Data Bridge Market Research* shows that the demand for natural fibers is growing and will continue to rise. This is related to customers becoming more conscious of environmental impact, sustainability, and comfort during wear and prioritizing eco-friendly materials.
However, using natural fabrics during intensive workouts can have disadvantages, such as discomfort due to their lower moisture-wicking properties. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of using natural fabrics for activewear, highlight the best organic and eco-friendly synthetic fiber options, and discuss which athletic garments are best suited for these fabrics.
Pros and Cons of natural fabric usage for activewear
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What is the best solution for activewear?
Combining natural fibers with synthetic ones, such as cotton with spandex, allows you to benefit from the advantages of natural fibers, like breathability, while also gaining the essential stretch provided by spandex for activewear.
Best Fabrics and Blends with Natural Fibers for Activewear
Let’s explore the best natural fibers and blends with synthetic materials for activewear.
Wool/Tencel Blend:
A wool and Tencel blend combines the best of both fibers and offers excellent temperature regulation, moisture management, and comfort. Wool’s natural elasticity and Tencel’s strength make this blend durable and versatile, suitable for hiking and yoga activities.
Our pick: The Wool Jersey, made from a blend of wool, Tencel, and 4% spandex. Natural fibers offer lightweight comfort, breathability, and stretch. It is ideal for activewear tops, loungewear, and fashion garments.
Cotton
Cotton is a durable and breathable material, ideal for activewear due to its exceptional comfort and softness for the wearer.
Use cotton blends with spandex, polyester, or other synthetic material to add flexibility to your activewear.
Our picks:
- Cotton Jersey, made from 100% cotton
- Terry Cloth Interlock Fabric blends 41% Cotton, 53% Polyester, and 6% Spandex.
Synthetically Derived Eco-Friendly Options
Graphene fibers
Graphene fibers are synthetic, integrating graphene—a material from graphite—into fiber production. These fibers are known for their exceptional strength, durability, thermal conductivity, and lightweight nature. While not natural, they’re ideal for high-performance activewear, especially in sports requiring durability and flexibility.
Coffee Fibers
Coffee fibers, made by recycling coffee grounds and blending them with polymers like polyester, offer natural odor control, UV protection, and moisture management, making them an eco-friendly choice for casual or low-impact activewear.
Our picks:
- Graphene fiber athletic mesh from 100% Graphene Yarn. This lightweight, durable fabric offers UV protection, two-way stretch, and anti-microbial properties. Perfect for performance tops, golf, tennis, pickleball wear, fashion apparel, and medical wear.
- Coffee fiber jersey, made from 100% Coffee Yarn, offers lightweight, UV protection and two-way stretch. Its soft touch is complemented by moisture-wicking, anti-microbial, and quick-dry features, making it perfect for activewear, beachwear, and fashion garments.
Modal/Rayon/Tencel:
While often grouped with natural fibers due to their cellulose base, Modal, Rayon, and Tencel are synthetically derived through a chemical process:
- Rayon: The first generation of these fibers, Rayon, is made from wood pulp through a chemical-intensive process that transforms the cellulose into a fiber. It is known for its softness and drapability but is less durable and sustainable than newer alternatives.
- Modal: A second-generation fiber, Modal is processed similarly to Rayon but from beech tree pulp. It is more durable, softer, and less prone to shrinkage, making it ideal for luxury activewear.
- Tencel (Lyocell): This material is produced using a closed-loop process that recycles almost all solvents. Made from sustainably sourced wood, such as eucalyptus, Tencel is strong, soft, and has excellent moisture management properties, making it a premium choice for eco-friendly activewear.
Our picks:
- Lenzing Modal Ponte is an eco-friendly certified blend of 64% Lenzing Modal, 30% Nylon, and 6% Spandex. This breathable fabric features four-way stretch and moisture-wicking properties, making it a versatile choice for casual and activewear.
- 8×5 Modal Fabric, made from 84% Modal and 6% Spandex. This breathable fabric offers two-way stretch and a smooth texture, making it perfect for leggings and jackets.
When to Choose Natural vs. Synthetic Activewear
Choosing between natural and synthetic fibers depends on the activity and the wearer’s preferences:
- High-Intensity Workouts: For running or HIIT, synthetic fibers like polyester or nylon with spandex are ideal due to their moisture-wicking and durability.
- Casual or Low-Impact Activities: For yoga or walking, natural fibers offer enhanced comfort, breathability, and sustainability.
- Eco-Conscious Choices: If sustainability is a priority, options like Tencel or wool blends provide a balance of performance and environmental responsibility.
As the activewear market evolves, the demand for natural fibers and synthetically derived eco-friendly options is expected to grow, driven by consumer preferences for sustainability and comfort. While synthetic fibers remain dominant for high-performance needs, the rise of natural and innovative synthetic fibers offers exciting possibilities for those seeking a more eco-friendly and comfortable option for low-impact activities and casual fashion.
Pine Crest Fabrics offers a diverse range of high-quality synthetic and natural fabrics to meet our customers’ evolving needs in the activewear market.
Explore our activewear fabric collection and new Made-to-Order eco-friendly collection and find the best solution for your next fashion line. Need help? Contact us, and our fabric expert will provide the best suitable fabrics.
