How can you select the best materials for athletic wear?

2 The functions of athletic wear

Athletic wear isn't just about fashion or style; it needs to meet certain functions that support your activity and well-being. Moisture management is essential for absorbing, wicking, or repelling sweat and water from your skin, while thermal regulation helps you maintain or adjust your body temperature. Protection is also important for shielding you from external factors, such as UV rays, while support can provide compression, stability, or cushioning to your muscles, joints, or feet. All of these functions can help you stay dry, cool, and comfortable; prevent chafing, irritation, and infection; avoid overheating, hypothermia, or fatigue; improve your blood circulation and metabolism; prevent sunburn, dehydration, skin damage, or allergic reactions; and enhance your posture or reduce recovery time.

3 The criteria for material selection

When selecting materials for your athletic wear, there are several criteria to consider in order to meet the necessary functions. Durability, elasticity, breathability, weight, and cost are all important factors that can affect the lifespan, quality, fit, comfort, mobility, moisture management, thermal regulation, performance, energy consumption, affordability, availability and sustainability of your athletic wear.

4 The types of materials for athletic wear

When selecting materials for athletic wear, you have many options depending on the criteria and functions you prioritize. Natural fibers, derived from plants or animals, are often soft and breathable but can be heavy and absorbent. Synthetic fibers, made from chemicals or petroleum, are typically durable and elastic but may be non-breathable or irritating to the skin. Blended fibers, a combination of natural and synthetic fibers, aim to balance the advantages and disadvantages of both types while creating new properties or effects. Smart materials can also be used; these are materials that can change their properties in response to stimuli such as temperature, light, or electricity. They can provide functions such as self-healing, color-changing, or heating and cooling.

5 The examples of material selection for athletic wear

When selecting the best materials for your athletic wear, it's important to consider the type of activity you'll be doing. For example, when running, you need materials that are lightweight, breathable, elastic, and moisture-wicking, like polyester, nylon, or spandex. You may also want materials that are reflective, windproof, or water-resistant depending on the weather and lighting conditions. For yoga, you need materials that are soft, stretchy, comfortable, and supportive such as cotton, bamboo, or spandex. You may also want materials that are natural, organic, or eco-friendly depending on your values and preferences. When skiing, you need materials that are warm, insulating, protective and durable such as wool, fleece or nylon. You may also want materials that are smart like phase-change materials to regulate your temperature or shape-memory materials to adapt to your body.