If you are wanting to keep fit this summer it is crucial that you wear the correct clothes during your workout/activities. The right clothing for exercising will help you get more out of it while keeping you cool and comfortable. Below you will find the benefits of quick dry, moisture wicking clothing, what clothing is best for specific activities and where you can find the most suitable gear for you.
What does moisture wicking mean?
You’ve most likely heard of fabrics that ‘wick away moisture’ but you may not know what that means. Wicking fabric pulls moisture from the body to the outside of the shirt (or other piece of moisture wicking clothing) where it can be easily evaporated. Moisture wicking materials will cool the body a little faster than moisture absorbing materials, and are best worn in situations where it is important for sweat to leave the body quickly.
Which fabrics are moisture wicking and how do they work?
Moisture wicking fabrics have synthetic fibres such as Nylon or Polyester, and any fabric that has been treated with a solution to prevent the absorption of water. Both of these fabrics are water resistant because they are made from materials with a certain chemistry that is like plastic. Instead of the fibre absorbing the water, it sits in droplets on the fibre’s surface and moves around the fabric by running along the weave. Ultimately, the water droplets reach the outside of the fabric where, if exposed to air, they evaporate.
Here are a few more examples of fabrics that wick moisture:
- Bamboo
- Polypropeylene
- Lycra
- Tencel
We’ll help you find the right clothing for specific activities:
Hiking
When you hike you want to be wearing clothes that are made of synthetic materials that will keep you dry as you start to work harder and sweat more. The best materials are soft, lightweight and moisture wicking.
- Pants – Should be made of quick-drying, durable fabrics such as Nylon. Pants are best worn if you expect any drop in temperature. They also keep your legs protected from hazards such as poison ivy or other allergenic plants.
- Shorts – Give you ultimate freedom and are cooler than pants so are perfect for a low-altitude summer hike.
- Rain Jacket – Weather conditions can change quickly when hiking through different altitudes. So a waterproof, breathable rain jacket is important for any hike.
- Hat – A hat is the best way to keep the sun off your face. You should have a full brimmed, water-repellent and breathable hat.
- Layers – Always assume that the temperature could drop significantly, especially if you’re going up in elevation. Use a 3 layer system.
- Lightweight garment that wicks moisture
- Light or medium weight fleece
- Outer shell jacket to keep out wind or rain
Running
When looking for suitable clothes to wear for running, cotton fabrics should definitely be avoided. As once it gets wet, it stays wet. It is a better choice to wear clothes made of a technical fabric with synthetic wicking material such as DryFit, Thermax, Coolmax and Polypropylene.
- Shirts – Avoid loose fitted shirts so your movements can stay free of possible restriction.
- Shorts – You want something light, soft and that allow airflow to avoid any rubbing or sore spots. Nylon shorts are ideal. Some runners prefer tight Lycra shorts, similar to ones worn by sprinters that provide support and prevent chafing.
- Leg Wear – Running tights are ideal if it’s cool. They are stretchy and supportive and prevent chafing.
- Jackets – Wind resistant, lightproof and showerproof jackets are the best for running. Lightweight active shell jackets are ideal.
Football
What you wear for any sport can impact your performance, comfort and safety. You want to dress correctly and have in mind the different and best clothes to wear for different weather conditions.
- Shirt – No matter the weather you want a lightweight t-shirt as when playing football you warm up quickly and want to ensure you stay cool over the course of a match.
- Shorts – Sport shorts are a definite when playing football. They need to be lightweight, elasticated and have a drawstring that holds them up.
- Base Layers – When playing in cold weather wearing a base layer is crucial. They are thin and lightweight but provide an incredible amount of warmth.
- Jacket – When playing in cold conditions a lightweight, waterproof jacket is ideal.
Cycling
The right cycling clothing can make you go faster by ensuring you don’t waste energy while you ride. Cycling gear is more aerodynamic than other sportswear as it fits closely with no spare fabric flapping in the breeze.
- Shorts – The most crucial part of cycling gear. Classic cycling shorts are made from stretchy Nylon or Lycra with a pad inside to cushion your bum.
- Jersey – Shaped like a t-shirt but made from wicking synthetic materials. Usually has a high neck to protect you from the sun and a zip at the front.
- Base Layer – Goes between your skin and your jersey. It helps move sweat away from your skin to your jersey. A light base layer will help keep you comfortable even in hot weather.
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