Bamboo viscose versus hemp

Short answer: Hemp is strong, coarse and softens over the years. Bamboo viscose is soft from the start and far more comfortable against the skin.

Two plant fibres taking different routes

Hemp is used as it is, meaning as a stiff fibre from the plant's stem. Bamboo viscose is dissolved chemically and spun again into a smooth fibre. That is why the two feel completely different even though both come from plants.

Strength versus comfort

Hemp is among the strongest textile fibres and lasts for many years. Bamboo viscose is weaker but smoother. For outerwear and bags hemp wins, for underwear bamboo wins clearly. See bamboo underwear for women.

Cooling

Hemp holds the fabric away from the skin and lets air circulate, like linen. Bamboo viscose cools through contact. In dry heat hemp is pleasant, in humid heat bamboo is better. See bamboo t-shirts for women.

Softness over time

Hemp starts rough and softens over many washes. Bamboo viscose is soft from day one. If you want comfort immediately, the choice is easy. See bamboo clothing for women.

Frequently asked questions

Is hemp more environmentally friendly

Hemp grows with little water and not much spraying, but turning bamboo into viscose is a chemical process.

Does hemp crease a lot

Yes, much like linen. Bamboo viscose creases markedly less.

Can the two be blended

Yes, and the blend gives a fabric stronger than pure viscose and softer than pure hemp.