Whether you’re designing custom team uniforms or upgrading your activewear, the fabric you choose will shape how you look, feel, and perform. Every thread affects comfort, breathability, flexibility, and even confidence on the field.
Understanding the different types of fabric helps athletes, teams, and coaches make smarter decisions. Some fabrics keep you cool and dry, others provide warmth or flexibility. Choosing the right one can make all the difference, both in comfort and in performance.
At Team Spirit Sports, we use a wide range of high-performance materials to help every athlete play their best. This guide explores the most common fabrics used in sportswear, how they differ, and how to choose the ideal one for your sport or activity.
Key Takeaways
- “Types of fabric” covers everything from natural cotton to high-performance synthetics like polyester and nylon.
- Sportswear fabrics prioritise moisture control, stretch, and durability.
- Blended fabrics often deliver the best balance of comfort and function.
- Sustainable materials like recycled polyester are reshaping the future of athletic wear.
- Team Spirit Sports offers expert support and design tools to help you choose the best fabric for your next custom project.
The Two Big Fabric Families: Natural vs Synthetic
Before diving into the most popular types, it helps to understand the two main categories of fabric: natural and synthetic.
Fabric Type | Origin | Key Traits | Sportswear Use |
Natural | Derived from plants or animals (cotton, wool, silk) | Soft, breathable, biodegradable | Everyday wear, casual uniforms |
Synthetic | Man-made fibres (polyester, nylon, spandex) | Durable, moisture-wicking, elastic | Performance sportswear, activewear |
Natural fabrics are known for their softness and comfort. Cotton, for example, is breathable and gentle on the skin but tends to absorb sweat and dry slowly, not ideal for high-intensity training.
Synthetic fabrics, on the other hand, were engineered to handle movement, moisture, and heat. They dry quickly, stretch easily, and retain their shape after multiple washes, making them the backbone of modern sportswear and team uniforms.
Main Types of Fabric Used in Sportswear
Let’s take a closer look at the most common sportswear fabrics and what makes each one special.
1. Polyester
Polyester is the workhorse of sportswear. It’s durable, lightweight, and excellent at wicking away sweat. That’s why it’s used in everything from professional jerseys to team training shirts.
Why it works:
- Strong, wrinkle-resistant, and colourfast.
- Moisture-wicking properties keep athletes dry.
- Ideal for sublimation printing, which keeps colours vibrant even after heavy use.
Polyester is also highly versatile, often blended with spandex or cotton for added comfort.
Learn more in our in-depth guide to Polyester Fabric for Sportswear.
2. Nylon
Nylon offers a silky, smooth finish and impressive elasticity. It’s popular for leggings, running shorts, and training jackets.
Why it works:
- Lightweight and quick-drying.
- Naturally stretchy, providing freedom of movement.
- Extremely durable, resistant to abrasions and wear.
Nylon remains one of the top choices for flexible, high-performance activewear.
Read our full article on Nylon Fabric for Sportswear.
3. Spandex / Elastane / Lycra
Known by several names, spandex, elastane, or Lycra, this fabric is all about flexibility. Even a small percentage (5–10%) blended into another fibre dramatically improves stretch and comfort.
Why it works:
- Provides exceptional elasticity and shape retention.
- Moves with the body, ideal for yoga, cycling, and fitted uniforms.
- Blends well with polyester or nylon for enhanced performance.
Spandex is rarely used alone; instead, it complements other materials to deliver the perfect athletic fit.
4. Cotton and Cotton Blends
Cotton is soft, breathable, and comfortable, a natural fibre many people love wearing off the field. However, it’s less effective at managing moisture compared to synthetics.
Why it works:
- Comfortable and non-irritating for sensitive skin.
- Offers a casual, classic look for team or corporate uniforms.
- When blended with polyester, it becomes more durable and faster-drying.
Cotton blends strike a balance between comfort and performance, making them popular for team uniforms and warm-up gear.
5. Fleece
Fleece is the go-to material for warmth without weight. Made from brushed polyester, it traps heat while remaining breathable, ideal for outdoor sports or cool-weather training.
Why it works:
- Provides insulation and comfort.
- Lightweight yet warm.
- Quick-drying and easy to care for.
Fleece is often used in hoodies, tracksuit tops, and outer layers designed for training sessions in cold conditions.
Explore our guide on Fleece Fabric for Sportswear.
6. Mesh Fabric
Mesh is designed for ventilation. You’ll often see it as panels under arms or on the back of jerseys.
