In our fast-paced world, finding clothes that look good and feel good can be quite a feat. You want to look your best, yet you also want to be as comfortable as possible, especially if you sweat a lot. You may feel like you’re on a never-ending search for the most breathable fabrics, but it doesn’t have to be that way.
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Fabrics that don’t show sweat are often breathable to help prevent sweat. Breathable fabrics allow air to flow through them easily, which speeds up sweat evaporation and keeps you cool. Moisture wicking fabrics also keep you comfortable and dry when sweating; not all breathable fabrics are moisture wicking and vice versa though.
Here we look at the nine most breathable fabrics to help you understand more of how the materials in your wardrobe may be helping (or hurting) your sweat issues. This list of breathable fabrics can serve as a guide when you purchase new pieces too.
This post was originally published in November and was updated for accuracy in February .
You probably already know that cotton is breathable. In fact, cotton is one of the most breathable fabrics, and offers comfortable and fashionable options in both casual and professional attire. It is not only breathable but also durable and soft. It is an easy-care option, which means no costly dry cleaning. If you find you sweat less when you are cooler, cotton is a good option.
Downside: Cotton tends to absorb moisture instead of wicking it away from your skin. If you tend to sweat regardless of the temperature, it’s not the best choice for you.
Breathable fabrics allow air to flow through them easily, which speeds up sweat evaporation and keeps you cool
Polyester is a popular fabric used in workout clothing and activewear because it is lightweight and breathable. But is polyester breathable, really? Yes – polyester is breathable; it’s lightweight and water-repellent so moisture on your skin evaporates instead of soaking into the fabric. Does polyester make you sweat, or remove sweat? Technically, no. But because it’s not absorbent, the sweat doesn’t absorb into the fabric.
Downside: Polyester tends to retain odors and can even contribute to bacteria growth, which attributes to lingering odor after washing.
Given that Nylon is often used in activewear, you might wonder: is nylon breathable? It varies in breathability based on how the nylon is made or blended. Generally though, nylon wicks away moisture and it also dries quickly should you break a sweat.
Downside: Nylon tends to retain odors.
When checking the labels of your clothes, you might notice that rayon is used a lot. This synthetic fiber has become common in clothing, but is rayon actually breathable – or will it make your sweat problems worse? Rayon doesn’t cause you to sweat because it offers moderate breathability and has a silky texture. For the most part, rayon also drapes nicely and dries quickly if you do sweat.
Downside: Rayon doesn’t wick away moisture and requires dry cleaning.
This is the go-to summer fabric, especially for casual clothes. It requires minimal care yet offers excellent breathability due to its large fibers and open weaves.
Downside: Linen tends to absorb moisture instead of wicking it away. Linen also dries slowly so avoid it if you anticipate an exceptionally sweaty day.
Silk is a popular fabric choice for underwear and higher-end casual summer wear. Given that it's not used for insulation, you might wonder: is silk breathable? While described as luxurious, silk is also lightweight and breathable. That makes it a great fabric for both under layers and on hot days.
Downside: Silk tends to retain odor, and it requires hand-washing.
This is a form of high wet modulus rayon. It’s popular for undergarments because it is exceptionally soft and durable. It is a natural fabric made of beech tree wood pulp, which is why it’s so breathable. Micro modal is 50 percent more absorbent than cotton so perspiration is wicked away from the skin, leaving you feeling dry.
Downside: Micro modal is prone to issues with pilling and stretching, which is why it is most often used for underwear and pajamas.
Merino wool is usually thought of as a winter fabric, but it is also used in summer apparel. Why? Because it breathes well, wicks away moisture and doesn’t retain odor.
Downside: Merino wool is less durable than other fabrics, and some people find it itchy, even with today’s smoother weaves. It also may require hand-washing and air-drying to retain its shape.
Breathable fabrics help you look your best, even when you are sweating the most.
Chambray is like denim. It is a tightly woven cotton fabric, which means it is sweat-absorbent yet breathable. It is lighter weight than denim, which makes it a good choice for summer wear.
Downside: Chambray is not as durable as denim and tends to easily wrinkle.
Today's apparel features many breathable fabrics, ranging from all natural cotton to synthetic polyester. Each type of fabric offers an advantage if you experience situational or even excessive sweating.
If you have hyperhidrosis or excessive situational sweating, there are many clothing options to help you manage. Sweat-wicking fabrics, anti-odor fabrics, breathable fabrics, and sweat absorbing clothing make living with sweat easier than ever.
Temperature shifts (especially above 80 degrees Fahrenheit) always bring to the fashion forefront colorful outfits and lightweight, breathable fabrics to withstand the heat. So when it comes to finding the proper garments for warmer weather, the right fabric can make or break down your plans, especially when it's searing hot outside.
