9 Reasons Why Stretch Fabric is the Best Fabric for Men's Activewear

From its origins in the early 20th century to its widespread use today, stretch fabric has become a staple in the wardrobes of athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and everyday men alike!

So, why do so many people prefer it for their activewear needs?

Read our guide to men’s activewear fabrics to find out everything you need to know.

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What is Stretch Fabric?

The most obvious question people have when picking clothing for their workouts is; what fabric to use for activewear? Stretch fabric is the answer!

As the name suggests, this type of fabric has the ability to stretch and return to its original shape. This elasticity is usually achieved by incorporating elastic fibres into the fabric blend. These fibres allow the fabric to stretch significantly and provide comfort, flexibility, and a snug fit. Just what you want when you’re working out or constantly on-the-go!

Types of Stretch Fabric

What is the ideal fabric for activewear? There are a number of stretch fabrics for you to choose from. Here are some of the most common types:

Spandex (Lycra or Elastane)

Spandex is the most widely known stretch fibre, offering excellent elasticity. It can stretch up to five times its original length and return to its shape without losing integrity.

Stretch Cotton

Stretch cotton combines the softness and breathability of cotton with the elasticity of spandex. This blend is comfortable and allows for a full range of motion, making it ideal for everyday wear and light exercise.

Stretch Polyester

Stretch polyester is known for its durability, quick-drying properties, and resistance to wrinkles and shrinking. It provides a balance of comfort and performance, making it suitable for high-intensity activities.

Stretch Nylon

Stretch nylon is lightweight, strong, and abrasion-resistant. It is commonly used in swimwear and sportswear because of its durability and ability to retain shape after prolonged use in water or during vigorous activities.

Stretch Fabric Market Size

The global market for stretch fabric has seen substantial growth in recent years. While a lot of the research that does exist relates to the spandex market, it does help us to get a better understanding of the industry as a whole.

Back in 2021, the global spandex market was valued at $8484.9 million.
Between now and 2030, it’s expected to grow at a rate of 9.24%.

This surge is driven by the increasing demand for comfortable and functional clothing, especially in the activewear sector.

9 Reasons Why Stretch Fabric is the Best Fabric for Men’s Activewear

So, what are the benefits of stretch fabric? Let’s take a look at nine reasons it’s the best choice:

1. Unmatched Comfort

Comfort is key when it comes to activewear, and stretch fabric excels in this area! The fabric’s elasticity allows it to move with your body, providing a snug yet comfortable fit. This means no more chafing or irritation during workouts.

Stretch fabrics often incorporate materials like cotton and polyester, providing a soft feel against the skin.
Many stretch fabric garments feature seamless designs, reducing friction and enhancing comfort.
The ability of stretch fabric to conform to various body shapes ensures a personalised fit for all users.

2. Enhanced Flexibility

When you’re engaged in physical activities, your clothing needs to keep up with you. Stretch fabric offers superior flexibility, allowing you to stretch, bend, and twist with ease.

This is especially beneficial for activities that require a wide range of motion, such as yoga, pilates, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT).

The flexibility of stretch fabric ensures that you can perform at your best without feeling restricted.

Highlights include:

Four-way stretch – Many stretch fabrics can stretch in four directions, providing comprehensive flexibility.
Freedom of movement – Ideal for dynamic sports like basketball and football, where unrestricted movement is crucial.
Resistance to deformation – Stretch fabrics return to their original shape, maintaining their flexibility over time.

3. Breathability

Staying cool and dry during a workout is essential, and stretch fabrics often come with breathability in mind. Many stretch materials are designed to wick moisture away from your skin, allowing sweat to evaporate quickly.

Features that help breathability include:

Moisture-wicking technology – Fabrics with built-in moisture-wicking properties draw sweat away from the body.
Mesh panels – Some stretch fabric garments include mesh panels for added ventilation.
Quick-drying – Stretch fabrics typically dry faster than traditional materials, enhancing comfort.

