What is Moisture-Wicking Fabric?

What is moisture-wicking fabric, and how does it work? 

When you sweat, your body is trying to cool off. Most types of fabric will keep moisture trapped, preventing sweat from evaporating quickly and keeping your skin damp.

Moisture-wicking fabric is a type of specially engineered material that draws or “wicks” moisture away from your skin. Its fibers absorb perspiration, allowing it to evaporate and keep your body temperature regulated. 

You’ll often find this fabric technology in high-performance athletic and sports clothing because of its breathability, quick-drying and cooling capabilities. 

Here are seven other benefits of sweat-wicking fabric:

  1. Provides relief from night sweats and hot flashes
  2. Prevents bacterial and fungal growth
  3. Keeps you cool on hot days and nights
  4. Prevents hypothermia
  5. Conceals excessive perspiration
  6. Easy to care for
  7. Available in versatile and fashionable styles

1. Provides Relief From Night Sweats and Hot Flashes

Getting a good night’s sleep can be challenging if you struggle with menopausal night sweats or hot flashes. Moisture-wicking clothing lets air in and sweat out, enabling you to face each day feeling rested and refreshed.

2. Prevents Bacterial and Fungal Growth

Moisture promotes bacteria, which in turn can cause fungus. By preventing moisture from sitting on the skin and penetrating your clothing, you can stop bacterial and fungal growth before it starts. 

3. Keeps You Cool on Hot Days and Nights

When days (and nights) get warmer, staying dry and cool is a priority. Moisture-wicking fabrics are lightweight, keeping your body heat in check when the mercury heads north.

4. Prevents Hypothermia

On the other hand, sweating in cold weather can seem counterintuitive, but it does happen. If sweat is allowed to sit on your skin or penetrate your clothing, you’ll feel colder faster. Moisture-wicking fabric keeps your skin dry and warm.

5. Conceals Excessive Perspiration

By bringing sweat to your skin’s surface and allowing it to evaporate, you needn’t worry about excessive sweat showing through your clothing.

6. Easy To Care For

Moisture-wicking fabrics are machine washable, enabling you to launder them with your other clothing without fear of damage. In addition, moisture-wicking fabrics resist pilling, fading or shrinking, extending the life of your clothing investment. 

Moisture-wicking fibers are also permanent, meaning they won’t wash out and lose effectiveness over time.

7. Available In Versatile and Fashionable Styles

Moisture-wicking fabrics aren’t just for sports anymore! In addition to athletic wear, moisture-wicking materials are widely used for sleepwear and leisurewear to offer all-day comfort and dryness.

June 20, 2022 — Rod Peevy