Calling all activewear and sportswear brands - take your business performance to unprecedented heights with a solid understanding of the science behind activewear Fabrics. When it comes to active and sportswear, selecting the perfect fabric is absolutely crucial. Activewear fabrics are meticulously engineered to elevate performance and ensure unparalleled comfort during physical activities. They boast exceptional moisture-wicking properties, keeping you dry and fresh even in the most intense workouts. With outstanding stretch and flexibility, these fabrics enable unrestricted movement, empowering athletes to excel in their chosen sports. Embrace these high-performance fabrics and watch your brand soar to new levels of success!

1. Moisture-Wicking Fabrics: Staying Dry and Comfortable

Moisture-wicking technology is a game-changer for athletes and fitness enthusiasts. It works by pulling sweat away from the skin to the fabric's surface, where it can evaporate quickly, keeping the wearer dry and comfortable. Polyester is a moisture-wicking material known for its excellent moisture management properties but various companies have developed technical performance fabrics like the R Elan from Reliance, which has superior moisture management properties than regular polyester. R Elan fabrics are known for their high quality, durability, and performance. It is used in a wide variety of garments, including suits, dresses, shirts, pants, and jackets.

a. Polyester

Polyester is a synthetic fibre that is made from a chemical reaction between petroleum, air, and water. It is one of the most popular fabrics in the world.

The manufacturing process of Polyester: Polyester is produced by a process called condensation polymerization. This process involves reacting a dicarboxylic acid with a diol to form a polyester chain. The most common dicarboxylic acid used in polyester production is terephthalic acid (PTA), and the most common diol is ethylene glycol (EG).

The first step in polyester production is to produce PTA. This is done by reacting naphthalene with oxygen in a vapour-phase reactor. The naphthalene is converted to phthalic anhydride, which is then hydrogenated to form PTA.

Once PTA is produced, it is reacted with EG to form a polyester prepolymer. This prepolymer is then heated to a high temperature, causing the monomers to react and form a polyester chain. The polyester chain is then cooled and solidified into pellets.

Advantages and disadvantages of Polyester

Advantages:

1. Durable and lightweight: Polyester is a strong and lightweight fabric that is resistant to tearing and breaking. This makes it a good choice for garments that need to be durable, such as activewear and outerwear.

2. Wrinkle-resistant: Polyester is a wrinkle-resistant fabric that does not require ironing. This makes it a good choice for garments that need to be wrinkle-free, such as suits and formalwear.

3. Quick-drying: Polyester dries quickly, making it a good choice for garments that will be worn in wet or humid conditions.

4. Stain-resistant: Polyester is stain-resistant, making it easy to clean.

5. Easy to care for: Polyester is a low-maintenance fabric that can be machine-washed and dried.

6. Variety of colours and easy to dye: Polyester is a versatile fibre that can be dyed in a wide variety of colours. Polyester is also easy to dye, which means that it can be dyed quickly and easily.

Disadvantages:

1. Not as breathable as natural fibres: Polyester is not as breathable as natural fibres, such as cotton or wool: This can make it feel hot and uncomfortable to wear in hot weather.

2. Can be static-prone: Polyester can be static-prone, which can be uncomfortable and can attract dust and lint.

3. Not biodegradable: Polyester is not biodegradable, which means that it will not break down in the environment. This can be a problem for the environment, as polyester can end up in landfills or in the ocean.

4. Polyester can foster bacteria and fungi growth, and they hold onto odours, if not washed properly.

Polyester fibre is suitable for a wide range of clothing due to its versatile properties and benefits. Some of the key characteristics of polyester make it an ideal choice for various types of apparel like activewear, swimwear, home textiles, etc.

b. Recycled Polyester

Recycled polyester, often called rPet, is made from recycled plastic bottles. It is a great way to divert used plastic from our landfills and convert it into productive use, giving it a fresh lease of life.

The manufacturing process of Recycled Polyester

1. Collection: The first step is to collect the post-consumer plastic bottles. These bottles can be collected from recycling bins, waste management facilities, or even directly from consumers.

