The fabrics used for clothing come in many types, each with distinct characteristics that not only enhance the overall aesthetic but also influence the style and functionality of the garments. This year, at the Functional Textiles Shanghai by Performance Days, in collaboration with the China Textile Information Center, the 2025 Spring/Summer trend report on functional fabrics for the Chinese market highlighted a shift towards more casual, sporty attire. Consumers are increasingly favoring comfortable clothing that meets daily functional needs and ensures long-term practicality. In the market, sportswear primarily comprises cotton and polyester. Which of these materials better aligns with current consumer demands?
Durability
Polyester boasts high strength and abrasion resistance, making it resistant to deformation after multiple wears and washes. In contrast, cotton may shrink and deform after washing and is prone to wear and tear, requiring special care. In terms of long-term practicality and durability, polyester fabrics outperform cotton fabrics.
Functionality
Polyester is less prone to wrinkling than cotton, making it easier to maintain and clean, and it dries quickly. This makes it especially suitable for consumers engaging in daily activities such as fitness, badminton, training, and running, providing convenience in wearing and caring for their sports clothing. Additionally, polyester offers better elasticity and a lighter weight compared to cotton, making it more suitable for high-intensity sports scenarios, such as yoga and Pilates.
Comfort
Cotton is a natural fiber that provides a more comfortable feel against the skin. Polyester, while not as natural in texture, may cause discomfort for some people. However, in sports-related contexts, improved and processed polyester fabric enhances its quick-drying and cooling properties, significantly elevating the wearing experience and thus outperforming cotton clothing in sportswear.
Through the comparison of the three aspects mentioned above, the differences between cotton and polyester are quite pronounced in the performance of sportswear. In addition to 100% polyester fabrics, there are now sports garments made from polyester-cotton and polyester-spandex blends. Given the current consumer trends in sportswear demand, the use of polyester and its blended fabrics is on the rise. It is believed that in the future, innovative functional polyester and its blended interwoven fabrics will continue to evolve in response to consumer needs.
