The workout clothes we choose have a big impact on our workouts. When we decide what to wear while working out, we are really choosing what kind of fabric is going to rub against our sweaty skin for the next 30 minutes or more.
When we exercise, our bodies sweat. The sweat on our skin can cause friction when it rubs against our clothes. That’s why it’s essential to choose the right workout clothes.
The main thing to look for when choosing workout clothes is what fabric or material it is made of. Certain fabrics are better for exercising in.
Different types of workouts also require different clothes. This article lists the most comfortable fabrics you can choose for working out or exercising.
Moisture-wicking
Moisture-wicking fabrics transfer sweat away from the body. Clothes that are made with moisture-wicking fabric help sweat evaporate rather than absorbing or retaining it. This means it prevents rashes as well.
Moisture-wicking fabric helps retain your body temperature during your workout. Most polyester, nylon, and rayon fabric is moisture-wicking.
Cotton
Cotton fabrics are breathable and comfortable against your skin. In moderate or cooler temperatures, cotton fabric can be an excellent choice for workout clothes.
However, cotton fabrics absorb and retain sweat. If you usually sweat a lot during your workout (a true sign of a great workout!) or the temperature is high, cotton is not recommended.
Poly-dri
Poly-dri fabric is similar to polyester, but it doesn’t retain bacteria and odors. It is also more durable than polyester and is more moisture-wicking.
Bamboo
Bamboo fabrics are breathable and moisture-wicking. Workout clothes made with bamboo are odor-resistant and hypoallergenic. Bamboo fabric can also regulate your body temperature.
Mesh
Mesh fabrics allow for ventilation and are the most breathable fabric. Clothes that have mesh cutouts are great for allowing sweat to evaporate off your skin.
Spandex
Spandex is stretchy and flexible, making it a perfect choice for yoga. Spandex is skin-tight, so it is usually found in sports bras and leggings. Spandex is not the most breathable fabric, so you may feel restricted while wearing clothes made with spandex.
French terry
French terry fabrics are similar to cotton in that they are comfortable against the skin, but aren’t good if you tend to sweat a lot or if the temperature is high.
Polypropylene
Polypropylene fabric is a perfect choice for working out in extreme weather. This kind of fabric is waterproof and is meant to handle any weather. Polypropylene helps keep sweat off your skin during your workouts in extreme heat or extreme cold.
No matter what workout you are doing – stretching, yoga, hiking, dancing, jogging, aerobics, cycling, weightlifting – the right workout clothes can make all the difference. The right workout clothes are non-restricting, comfortable, and stretchy.
When you choose a workout outfit, consider how comfortable it will be while you are sweating and pushing your body to its limits.
Don’t choose your workout clothes based on style alone! Consider if your outfit is comfortable, stretchy, and breathable. These are the most important factors when choosing clothes for exercise.