2. Sorting: The collected bottles are then sorted by color and type. This is important because different types of plastic require different recycling processes.

3. Cleaning: The sorted bottles are then cleaned to remove any contaminants, such as labels or dirt. This is done using a variety of methods, including water washing, solvent cleaning, and steam cleaning.

4. Shredding: The cleaned bottles are then shredded into small flakes. This makes it easier to process the plastic and helps to ensure that the recycled polyester is of consistent quality.

5. Melting: The shredded flakes are then melted in a large furnace. This process breaks down the plastic into its basic components, which can then be reformed into new polyester.

6. Spinning: The molten plastic is then spun into fibers. These fibers can then be used to make a variety of products, such as clothing, carpets, and insulation.

7. Finishing: The fibers are then finished to give them the desired properties. This may involve adding color, heat treatment, or other finishing processes.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Recycled Polyester

Advantages

1. Environmentally friendly: Recycled polyester is made from recycled plastic bottles, which helps to conserve resources and reduce pollution.

2. Cost-effective: The cost of recycled polyester can be lower than the cost of other polyesters because it does not require as much energy to produce.

3. Same properties: Recycled polyester has the same properties as other polyesters, so it can be used to make the same products.

4. Durable: Recycled polyester is a durable material that can withstand a lot of wear and tear.

5. Moisture-wicking: Recycled polyester is moisture-wicking, which helps to keep you dry and comfortable.

Disadvantages

1. Color limitations: The color of recycled polyester may not be as vibrant as some other types of polyester.

2. Potential for contamination: Recycled polyester may be contaminated with other materials, such as labels or dirt. This can affect the quality of the fabric.

3. Higher price: Recycled polyester can be more expensive than some other types of polyester.

2. Stretch and Flexibility: Freedom of Movement

Stretch fabrics play a vital role in activewear, allowing freedom of movement during workouts. Elastane and spandex fibers are the driving forces behind the stretchability of these fabrics, providing comfort and support during physical activities.

Elastane and Spandex

Elastane and spandex are the same material. They are both synthetic fibers that are known for their exceptional elasticity. Elastane is the generic term for this type ofibresf fibre, while spandex is a brand name that was trademarked by DuPont.

LYCRA® fiber is the registered trademark of a type of synthetic elastic fibre commonly referred to as spandex in the United States and elastane in the rest of the world. Spandex, Lycra, and Elastane are terms that can be used interchangeably as they both describe basically the same material.

The manufacturing process of Elastane: Elastane, also known as spandex or Lycra, is a synthetic fibre that is known for its elasticity. It is often used in blends with other fibres to add stretch and recovery. The production process of elastane typically involves the following steps:

1. Preparation: The raw materials are prepared, which typically include diisocyanate, macroglycol, and diamine.

2. Polymerization: The prepolymer is formed by reacting the diisocyanate and macroglycol.

3. Spinning: The prepolymer is spun into fibres.

4. Stretching: The fibres are stretched to increase their elasticity.

5. Cooling: The fibers are cooled to solidify them.

6. Finishing: The fibers are finished, which may include cutting, blending, and texturing.

The production process of elastane is a complex process that requires specialized equipment and expertise. However, the process has been refined over the years to produce elastane that is high quality and consistent.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Elastane and Spandex

Advantages:

1. Elasticity: Elastane and spandex are very elastic fibers, which means that they can stretch and recover well. This makes them a good choice for clothing that needs to be form-fitting or that will be subjected to a lot of movement.

2.Comfort: Elastane and spandex are comfortable fibers to wear. They are soft and smooth against the skin, and they do not cling or restrict movement.

3.Versatile: Elastane and spandex can be blended with other fibers to create a variety of different fabrics. This makes them a versatile fiber that can be used in a wide variety of clothing items.

4.Durable: Elastane and spandex are durable fibers that can withstand a lot of wear and tear.

5.Breathable: Elastane and spandex are breathable fibers that allow moisture to escape, keeping you cool and comfortable.

