When deciding what workout gear to buy, take a moment to consider key factors like weather conditions, material types, fit, comfort, and function. These features are worth reviewing before you hit “add to cart.”
In warmer weather, go for gear that’s lightweight and breathable. In colder environments, moisture-wicking base layers and insulated pieces work best. Layering is especially helpful during transitional seasons when mornings and evenings are chilly, but the sun warms up the day. Let’s take a closer look at some common performance materials.
Popular Performance Fabrics
Polyester
Polyester is one of the most widely used fabrics in sportswear and athleisure, and for good reason. It’s inexpensive to produce, durable, moisture-wicking, quick-drying, recyclable, and often blended with other fabrics for added functionality. Polyester is frequently combined with spandex for stretch or with cotton for a breathable, lightweight feel. You’ll commonly see it in sports bras, leggings, and compression garments.
Nylon
Nylon, a synthetic polymer developed in the 1930s as a silk substitute, is strong and durable—perfect for activewear that takes a beating. It provides solid support, making it a great reinforcement material in blended fabrics. You’ll often find nylon in sports bras, cycling shorts, and compression gear. In cooler weather, it offers moderate moisture-wicking and low breathability, helping you retain warmth without trapping too much moisture. In warmer temps, nylon is sometimes treated with a durable water-repellent (DWR) coating to boost its moisture-wicking capabilities.
Spandex
Spandex, developed shortly after nylon, is known for its impressive stretch and recovery. It can stretch up to five times its original length and snap back to its original shape. When blended with polyester or cotton, spandex is ideal for workout clothing that supports a full range of motion—think leggings, yoga pants, compression shorts, and swimwear. However, because it’s manufactured with toxic chemicals, it might raise environmental or health concerns for some people.
Man-Made Cellulosic Fibers (MMCFs)
MMCFs are a newer category of fabrics made from wood pulp, often sourced from eucalyptus, beech, bamboo, and similar materials. While the process has been around for over a century, it’s gained popularity in recent years as a sustainable alternative to synthetic fabrics. MMCFs are strong, durable, moisture-wicking, quick-drying, biodegradable, and recyclable. Plus, they require less energy to produce, making them a smart choice for eco-conscious shoppers.
Other Key Features to Consider
Moisture-Wicking
This fabric feature pulls sweat away from your skin and pushes it to the fabric’s outer surface, where it evaporates quickly. This “capillary action” helps keep you dry during tough workouts.
Quick-Drying
Refers to how fast a fabric dries once it becomes wet—typically a strength of synthetic materials.
Sun Protection
Some athletic clothing is designed to block harmful UV rays. Look for items labeled UPF 30 or higher, especially for long runs under the sun.
Thumbholes
A small feature with a big impact—thumbholes in long sleeves help keep your hands warm during cool-weather workouts. Some styles even include built-in mittens.
Inner Liner
Some running shorts and pants come with built-in liners that are moisture-wicking and quick-drying to reduce chafing.
Compression
Tightly fitted clothing that helps increase blood circulation, improve oxygen flow, and reduce muscle fatigue. Compression gear is often linked to enhanced performance and recovery.
Insulation
Provides warmth without adding bulk. The level of insulation and type of fill can vary, so choose what suits your climate and activity level best.
Chafe-Free Seams
Flat, welded seams placed away from high-friction areas help reduce skin irritation during movement.
Mesh Vents
Look for mesh panels in heat-prone zones like your back, underarms, or sides. These areas help release heat and keep you cooler.
Reflectivity
Perfect for early morning or evening workouts—reflective accents enhance your visibility to drivers in low-light conditions.
There are countless options and features available, so be sure to consider how your workout gear will function for your specific needs. Don’t just go for the most stylish set—think about material, performance, and your training environment. The right clothing can make a big difference in your comfort and performance.
Happy running!!