The Right Formula for Adding Performance to Natural Fiber Fabrics

Consumers’ growing demands for ultra-soft apparel goods and "natural" fibers is forcing development of fabric with increasingly high percentages of cotton and regenerative cellulosic materials. Introducing these fibers at higher percentages improves the hand (softness) of the material but adversely effects moisture management. Not to mention, these "natrual" fibers demand higher premiums in comparison to synthetic alternatives. This presents a difficult decision for material and design teams wanting to balance the softness and performance of these fabrics.

We conducted lab and wear test studies with two fabrics from the TurboDry? Naturals Collection to provide insights.

The Fabrics Investigated

The two fabrics selected from the TurboDry? Naturals Collection were nearly identical in weight but vary in fiber content percentages.

The Cozy Commuter contains majority cellulosic fiber, while the Comfy Crusher is majority synthetic. Both materials are the same construction. The graphs below compare the drying rate and one-way transport capability (OWTC) before and after 25 home launders (HL).

The Comfy Crusher fabric displays a larger OWTC and faster drying rate than the Cozy Commute but considering both display larger OWTC values and faster drying rates than fully synthetic fabrics of similar construction.

Testing the fabrics in garment form helps paint a better picture.

The Wear Test

A few months ago, two hoodies (Comfy Crusher seen in cover image) were made using each fabric and worn in identical conditions - during high intensity activity, while lounging at home , and when going out to eat. After 10 weeks of wear testing the garments become staples in the rotation each for different occasions. The Comfy Crusher - majority polyester - became a staple garment for every mountain and dessert adventure, while the Cozy Commuter - majority modal - became a casual wear item. Though both fabrics displayed similar moisture management and snag/pill resistance the superior hand on the Cozy Commuter created a perception of "in-doors only" use. With that being said, the Comfy Crusher fabric is still one of the softest fabrics in the collection.

But which fabric is better?

As pointed out above, there are clear benefits and advantages to both materials. One fabric achieves better moisture management performance at a lower premium but sacrifices on a the hand ("Comfy Crusher"). The other fabric has a better hand and stronger natural fiber marketing story but sacrifices on moisture management performance (still likely superior to non-TDry? constructions). Ultimately, we believe the fabric choice depends on the priorities of the brand and strategy for product innovation.

Regardless of the decision, the TDry? technology suit elevates moisture management capabilities, providing a competitive advantage over other fabric materials, especially in in natural/cellulosic fiber space. For more information to about this study and TDry? fabrics please contact us at [email protected].?