Disadvantages:

1. Price: Elastane and spandex are relatively expensive fibers.

2. Heat sensitive: Elastane and spandex can lose their elasticity over time and with exposure to high temperatures.

3. Not biodegradable: Elastane and spandex are not biodegradable, which means that they will not break down in the environment.

4. Can cause skin irritation: In some cases, elastane and spandex can cause skin irritation, especially in people with sensitive skin.

Elastane and spandex are both suitable for a variety of clothing items, but they are especially popular in garments that need to be form-fitting or that will be subjected to a lot of movement like yoga pants, swimwear, leggings, and sportswear.

3. Breathable Fabrics: Stay Cool, Stay Fresh

Ventilation and breathability are essential for activewear, especially during intense workouts. Mesh and lightweight synthetic fabrics promote optimal airflow, helping athletes stay cool and preventing overheating.

Mesh Fibers

Mesh fibers are often used in sportswear and athletic apparel because they are lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking.

Manufacturing Process of mesh fibres

Mesh fabric is made with a variety of different techniques depending on the type of fiber from which it is composed. While nylon and polyester are very similar in a number of ways, polyester was developed a few decades after nylon, which means that the production of this synthetic material follows significantly more advanced manufacturing processes.

1. Though the processes used to make these two types of fabric fibers differ, for each type of fiber,
2. The process begins with the refining of petroleum oil. Polyamide monomers are then extracted from this oil, and these monomers are then reacted with various forms of acid to make polymers.
3. These polymers are usually solid after they are reacted, and they are then melted and forced through spinnerets to make polymer strands.
4. Once these strands have cooled, they can be loaded onto spools and shipped to textile manufacturing facilities to be made into mesh fabric.
5. In most cases, manufacturers of mesh fabric will dye their polyester or nylon fibers before they weave them into fabric. Textile manufacturers can then weave these fibers in a number of different ways to create various forms of mesh.

Advantages and Disadvantages of mesh fibers

Advantages

1. Lightweight: Mesh fibers are very lightweight, which makes them ideal for applications where weight is a concern. For example, they are often used in sportswear and outdoor apparel.

2. Strength: Mesh fibers are often very strong, even though they are lightweight. This makes them ideal for applications where strength is important.

3. Versatile: Mesh fibers can be used in a wide variety of applications. They are often used in clothing, but they can also be used in other applications, such as packaging, filtration, and insulation.

4. Breathable: Mesh fibers are often breathable, which means that they allow moisture to escape. This makes them ideal for applications where comfort is important, such as sportswear and activewear.

Disadvantages

1. Not as durable: Mesh fibers are not as durable as some other types of fibers. This means that they may be more prone to damage, such as tearing or breaking.

2. Not as warm: Mesh fibers are not as warm as some other types of fibers. This means that they may not be suitable for cold weather applications.

3. Not as opaque: Mesh fibers are not as opaque as some other types of fibers. This means that they may not be suitable for applications where privacy is important.

Mesh fibres are suitable for a variety of clothes, including sportswear, outdoor apparel, workwear, and fashion wear.

4. Compression Fabrics: The Power of Support

Compression garments utilize scientific principles to enhance blood flow and reduce muscle fatigue. They are commonly used in sports and recovery to improve performance and aid in muscle recovery.

Compression Fabrics

Compression fabrics are fabrics that are designed to apply snug, even pressure to the body. They are often made from synthetic fibres, such as nylon or polyester, and they may contain elastane for added stretch.

Manufacturing Process of Compression Fabrics

There are several fibre manufacturing processes dependent on certain materials. The chemical composition, structure and properties of synthetic fibres are often modified during manufacturing processes. Synthetic fibres are produced by the reaction of several types of monomers, forming long-chain polymers through a process called Polymerization. Let’s take a look at the types of fibre manufacturing processes in more detail:

1. Spinning: Fibre spinning is a significant manufacturing method that’s used to produce most fibres. For fibre extrusion, a spinneret is used, which looks like your typical shower head. A spinneret has several small openings where filaments emerge, are converted into a rubbery state, and then solidified. There are specific types of spinning methods in fibre manufacturing, including:

a. Solution Spinning: This is the continuous process of fibre making for materials that can’t be melted, also known as Wet and Dry-Jet Wet Spinning.

