.

Cotton is also eco-friendly and biodegradable, which polyester is not!

On the downside, cotton is not as durable as polyester and is more likely to shrink, stretch, or wrinkle. It also takes longer to dry than polyester.

So, which is better for outdoor clothing? It depends on your needs and preferences.

If you want a fabric that’s durable, easy to care for, and quick-drying, then polyester is a good choice. If you prefer a natural fabric that’s soft, absorbent, and breathable, then cotton is a better choice.

What About a Polyester-Cotton Blends?

When it comes to a fabric blend, many people assume that the two fabrics will cancel each other out – but that’s not necessarily the case.

In fact, when it comes to a polyester-cotton blend, the qualities of both fabrics can actually complement each other quite well.

For example, a polyester-cotton blend fabric is often more wrinkle-resistant than a 100% cotton fabric, but it can also be more comfortable to wear in warm weather since it’s more breathable than a 100% polyester fabric.

So, if you’re looking for a fabric that has the best of both worlds – breathability and wrinkle-resistance – then a polyester-cotton blend might be a good option for you.

How can I improve the breathability of my polyester clothing?

Polyester is a popular choice for outdoor clothing due to its durability and affordability. However, polyester can be less breathable than other fabrics such as wool or cotton.

Also consider what fabric you buy and consider the parameters that affect the breathability to choose the most breathable fabric. E.g. less dense, non-layered fleece will typically be more breathable.

If you’re looking to improve the breathability of some polyester clothing you already have, there are several steps you can take:

Choose Lightweight Fabrics: Look for lightweight fabrics when shopping for polyester garments. The lighter the fabric, the more air it will allow through, making it easier to regulate body temperature while outdoors. Also look for loose-fitting clothes that won’t restrict airflow around your body.

Look For Vents Or Mesh Panels: Many outdoor jackets and pants feature vents or mesh panels designed to increase ventilation and reduce overheating during physical activity. These features help keep you cool by allowing air to flow freely in and out of your garment while on the move.

Use Detergent Designed For Activewear: When washing polyester items, use a detergent specifically designed for activewear like sports apparel or technical gear rather than regular laundry detergents which may contain harsh chemicals that could damage delicate fibers over time.

Additionally, rinse twice after washing with cold water to remove any residue from the detergent which could block airflow through the fabric if left behind after laundering.

Hang all washed items outdoors or in a well-ventilated room until they are completely dry before wearing them again.

This will ensure maximum breathability when using them next time. Try to avoid tumble drying whenever possible, as this can cause shrinkage which reduces airflow through the material, not ideal for long hikes.

By choosing the right weight and weave of polyester fabric, you can increase its breathability. Wearing a wicking layer beneath your clothing can also help to keep you cool and comfortable while out on the trail.

Key Takeaway: When shopping for polyester outdoor clothing, look for lightweight fabrics and garments with vents or mesh panels. Additionally, use a detergent specifically designed for activewear when washing items and hang them outdoors to dry before wearing again. This will help ensure maximum breathability when using the garment on hikes or other activities.

What is the most breathable base layer material?

When it comes to choosing the most breathable base layer material, there are a few options available.

Merino wool and cashmere wool are two of the best materials for this purpose. Merino wool is lightweight, soft, and incredibly breathable due to its natural fibers that allow air to pass through easily.

It also has great insulation properties which make it perfect for outdoor activities in cold weather conditions. Cashmere wool is also very breathable and offers excellent warmth without being too bulky or heavy.

In addition to these two fabrics, nylon and polyester are also good choices when looking for a more breathable base layer material.

Nylon is lightweight yet durable enough to withstand wear and tear while still allowing air flow through its fabric structure.

Polyester fleece is another popular option as it provides excellent insulation while still being highly breathable thanks to its microfibers that trap warm air close to your body while letting excess moisture escape quickly.

Cotton can be an effective choice if you’re looking for something light but not necessarily designed with high levels of breathability in mind; however, cotton does tend to absorb sweat more than other fabrics so may not be ideal if you plan on engaging in strenuous activity outdoors during hot weather conditions.

Finally, synthetic materials such as spandex or lycra offer great stretchability but lack some of the natural properties found in merino or cashmere wools which makes them less suitable for use as a base layer material during colder months when extra warmth might be needed.

Ultimately, each person will have their own preference based on what type of activities they plan on doing outdoors – whether that’s hiking up mountains or just taking leisurely walks around town – so finding the right balance between comfort and performance should always take priority over any specific fabric type when selecting clothing items meant specifically for outdoor use.

