Clothing and style

An In-Depth Guide to Breathable Summer Fabrics

This guide to the best warm weather fabrics will help you look good and feel great all summer long.

Is it possible to stay both cool and fashionable this summer, whether at work or at play? Yes, if you choose your clothing intelligently.

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However, the wrong choices may lead to visible sweat stains, being uncomfortably warm and retained odors.

Source: Gregg O’Connell (Flickr)

To find the perfect garment for hot weather, consider its breathability, wicking ability, weave and fit. Whether you prefer natural, organic, synthetic or blended fabric, there are plenty of great options to choose from.

Table of Contents

Chambray (left) vs. Denim (right)

However, denim uses much thicker yarn and a tighter weave which makes it more durable, but less breathable. Jeans are a good choice for cold weather, but not really for heat.

Wicking is the ability of a material to move moisture away from the skin, while not being absorbed by the fabric itself.

Cotton, while breathable and often lightweight, absorbs and retains moisture. It does not wick it to the surface.

Wools and some synthetics are great at wicking moisture away from the skin to the surface of the garment where it evaporates without leaving you feeling clammy.

Quick-drying fabrics help keep you cool. If the fabric stays damp, it defeats the purpose of wicking. This is especially important if you live in humid climates.

Fit Matters

Not only does the content of the fabric matter in clothing’s comfort, but the fit also factors in. For instance, clothing that is breathable but not wicking requires a looser fit to keep cool. If it’s skin tight, it becomes clammy as it absorbs moisture.

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