b. Melt Spinning: The typical spinning of synthetics, including Polyester, Nylon and Polypropylene, where melted polymer is formed out of the spinneret and wound through quenching and drawing.

c. Force Spinning: Force spinning helps produce binder free porous Sn/C composite nanofibers.

d. Electrospinning: A unique approach that uses electrostatic forces to make finer fibres (microfibres or nanofibres) from polymer melts and solutions.

e. Wet Spinning: Polymers are dissolved in a solvent to develop polymer-based fibres, one of the oldest processes.

f. Dry Spinning: Through controlled evaporation, dry spinning turns a high vapour pressure polymer solution into a solid fibre.

g. Gel Spinning: Also known as Semi-Melt Spinning, this process is used to achieve high strength and elasticity in fibres.

h. Stretching and Drawing: Stretching or drawing is a process that pulls long polymer chains to improve the strength, crystallinity, and lustre quality of fibres. It’s a vital post-spinning operation that stretches polymer chains at the molecular level to increase chain molecule alignment and mobility to enhance performance.

2. Texturing and Crimping

This process is where synthetic fibres are modified so that they change texture, and often the development aims to mimic natural fibre properties. Texturing and crimping take advantage of the thermoplastic nature of the fibres and are often used to improve insulative properties, minimise the synthetic look that is often shiny, and create special effects such as patterned yarns.

3. Intermingling and Interlacing

Intermingling and interlacing are processes that make fibres compact, compressing the air to increase resistance and elasticity. Often, this process is used in yarn production to create the braiding effect.

4. Heating and Melting

Also known as heat bonding or melt bonding, this process is where pressurised steam or hot air is used to fuse the crossover points of fibres to improve the fibre’s resilience, recovery, and dimensional stability. It’s often the final stage of the fibre manufacturing process, depending on the fibre’s heat resistance and end-use.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Compression Fabrics

Advantages

1. Support: Compression fabrics provide support to the muscles and joints, which can help to improve performance and reduce the risk of injury.

2. Recovery: Compression fabrics can help to improve circulation and reduce inflammation, which can help to speed up recovery after exercise.

3. Comfort: Compression fabrics are often comfortable to wear, even when they are providing a lot of support.

4. Variety: Compression fabrics are available in a variety of weights and thicknesses, so they can be tailored to the specific needs of the wearer.

Disadvantages

1. Price: Compression fabrics can be more expensive than other types of fabrics.

2. Heat: Compression fabrics can trap heat, which can make them uncomfortable to wear in hot weather.

3. Tightness: Compression fabrics can be too tight for some people, which can cause discomfort or even pain.

Compression fabrics are often used in sportswear, activewear, and medical garments. They are also sometimes used in fashion wear.

5. Anti-Odor and Quick-Drying Fabrics: Fresh and Functional

Quick-drying fabrics are fabrics that dry quickly after being wet. They are often made from synthetic fibers, such as polyester or nylon, but some natural fibres, such as cotton, can also be quick-drying. Quick-drying fabrics are often used for activewear, as they help to keep you dry and comfortable during physical activity. They are also a good choice for travel, as they can be easily washed and dried. There are a few factors that contribute to the quick-drying properties of a fabric. These include:

a. Fibre Type: Synthetic fibers, such as polyester and nylon, are typically more moisture-wicking than natural fibers, such as cotton. This means that they are better at absorbing moisture and then evaporating it away from the skin.

b. The weave: The weave of a fabric also affects its drying speed. A tightly woven fabric will take longer to dry than a loosely woven fabric.

c. The finishing treatment: Some fabrics are treated with chemicals to make them more moisture-wicking and quick-drying.

