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Athletic wear fabrics are not just about style and comfort; they also play a vital role in an athlete's performance. The right fabric can make a significant difference in how comfortable you feel during exercise, how well your apparel wicks away sweat, and how long your clothing will last. In this post, we will explore the best fabrics for athletic wear and why they matter.

Polyester

Polyester is a popular fabric used in athletic wear, and for a good reason. It is lightweight, durable, and moisture-wicking, making it an excellent choice for high-intensity workouts. Polyester is also stretchy and resistant to wrinkles, which means it can withstand repeated wear and washing without losing its shape or appearance.

However, polyester has a downside: it doesn't breathe as well as other fabrics, which means it can trap heat and sweat against the skin. This can lead to overheating and discomfort, especially during long workouts. Some athletes find that blends of polyester and other moisture-wicking fabrics provide a more breathable and comfortable option.

Blackbourne Athletics' athletic wear is made with a blend of 82% polyester and 18% spandex. This fabric combination provides a stretchy, comfortable fit that allows for unrestricted movement during exercise. Polyester is known for its durability and moisture-wicking properties, while spandex provides excellent elasticity and shape retention. Together, these two fabrics create a high-performance athletic wear that is both comfortable and functional. You can check out Blackbourne Athletics' entire collection here.

Nylon

Nylon is another popular fabric used in athletic wear. Like polyester, it is lightweight, durable, and moisture-wicking. It is also resistant to wrinkles and abrasions, making it an excellent choice for intense workouts.

One of the downsides of nylon is that it can pill easily, which can make it look old and worn out after just a few wears. However, newer blends of nylon and other fabrics can help combat this issue.

Spandex

Spandex is a highly elastic fabric used in athletic wear to provide flexibility and support. It is also lightweight and breathable, which makes it ideal for workouts that require a wide range of motion. Spandex is often blended with other fabrics, such as polyester or nylon, to provide additional support and durability.

One downside of spandex is that it can be prone to pilling, especially if it is not blended with other fabrics. It is also not as moisture-wicking as other fabrics, which can make it uncomfortable during long, sweaty workouts.

Bamboo

Bamboo is a relatively new fabric in athletic wear, but it is quickly gaining popularity. It is incredibly soft and comfortable, making it ideal for workouts that require a lot of movement. It is also moisture-wicking and breathable, which helps keep the skin cool and dry during intense workouts.

Bamboo is also eco-friendly and sustainable, making it an excellent choice for athletes who want to reduce their carbon footprint. However, it is not as durable as other fabrics and can be prone to shrinking and fading.

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The best fabrics for athletic wear are those that are lightweight, durable, moisture-wicking, and breathable. Polyester, nylon, spandex, and bamboo are all popular options, and each has its own unique benefits and downsides. When choosing athletic wear, it's important to consider the type of workout you'll be doing, the climate, and your personal preferences. Investing in high-quality athletic wear made from the best fabrics can make all the difference in your comfort, performance, and overall enjoyment of your workouts.