Merino wool is widely considered to be the most breathable base layer material, but there are other options that can provide adequate levels of breathability for those who prefer synthetic fabrics. Next, we’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of polyester as a base layer material.

Key Takeaway: When choosing a breathable base layer material for outdoor activities, there are several options to consider. Merino wool and cashmere wool provide excellent insulation while nylon and polyester offer great durability. Cotton is lightweight but absorbs sweat quickly while synthetic materials such as spandex or lycra offer stretchability but lack some of the natural properties found in other fabrics. Ultimately, finding the right balance between comfort and performance should take priority over any specific fabric type when selecting clothing items meant specifically for outdoor use.

FAQs

Does polyester breathe like cotton?

Polyester is a synthetic fabric made from petroleum-based products. It is not as breathable as natural fabrics like cotton, but it does allow some airflow and can wick away moisture.

Polyester is often used in sportswear because it dries quickly and doesn’t hold sweat or odor the way cotton does.

Is polyester too hot for summer?

Polyester is a synthetic fabric made from petroleum-based products. It is not as breathable as natural fabrics like cotton, linen, or wool.

However, it is cooler than other synthetics like nylon and acrylic. Polyester can be used in summer clothing if it is combined with other fabrics to allow for air circulation.

Is Polyester Breathable for Babies?

When it comes to baby sleepwear, there are a variety of materials available on the market. Some parents swear by cotton, while others prefer polyester for its flame-resistant properties.

But what about breathability? Is polyester breathable for babies?

The answer is both yes and no. It depends on the quality of the polyester fabric.

Some polyester fabrics are treated with chemicals that can cause allergic reactions in infants. However, if the polyester fabric is of high quality, it should be breathable and comfortable for your baby.

If your infant has an allergic reaction to any type of material, you should stop using it immediately. However, if the polyester fabric is high quality, it should be breathable and comfortable for your baby.

What are some downsides of polyester fabric

As much as we love our polyester clothes, there are a few downsides to this fabric that we need to consider. First, polyester is not biodegradable, so it clogs up landfills and it is not super environmentally friendly.

Additionally, polyester fabric requires a lot of chemicals to make, which pollutes the atmosphere.

So, what can we do to mitigate these downsides? Well, first, we can try to purchase polyester clothes that are made from recycled materials.

Additionally, we can take care of our polyester clothes so that they last longer, and eventually donate or recycle them when we’re done with them.

Is Polyester Breathable for Bedding?

Like everything else you have read about here, the way the fabric is structured does make a difference.

Polyester bedding usually features a kind of microfiber that doesn’t really allow airflow and can therefore trap body heat.

Not all microfiber sheets are equal, though. You can buy pricier bedding that has great wicking ability and more comfortable airflow.

So, if you are wondering if polyester is breathable, the answer is that it can be – it just depends on the quality of the fabric.

Does Polyester Make You Sweat at Night?

Sweating at night can be caused by a number of things, from the temperature of your bedroom to the type of sheets you’re sleeping on. One material that can trap heat and cause you to sweat at night is polyester.

Polyester is a synthetic fabric that is often used in bedding and sleepwear because it is affordable and easy to care for. However, polyester is not a breathable fabric, which means it can trap heat and cause you to sweat at night.

If you find that you’re sweating excessively at night, it might be time to switch to a different type of fabric, such as cotton or linen.

Conclusion

When it comes to breathability, there are two things you need to consider: the fabric itself and the way it’s constructed.

As far as fabrics go, natural fibers like cotton and linen are usually the most breathable. Synthetic fibers like polyester and nylon can be more breathable than you might think, but they’re not as good as natural fibers.

When it comes to construction, loose-fitting clothes are generally more breathable than tight-fitting clothes. Clothes with more layers are also usually more breathable than single-layer clothes.

So, what does all this mean for you?

If you’re looking for the most breathable clothing possible, stick to natural fibers like cotton and linen. And, make sure your clothes are loose-fitting and have several layers.

Of course, you don’t always have to dress for maximum breathability. If you’re going to be in a cool or air-conditioned environment, you can get away with wearing synthetic fibers or tight-fitting clothes.

Just remember, when the temperatures start to rise, it’s time to break out the breathable clothes!

References

https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1528083709102922

https://www.worldscientific.com/doi/abs/10.1142/S0218625X16500037