Here are some of the most common quick-drying fabrics:

a. Polyester: Polyester is a synthetic fiber that is known for its moisture-wicking properties. It is also relatively inexpensive, making it a good option for budget-minded shoppers.

b. Nylon: Nylon is another synthetic fiber that is known for its moisture-wicking properties. It is also strong and durable, making it a good choice for activewear.

c. Cotton: Cotton is a natural fiber that can be quick-drying if it is woven tightly. However, cotton is not as moisture-wicking as synthetic fibers, so it will not dry as quickly if it is wet.

d. Merino wool: Merino wool is a natural fiber that is known for its moisture-wicking properties. It is also soft and comfortable to wear, making it a good choice for activewear.

e. Tencel: Tencel is a synthetic fiber that is made from wood pulp. It is soft, breathable, and quick-drying, making it a good choice for activewear and travel.

6. Thermal Fabrics: Activewear for All Seasons

Thermal fabrics are fabrics that are designed to trap heat, keeping you warm in cold weather. They are often made from natural fibers, such as wool or fleece, or synthetic fibers, such as polyester or polypropylene.

Thermal fabrics work by trapping air pockets between the fibers. These air pockets act as insulation, preventing heat from escaping from your body. Thermal fabrics are typically thicker than other fabrics, which helps to trap more air. But there are several other lightweight thermal fabric options like the 3M Thinsulate which is a synthetic insulation that is used in a wide variety of garments and products. It is made of 100% polyester fibers that are incredibly fine and lightweight. These fibres trap air, which helps to retain heat and keep the wearer warm. Thinsulate is known for its warmth-to-weight ratio, which means that it is very effective at keeping people warm without being bulky or heavy.

There are many different types of thermal fabrics available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Some of the most common thermal fabrics include:

a. Wool: Wool is a natural fiber that is known for its warmth and durability. It is also a good moisture-wicking fabric, which helps to keep you dry in cold weather.

b. Fleece: Fleece is a synthetic fiber. The vast majority of fleece fabric sold in stores today is made of polyester fibers; however, fleece fabric can also be made of cotton, hemp, and rayon fibers. It is soft, warm, and comfortable to wear.

c. Polyester: Polyester is a synthetic fiber that is known for its moisture-wicking properties. It is also relatively inexpensive, making it a good option for budget-minded shoppers.

d. Polypropylene: Polypropylene is a synthetic fiber that is known for its heat retention properties. It is also lightweight and dries quickly, making it a good option for activewear.

7. UV-Protective Fabrics: Shielding from the Sun

UV protective fabrics are fabrics that have been treated to block ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. UV rays can cause skin cancer and other health problems, so it is important to wear UV-protective clothing when you are outdoors.

Here are some UV-protective fabrics:

1. UV Protective Nylon: Nylon is a synthetic fabric known for its strength and durability. When treated with UV-absorbing agents, it becomes an effective material for UV protection.

2. UV Blocking Polyester: Polyester is another popular synthetic fabric that can be engineered to have UV-resistant properties, making it suitable for various outdoor activities.

3. UV Resistant Lycra/Spandex: Lycra or spandex is a stretchy fabric often used in swimwear and sportswear. When blended with UV-blocking materials, it provides excellent sun protection while maintaining flexibility.

4. UV Protective Polypropylene: Polypropylene is a lightweight and moisture-wicking fabric that can be treated to offer UV resistance, making it suitable for activewear and base layers.

5. UV Blocking Bamboo: Bamboo fabric is a natural, sustainable option that can be blended with UV-absorbing additives to create sun-protective clothing.

6. UV Resistant Merino Wool: Merino wool, a natural fiber known for its temperature-regulating properties, can also be treated for UV protection, making it suitable for outdoor enthusiasts.

7. UV Protective UPF-treated Cotton: While cotton itself has a lower natural UPF, it can be treated with UV-absorbing agents to enhance its sun-protective qualities.

The amount of UV protection offered by a fabric is measured by its UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) rating. A UPF rating of 30 means that the fabric will block 97% of UV rays. A UPF rating of 50 means that the fabric will block 98% of UV rays.

When choosing UV-protective clothing, it is important to look for clothing with a UPF rating of 30 or higher. You should also choose clothing that is made from a tightly woven fabric. Loosely woven fabrics will not offer as much UV protection.

