Bamboo viscose versus linen

Short answer: Linen is the coolest fibre in strong heat and softens over the years. Bamboo viscose is soft from day one and creases markedly less.

How they cool

Linen is stiff and holds the fabric away from the skin so air can circulate. Bamboo viscose sits close and moves heat away through contact. Both cool, but in two different ways, and linen wins when it is very hot and dry.

Creasing

Linen creases heavily and does so deliberately as part of its character. Bamboo viscose creases little and drapes smoothly. If clothes need to look tidy without ironing, bamboo is the easy choice. See bamboo shirts for women.

How it feels on the skin

New linen feels rough and softens with every wash, often over several years. Bamboo viscose is soft immediately and changes little. For underwear against the skin, bamboo is more comfortable. See bamboo underwear for women.

Durability

Linen is one of the strongest natural fibres and lasts for many years. Bamboo viscose is weaker, especially when wet. See bamboo clothing for women.

Frequently asked questions

Which is better in a heatwave

Linen as a loose shirt on the outside and bamboo viscose as a thin layer against the skin.

Does bamboo viscose not crease at all

It does, a little, but far less than linen and cotton.

Why is linen so stiff to begin with

Because the fibre is long and straight. It softens through many washes and through wear.