4. Durability

Activewear needs to be durable to withstand the rigours of frequent use and washing. Stretch fabric is known for its resilience. It can endure intense physical activity and regular washing without losing its shape or functionality.

5. Improved Performance

The right clothing can significantly impact your performance, and stretch fabric is designed with this in mind. The snug fit of stretch fabric supports your muscles, enhancing circulation and reducing muscle fatigue.

Highlights include:

Muscle support – Compression elements in stretch fabrics support muscles, enhancing performance and recovery.
Reduced vibration – Stretch fabric minimises muscle vibration, which can reduce fatigue.
Enhanced blood flow – Improved circulation from compression can aid in quicker recovery post-workout.

6. Versatility

Stretch fabric is incredibly versatile and can be used for a wide range of activewear, from shorts and leggings to tops and jackets. This versatility makes it suitable for various sports and activities, including gym workouts, running, team sports, and outdoor adventures.

No matter what type of exercise you prefer, you’re likely to find stretch fabric activewear that meets your needs.

7. Style and Fit

Activewear made from stretch fabric not only performs well but also looks great.

The fabric conforms to your body, providing a sleek and stylish appearance. This tailored fit enhances your physique, boosting your confidence during workouts.

Plus, stretch fabric retains its shape, ensuring that your activewear continues to look good, wash after wash.

With various designs and colours available, you can find stretch fabric activewear that matches your personal style.

8. Ease of Care

Taking care of your activewear shouldn’t be a hassle, and stretch fabric makes it easy. Most stretch fabric garments are machine washable and can be dried without special treatments.

9. Eco-Friendly Options

As sustainability becomes increasingly important, many manufacturers are producing stretch fabrics using eco-friendly practices and materials.

Brands like Dockers® are incorporating recycled fibres and sustainable production methods into their activewear lines.

This means you can choose stretch fabric activewear that not only performs well but also aligns with your environmental values.

How to Choose the Best Stretch Fabric

Here are some quick tips:

Consider the activity – Different activities require different levels of stretch and support. For high-impact sports, opt for fabrics with high spandex content.
Check breathability – Look for moisture-wicking properties and breathability, especially for intense workouts.
Evaluate durability – Ensure the fabric is durable enough to withstand frequent washing and heavy use.
Test the stretch – Make sure the fabric offers four-way stretch for maximum flexibility and comfort.
Look for eco-friendly options – Choose fabrics made from recycled materials or produced through sustainable practices.
Feel the fabric – Make sure it feels soft and comfortable against your skin.
Check the care instructions – Opt for fabrics that are easy to care for and maintain their shape and performance over time.
Assess fit and style – Ensure the fabric provides a good fit and complements your style preferences.

Sustainable Approaches to Buying Activewear

When it comes to purchasing activewear, considering the environmental
impact is increasingly important.

Look for recycled materials – Many brands now offer activewear made from recycled materials, such as recycled polyester or nylon.
Choose eco-friendly brands – Brands like Dockers® are committed to sustainable practices. Look for companies that prioritise environmental responsibility in their production processes.
Quality over quantity – Investing in high-quality activewear that lasts longer reduces the need for frequent replacements, ultimately lowering your consumption and waste.
Care for your clothes – Follow the care instructions to extend the life of your activewear. Proper washing and drying can help maintain the fabric’s elasticity and durability.

Stretch Fabric is the Best Fabric for Men’s Activewear

So, there you have it: everything you need to know about stretch fabric and why it’s the best choice for men’s activewear! Next time you upgrade your workout wardrobe, make sure you look for stretch fabric for the best look and fit.

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Article author: Joan Calabia
Joan Calabia operates as the Digital Lead for Dockers® International at Levi Strauss & Co. Joan’s experience spans the intricacies of marketing operations to creating immersive consumer experiences. He continues to lead the brand direction adapting to the new generation of casual consumers in our era, while maintaining the California cool lifestyle that is heritage to the brand.