8. Sustainable Options: Bamboo and Merino Wool

The rise of sustainable activewear fabrics is transforming the clothing industry. Bamboo fabric offers numerous benefits for athletes and the environment, being eco-friendly and moisture-wicking. Merino wool, a natural performance fabric with inherent anti-odor properties, is gaining popularity for its sustainability.

a. Bamboo

Bamboo has gained popularity as an eco-friendly material used in various products. Its versatility has extended to the world of activewear, as bamboo pulp can be transformed into a lightweight and natural fabric. Bamboo is often blended with other fabrics to create unique blends suitable for activewear. This allows the creation of sustainable and comfortable clothing options for those who enjoy outdoor activities and sports.

Bamboo can be blended with cotton in a number of ways, including physical blending, chemical blending, and microfiber blending. Blending bamboo with cotton can improve the softness, durability, moisture-wicking properties, and sustainability of the fabric. However, blended bamboo fabrics can be more expensive and less widely available than fabrics made from 100% cotton. It is important to read the care label carefully before washing blended bamboo fabrics.

The manufacturing process of Bamboo Fabric

1. Harvesting: Bamboo is harvested from bamboo plants. The plants are cut down and the culms (the stems) are separated from the roots.

2. Processing: The culms are processed to remove the outer layer and extract the fibers. The fibers are then washed and bleached.

3. Spinning: The fibers are spun into yarn. The yarn can be made from 100% bamboo or it can be blended with other fibers, such as cotton or polyester.

4. Weaving: The yarn is woven into fabric. The fabric can be made into a variety of products, such as activewear, bedding, and towels.

5. Finishing: The fabric is finished to give it the desired properties. This may involve adding color, heat treatment, or other finishing processes.

Advantages and disadvantages of Bamboo wool

Advantages:

1. Soft and comfortable: Bamboo fibers are naturally soft and absorbent, making bamboo fabrics comfortable for physical activity.

2. Moisture-wicking: Bamboo fibers are able to wick moisture away from the body, which helps to keep you cool and dry during physical activity.

3. Antibacterial and antifungal: Bamboo fibers have natural antibacterial and antifungal properties, which can help to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold.

4. Sustainable: Bamboo is a fast-growing plant, making it a sustainable source of material for fabric.

5. Hypoallergenic: Bamboo fibers are hypoallergenic, which means that they are less likely to cause allergic reactions.

Disadvantages:

1. Can be expensive: Bamboo fabrics can be more expensive than other types of fabric, such as cotton or polyester.

2. Can be difficult to find: Bamboo fabrics are not as widely available as other types of fabric, so it may be difficult to find them in stores.

3. Can shrink: Bamboo fabrics can shrink when they are washed, so it is important to follow the care instructions carefully.

4. May not be as durable as other fabrics: Bamboo fabrics may not be as durable as other fabrics, such as cotton or polyester.

Bamboo fabric is suitable for a variety of clothes, including Activewear, pyjamas, and dresses. Read our blog about bamboo garments made by NoName for Fashion brands like yours.

b. Merino Wool

Merino wool is a type of wool that comes from merino sheep. Merino sheep are a breed of sheep that are known for their fine, soft wool. Merino wool is often considered to be the highest quality wool available.

The manufacturing process of Merino wool

1 Shearing: Merino sheep are sheared once a year, usually in the spring. The wool is sheared by hand or machine.

2. Sorting: The sheared wool is sorted by quality and length. The best quality wool is used for making high-end garments.

3. Cleaning: The wool is cleaned to remove dirt, debris, and lanolin. Lanolin is a natural oil that is found in sheep's wool.

4. Carding: The cleaned wool is carded to align the fibers. This makes the wool easier to spin.

5. Spinning: The aligned wool is spun into yarn. The yarn is spun on a spinning wheel or a machine.

6. Knitting or weaving: The yarn is then knitted or woven into fabric.

7. Finishing: The fabric is finished to improve its properties. This may involve washing, dyeing, or treating the fabric with chemicals.