While white tank tops may be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of ubiquitous spring/summer wardrobe pieces, there are other cooling fabrics you can embrace during humid, hot weather. Shop TODAY talked to experts to spill the must-have textiles and material combinations that will keep you dry and avoid breaking out into a sweat the moment you step outside of your home.
According to Billy Draddy, EVP and creative director of Summit Golf Brands, one of the best options to wear in hot temperatures — regardless of material — is a light-colored fabric. "Dark colors absorb light from the sun and the heat that comes along with it."
Material-wise, a man-made fiber like nylon will keep you feeling pleasant. "Cotton will keep you cooler but once you start sweating, whether it be working out or while out in extremely warm temperatures, fabrics made out of man-made fibers will keep you more comfortable," he adds. "These fabrics are also hydrophobic so they don’t absorb your sweat."
Also, if you can keep a dry fabric up against your skin, you'll inevitably remain cooler. "Water is a conductor of temperature and just like when you jump in the pool at the end of the summer and you feel the cool breeze up against your skin, the same thing happens in reverse with the heat," Draddy mentions. "If you have a wet shirt on and high, high temperatures, you will feel even hotter than the outside temperature."
As a fashion expert and designer, Suzanne Vinnik breaks down the pros and cons of the most ubiquitous materials on the market.
One factor to keep in mind is the fabric's texture. "Think about if you were going to warm up something with your hand. You wouldn’t just put your fingertips down; you would put the full surface area of your hand down on what you were trying to warm," says Draddy. "So, the opposite is true when you’re trying to stay cool. The less surface area that's hitting your skin, the cooler you will feel. Textured knits, although indeterminable to the naked eye, have less of the fabric sitting up against your skin and therefore, will keep you cooler."
The silhouette of a piece also plays an element in the fabric's comfort. "The best thing you can do to keep cool is to find clothes that are cut away from the body, especially when dealing with humidity," mentions Vinnik. When it comes to her designs, she focuses on varying lengths that cut away from the body and hemlines that create ventilation.
"During the summertime, you’ll find a lot of loose dolman sleeve capes and tops, kaftans and summer dresses that are not clingy to the body," she adds.
Size: XXS-XXL | Colors: 10 | Material: 100% cotton
Short sleeves are a must-have piece in your closet during elevated temperatures. This Uniqlo tee features a sturdy material that dries up quick and feels ultra soft during warm days. I tested last year and enjoy the simplicity of this white T-shirt which looks flattering on most body frames. It's one of those affordable pieces that feel ultra luxe when paired with a classic garment.
Size: XXS-XXL | Colors: 10 | Material: 62% rayon, 33% linen, 5% nylon
Associate editor Shannon Garlin loves this shirt for hot weather for its breathable construction. “I have this shirt in both white and black, and it's my go-to top for hot summer days, whether I'm in the office or meeting up with friends for brunch. I like that it's loose-fitting and lightweight, and you can really style it with different bottoms. I've worn it with jean shorts and then nicer trousers to work," she says.
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Size: XS-XXL | Colors: 8 | Material: 90% cotton, 10% spandex
Buck Mason's tanks are must-have essentials in my summer wardrobe. They're extremely comfortable, breathable and a great basic to build up an outfit. These tanks have a slim fit silhouette plus a hidden thread chain where you can snap your bra straps. Now, that's a game-changer for me.
Size: XXS-4X | Colors: 7 | Materials: 47% cotton, 48% modal, 5% spandex
If you’re planning outdoor activities, this tee will keep you dry and ready to move around in the heat. The top is made with a cotton/modal blend that feels soft and offers a flattering fit. Whether you wear it for lounging or working out, it provides enough breathing room to move around.
Size: XS-XL | Colors: 15 | Materials: 100% cotton
One thing I won’t compromise during summer is comfort. The piece comes in 15 different neutral hues and bright colors, and it's made from 100% cotton that feels soft and relaxed. While the top has a short length, this one pairs perfectly with high-waisted pants or jeans.
Size: XS-XXL | Colors: 5 | Materials: 50% viscose from bamboo, 41% cotton, 9% elastane
Get maximum sun protection with this polo shirt that offers UPF 50+ protection and a sensitive fabric composition. The mix of cotton and viscose provides a gentle feel that people with sensitive skin will appreciate.
Size: XS-XL | Colors: 7 | Material: 100% European flax
With a laidback aesthetic and comfortable fit, these linen shorts are a wardrobe staple to keep available at all times. The shorts are made from 100% European flax and breathable fabric that is heat-regulating and soft. Also, it features side pockets and a drawstring for easy adjustment.
