Qualities of Outdoor Sports Fabrics

Outdoor sports fabrics are designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor activities, such as hiking, running and cycling. These fabrics can be made using both natural and synthetic materials. However, there are a few key qualities that all Outdoor sports fabrics must possess in order to perform optimally. These fabrics need to be durable, breathable and have a low environmental impact.

Durability is a crucial characteristic of outdoor fabrics as many sports and outdoor activities involve contact with rocks or extreme weather conditions, which can cause rips in the fabric. Additionally, many of these fabrics are used in high-impact sports and activities, such as mountain biking or running, which can result in the fabric tearing. Therefore, these fabrics are built to be strong and hard-wearing, making them resistant to abrasions and rips.

Breathability is another essential feature for Outdoor sports fabrics, as this allows moisture to escape from the body, keeping the wearer dry and comfortable. This is especially important for high-impact sports, where perspiration can build up quickly. For this reason, many of these fabrics are woven to be highly breathable. Some fabrics even use special membranes that are breathable while being waterproof.

Many of these fabrics are also lightweight, as this can help with both comfort and performance. This is particularly true for fabrics like ripstop nylon, which has a tough reinforcement pattern that makes it resistant to ripping and tearing, while remaining lightweight. This is the same technology that makes parachutes, tents and sleeping bags so durable.

A few of these fabrics are also incredibly sustainable. For example, merino wool is an excellent choice for outdoor clothing as it warms in the cold and cools in the heat, while being super soft and easy to care for. Additionally, it dries much faster than cotton and does not absorb unpleasant odours. Other sustainable options include Spectra Fiber, which is being used in tactical gear by law enforcement and the military but is now starting to appear in more outdoor gear, such as gloves, base layers, bike apparel and backpacks.

With so many different options to choose from, it is important to carefully consider the fabric you are choosing for your project before purchasing. Take the time to read the labels and understand what each fabric offers, as this can help you decide which is right for your next project. To help with this, we at Phifer have developed the online Fabric Visualizer tool, where you can layer your favourite Phifer fabrics to see how they would look together. You can then purchase the fabric you love with confidence!