Why it works:
- Maximises airflow and breathability.
- Reduces overheating during intense activity.
- Commonly paired with polyester for structure and comfort.
Mesh fabrics are a quiet hero in teamwear, keeping athletes cool without compromising design.
Key Fabric Properties That Define Performance
Not all fabrics are created equal, even within the same material type. Understanding key performance traits helps you select the best match for your sport or activity.
Property | What It Does | Best For |
Moisture-wicking | Draws sweat away from skin | Running, football, gym training |
Breathability | Allows air to circulate | Outdoor sports, hot climates |
Stretch & Flexibility | Moves with the body | Yoga, dance, cycling |
Durability | Withstands friction and washing | Team uniforms, contact sports |
Weight & Drape | Affects comfort and silhouette | Custom uniforms, leisurewear |
Texture & Feel | Impacts comfort and look | Everyday wear, promotional apparel |
Choosing a fabric isn’t just about how it feels in your hand, it’s about how it performs under pressure.
Choosing the Right Fabric for Your Sport or Activity
Different sports demand different performance qualities. Here’s how to match fabric to function:
Activity | Ideal Fabric | Why |
Team sports (soccer, rugby, basketball) | Polyester + Spandex | Breathable, colourfast, and flexible for movement |
Gym training & running | Nylon + Elastane | Lightweight and quick-drying |
Outdoor training | Fleece or Polyester Blends | Keeps warmth while managing sweat |
Casual uniforms & workwear | Cotton Blends | Comfortable, easy to wear, and visually polished |
When designing custom gear, it’s worth considering:
- Climate: Humid conditions need breathable fabrics.
- Intensity: High-motion sports need stretch and flexibility.
- Maintenance: Synthetic fabrics are low-maintenance and long-lasting.
Sustainability in Sportswear Fabrics
As the sportswear industry evolves, so does the demand for eco-friendly fabrics. Many brands, including Team Spirit Sports, are exploring sustainable options like:
- Recycled polyester: Made from PET bottles, offering the same durability as virgin polyester.
- Organic cotton: Grown without synthetic fertilisers or pesticides.
- Bamboo and Tencel blends: Naturally soft and biodegradable.
These materials help reduce environmental impact while maintaining comfort and quality. The shift toward sustainable sportswear proves that performance and responsibility can go hand in hand.
How Fabrics Affect Customisation and Printing
The type of fabric you choose also affects how your design appears on the finished product. Some materials absorb ink beautifully; others are better for heat-based printing.
- Polyester: Best for sublimation, colours stay bright and don’t fade.
- Cotton: Ideal for screen printing, smooth finish and rich colours.
- Blends: Work well for heat transfer or embroidery, depending on composition.
Understanding the relationship between fabric and print method ensures your teamwear looks sharp, professional, and built to last.
Read our guide on Types of Shirt Printing to find the best method for your chosen fabric.
Final Thoughts: Bringing Your Fabric Choice to Life
Each type of fabric plays a unique role in sportswear, from the moisture-wicking strength of polyester to the comfort of cotton blends. Choosing the right one can elevate your team’s performance, style, and unity.
At Team Spirit Sports, we design and produce high-quality custom teamwear and workwear made from performance-driven fabrics tailored to your sport.
Ready to see your design come to life? Explore our 3D Design tool and visualise your next uniform before it’s made.
FAQs
1. What is the best fabric for sportswear?
Polyester and nylon blends are the most popular for sportswear because they’re lightweight, durable, and moisture-wicking. They keep athletes dry and comfortable during intense activity.
2. Is cotton good for activewear?
Cotton is breathable and soft but not ideal for heavy workouts since it absorbs moisture and takes longer to dry. However, cotton blends can be used for light training or casual teamwear.
3. What is the difference between polyester and nylon in sportswear?
Polyester resists shrinking and holds colour well, while nylon is smoother and slightly more flexible. Both are synthetic and excellent for high-performance sportswear.
4. What fabric is best for hot weather sports?
Lightweight, moisture-wicking materials like polyester mesh or bamboo blends work best as they allow airflow and help regulate body temperature.
5. What’s the best fabric for winter or cold-weather sportswear?
Fleece, brushed polyester, and thermal blends are great options because they trap warmth while keeping sweat away from the skin.
6. How do I care for my sportswear fabrics?
Wash in cold water, avoid fabric softeners, and air dry when possible. Heat can damage elastic fibres like spandex and reduce lifespan.