Polyamide Elastane Fabric vs Polyester Elastane Fabric: Which One Is Right for You?
Faik A.
Last Update a year ago
Polyamide elastane fabric and polyester elastane fabric are two of the most popular synthetic fabrics in the world. They are both known for their durability, stretchiness, and wrinkle resistance. However, there are some critical differences between the two fabrics.
Polyamide elastane fabric is made from a combination of polyamide and elastane fibers. Polyamide is a strong, durable fibre that is often used in outdoor gear and sportswear. Elastane is a stretchy fibre that is often used in leggings, yoga pants, and other activewear.
Polyamide elastane fabric is typically more expensive than polyester elastane fabric. However, it is also more durable and has a better recovery rate. This means that polyamide elastane fabric will not lose its shape as easily as polyester elastane fabric.
Polyester elastane fabric is made from a combination of polyester and elastane fibres. Polyester is a strong, durable fibre often used in clothing and home textiles. Elastane is a stretchy fibre that is often used in leggings, yoga pants, and other activewear.
Polyester elastane fabric is typically less expensive than polyamide elastane fabric. However, it is not as durable and does not have as good of a recovery rate. This means that polyester elastane fabric is more likely to lose its shape over time.
The following table compares the key properties of polyamide elastane fabric and polyester elastane fabric:
| Property | Polyamide Elastane Fabric | Polyester Elastane Fabric |
| Durability | Durability More durable | Less durable |
| Stretchiness | Very stretchy | Very stretchy |
| Wrinkle resistance | Wrinkle resistant | Wrinkle resistant |
| Price | More expensive | Less expensive |
| Recovery rate | Better recovery rate | Worse recovery rate |
Which Fabric is Right for You?
As an activewear manufacturer, I know you’re always looking for the best fabrics to keep your customers comfortable and performing at their peak. Two of the most popular choices for activewear are polyamide elastane and polyester elastane. But which one is right for you?
Polyamide Elastane:Pros:
- Super soft and comfortable: Polyamide has a naturally soft feel, making it ideal for next-to-skin wear.
- Excellent breathability: Polyamide wicks away moisture and dries quickly, keeping you cool and dry during your workout.
- Durable and abrasion-resistant: Polyamide can withstand wear and tear, making it perfect for high-intensity activities.
- Shape retention: Polyamide retains its shape well, even after repeated washing.
Cons:
- Less affordable than polyester: Polyamide is a more premium fabric, so it will be reflected in the price of your garments.
- Not as good at wicking moisture as polyester: While still breathable, polyamide doesn’t wick moisture quite as efficiently as polyester.
- Can be prone to snags: Polyamide’s smooth surface can be susceptible to snags from sharp objects.
Pros:
- More affordable than polyamide: Polyester is a more cost-effective fabric, making it a good choice for budget-conscious consumers.
- Excellent moisture-wicking: Polyester is the king of moisture-wicking fabrics, pulling sweat away from your skin and keeping you dry.
- Wrinkle-resistant: Polyester doesn’t wrinkle easily, so your garments will always look fresh.
- Durable and colourfast: Polyester is resistant to fading and wear and tear.
Cons:
- Less breathable than polyamide: Polyester can trap heat and make you feel stuffy in hot weather.
- Not as soft and comfortable as polyamide: Polyester can feel rough against the skin, especially for people with sensitive skin.
- Less environmentally friendly: Polyester is a synthetic fabric that is not biodegradable.
It really depends on your needs and preferences. If you’re looking for the softest, most breathable fabric for high-intensity workouts, polyamide elastane is the way to go. However, if you’re on a budget and prioritize moisture-wicking and affordability, polyester elastane is a good choice.
Here’s a quick cheat sheet to help you decide:
- Choose polyamide elastane if:
- You prioritize comfort and softness.
- You do high-intensity workouts in hot weather.
- You’re willing to pay a premium for a high-quality fabric.
- Choose polyester elastane if:
- You’re on a budget.
- You sweat a lot during your workouts.
- You want a fabric that is wrinkle-resistant and easy to care for.
Ultimately, the best way to decide is to try both fabrics and see which one you prefer. You can also look for blends of polyamide and polyester, which offer the benefits of both fabrics.
No matter which fabric you choose, make sure it is high-quality and has a good percentage of elastane (at least 5%) for optimal stretch and recovery.
I hope this article has helped you learn more about polyamide elastane and polyester elastane fabrics and decide which one is right for your activewear line.
Additional tips:- Consider the climate you live in when choosing a fabric. If you live in a hot climate, you’ll want a more breathable fabric like polyamide.
- Think about the types of activities you’ll be using the garments for. For high-intensity workouts, you’ll need a fabric that can wick away moisture and keep you cool.
- Read the care label carefully and follow the instructions for washing and drying your garments.
By taking these factors into consideration, you can choose the perfect fabric for your activewear and help your customers reach their fitness goals in comfort and style.
Don’t forget:
The best fabric for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for a durable, stretchy fabric that will not lose its shape, then polyamide elastane fabric is a good choice. If you are looking for a less expensive fabric that is still stretchy and wrinkle-resistant, then polyester elastane fabric is a good option.