Polyester is an extremely versatile fabric that is used to make a wide variety of apparel and textiles. It is also one of the most commonly used fabrics in swimwear. While it is not as supple as silk or cotton, polyester offers superior resistance to chlorine, mildew and other chemicals that shorten the lifespan of most other materials. It also has a high UPF rating to protect the skin from UV rays. While it is not as elastic as spandex, incorporating elastane into a polyester fabric can make for form-fitting and streamlined swimwear.
While many people still prefer to wear clothes made with natural fibers, it is virtually impossible today to avoid the use of synthetics. For example, the average garment will contain a blend of wool and polyester, while clothing made from cotton is only worn by 2% of the population.
Synthetic fabrics are also more durable than their natural counterparts, which makes them ideal for swimwear. In addition, they usually come in a wider range of styles and textures than natural fabrics. This includes ribbed textures, which can be created in a number of different ways. One of the most common ways to produce a ribbed texture is to alternate knit and purl stitches, which creates the ridges that give it its distinctive look.
Another type of synthetic fabric used in swimwear is nylon, which has good durability and stretch that makes it a popular choice for women's bathing suits. However, it is not as resistant to chlorine as polyester and needs to be rinsed in cool water after each use. Nylon is also typically more expensive than polyester, but some manufacturers now offer recycled versions that are a less costly alternative to traditional nylon.
Nylon, which is sometimes blended with elastane, has excellent strength and durability and offers a nice amount of stretch. It is a good choice for activewear and outerwear, but it does not have the same level of UV protection as polyester or elastane.
While some people associate the word 'nylon' with plastic, it can actually be a very eco-friendly fabric, especially when it is 100% post-consumer recycled. It is also a very durable fabric that retains color well, making it ideal for swimwear.
SOLID MATT SWIMWEAR NYLON FABRIC YT024