The manufacturing process of merino wool can be a complex and time-consuming process. However, the resulting fabric is often very soft, warm, and comfortable.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Merino wool

Advantages

1. Moisture-wicking: Merino wool can absorb up to 30% of its weight in moisture without feeling wet or clammy. This makes it a great choice for activewear, as it helps to keep you dry and comfortable.

2. In insulating: Merino wool is also a good insulator, which means it can help to keep you warm in cold weather and cool in warm weather. This is because the fibers of merino wool trap air, which acts as a barrier against heat loss or gain.

3. Odor-resistant: Merino wool is naturally odor-resistant, which means it doesn't start to smell bad even if you wear it for several days without washing it. This is because the fibers of merino wool have a natural antimicrobial property that inhibits the growth of bacteria.

4. Breathable: Merino wool is also breathable, which means it allows sweat to evaporate away from your skin, keeping you cool and comfortable.

5. Soft: Merino wool is naturally soft and gentle on the skin, making it a good choice for people with sensitive skin.

Disadvantages

1. Price: Merino wool is typically more expensive than other natural fibers, such as cotton or linen.

2. Durability: Merino wool is not as durable as some other fibers, such as nylon or polyester. This means that it can be more prone to pilling and wear and tear.

3. Care: Merino wool can be more difficult to care for than some other fibers. It should be hand-washed or machine-washed on a gentle cycle with cold water. It should also be air-dried, as putting it in the dryer can shrink the fabric.

Merino wool is a natural fiber that is known for its softness, breathability, and moisture-wicking properties. It is a good choice for people who are looking for a comfortable and versatile fabric. Merino wool is suitable for a variety of clothes like base layers, socks, sweaters, hats, and gloves.

9. Choosing the Right Activewear Fabric for Your Activities

When selecting activewear fabrics, consider factors like the type of physical activity, fabric properties, and personal preferences. Matching the right fabric with specific sports and exercises ensures optimal performance and comfort.

If you're looking to produce activewear, partnering with a reputable clothing manufacturer in India like Noname, can provide access to high-quality fabrics and production expertise. Noname is known for its wide range of fabric options suitable for activewear.

10. Caring for Your Activewear Fabrics

Activewear is designed to be worn during physical activity, so it's important to care for it properly to keep it in good condition. Here are some tips on how to care for your activewear:

a. Wash activewear after each wear: This will help to remove sweat and body oils, which can cause bacteria to grow and lead to odor.

b. Wash activewear in cold water: Hot water can shrink and fade fabrics, so it's best to wash activewear in cold water.

c. Use a mild detergent: Harsh detergents can strip away the natural oils from fabrics, making them feel stiff and uncomfortable. Use a mild detergent designed for delicate fabrics.

d. Avoid using fabric softener: Fabric softener can coat fabrics and make them less breathable.

e. Air-dry activewear: Drying activewear in the dryer can cause it to shrink and fade. Air-drying is the best way to preserve your activewear.

f. Spot clean stains immediately: If you get a stain on your activewear, it's important to spot-clean it immediately. This will help to prevent the stain from setting in.

g. Store activewear properly: When you're not wearing your activewear, store it in a cool, dry place. This will help to prevent it from getting mildew or mold.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your activewear in good condition and extend its lifespan.

Conclusion

For mid-size fashion brands dealing in activewear, understanding the science behind activewear fabrics is important to ensure success in the competitive market. Careful consideration of fabric properties, such as moisture-wicking capabilities, stretch, breathability, compression, UV protection, and sustainability, is essential to creating high-performance and comfortable activewear for customers. Partnering with reputable fabric suppliers and manufacturers like NoName can provide access to a wide range of quality fabrics suitable for activewear production.

Additionally, emphasizing proper care instructions and educating customers on how to maintain their activewear will enhance brand loyalty and customer satisfaction. By harnessing the power of advanced activewear fabrics, mid-size fashion brands can elevate their products to new heights, gaining a competitive edge and winning the hearts of fitness enthusiasts and athletes alike.

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