Size: 23-34 | Colors: 9 | Materials: 95% cotton, 5% recycled cotton
I recently got this pair from Levi's and it is definitely becoming my favorite for summer. Since I tend to chafe, I barely wear shorts. However, this design features a longer inseam that feels comfortable and doesn't rub my skin. I have paired it with tank tops and button-down shirts for an elevated look. It's also lightweight and has more of a loose silhouette for easy styling.
Size: 24-34 | Colors: 2 | Materials: 55% linen, 45% viscose
While shorts are a go-to for steamy days, these long pants will keep you fresh during the heat. The design feels more elevated and functional when you need something comfortable for the office or a night out. It comes in two neutral hues and features belt loops. I usually wear these with a vest or button-down shirt when going to work.
Whether you wear them at the beach or for lounging, the pants' baggy silhouette will feel airy and breathable throughout the day.
Size: XS-XXL | Colors: 5 | Materials: 86% polyester, 14% spandex
If you're going to be out in the sun for a long period of time, these shorts are perfect to protect your skin. These are made from a FreeDry technology that is moisture-wicking and features UPF 50+ sun protection. The material is lightweight and easy to pull on for added comfort. Also, it comes in four different colors for an added pop of color.
Size: XXS-XXL | Colors: 11 | Material: 100% nylon
If you’re looking for a soft alternative to denim shorts, opt for this lightweight pair. Associate editor Sierra Hoeger says she loves them because they're great for travel and are super flattering.
“I live in these shorts in the summertime. It helps that they come in a wide variety of patterns and colors, so then I can wear them multiple days in a row. I first wore them when kayaking back home and they got a little wet, only to dry off within minutes thanks to the nylon fabric they’re made out of,” she says.
Size: 0-20 | Colors: 7 | Materials: 53% recycled polyester, 38% Lenzing® modal, 9% elastane
This style is designed for ladies on the move. The shorts are made from a Softstreme fabric technology that features a smooth "peach-fuzz" texture. Plus, the four-way stretch will give you that extra flexibility while still adjusting the shorts with its shock-cord string. It also comes with pockets for accessible storage and comfort.
Size: 00-16 | Colors: 4 | Materials: 55% European flax linen, 43% viscose, 2% elastane
Production associate Audrey Ekman says these linen pants are a must-have for warmer weather because of their breathable, loose and flattering fit. "The barrel silhouette might not be for everyone, but I really like having some extra room in the leg and still being able to show off my footwear (I'm also a fan of the brand's Way High Barrel Jeans, which have a similar shape). These are easy to wear anywhere, from work to errands, and I can even see myself wearing them to the beach this summer!," says Ekman.
Size: XS-XXL | Colors: 25 | Materials: 75% nylon, 25% spandex
Look chic while stretching on the mat with this flexible exercise dress. This style features a removable bra and compressive shorts with pockets that are snug to your body and offer support. Despite the short length, this dress will give you coverage while working out. The slim fit and stretchy material is moisture-wicking and will keep you dry while working out.
Sizes: S-3XL | Colors: 20 | Material: 87% polyester, 13% spandex
A bold print is great for warmer days and this one is designed with a combination of UPF 50+ and moisture-wicking fabric, which experts recommend. The design comes in multiple colors and can be easily worn from day to night.
Size: XXS-XL | Colors: 1 | Materials: 83% cotton, 10% nylon, 7% spandex
If you're looking for something sophisticated yet casual, this dress is the one. I recently got this and it is on my packing list for my upcoming tropical vacation. At first, the dress looks like it will be uncomfortable — but once on, it feels breathable and lightweight. The rings aren't heavy and the lining hits around for coverage.
Size: XXS-XL | Colors: 3 | Material: 90% cotton, 10% elastane
Get all-day comfort with this T-shirt dress that features short sleeves and a high neckline. It's the perfect option for a last-minute, one-and-done outfit and pairs well with cowboy boots, white sneakers or sandals.
Size: XS-XXL | Colors: 2 | Materials: 88% polyester, 12% elastane
Whether you’re playing tennis or running errands, this exercise dress is flexible and ideal for low-impact activities. It features all the necessary components to survive the heat including moisture-wicking properties, a built-in biker short for comfort and a ball pocket to store supplies for pickleball or other sports.
Size: XS-XXL | Colors: 4 | Materials: 90% cotton, 10% spandex
This tank dress is my go-to for last-minute changes. I opt for this design whenever I need to run to the market, a meeting or to the office; it's an easy throw-on dress. It has a flattering fit, feels comfortable and doesn't constrict the body. Plus, the cotton material feels smooth and perfect for days when you know sweat is underway.
We selected items based on affordability and material composition while considering expert tips and recommendations. We also chose items that are highly rated, breathable and easy to care for. Additionally, we asked Shop TODAY editors for their favorite clothes for warm weather.
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