Breathable Clothing – What Does It Actually Mean?

Short answer: Breathable clothing lets air and moisture pass through the fabric, so your body can get rid of heat and sweat. Breathable bamboo clothing is among the best nature based choices, because bamboo viscose has an open structure that both ventilates and moves moisture.

What does breathable clothing actually mean?

Your body regulates its temperature by giving off heat and moisture. If your clothes block that, you quickly feel hot and clammy. A breathable fabric works like a vent: the air can circulate and the moisture can escape.

Why bamboo clothing is breathable

The fibres in bamboo viscose are smooth and loosely structured, so there is room for air and moisture to move. Combined with good moisture wicking, that means a bamboo undershirt or a pair of bamboo boxer shorts feel airy, even when they sit close. Read also about bamboo and temperature regulation.

Choose breathable where it counts

Start where the clothes touch your skin the most: underwear for women, T-shirts for men and nightwear. If you sleep hot at night, a breathable material makes a noticeable difference to your sleep.

Frequently asked questions

What makes clothing breathable?

Breathable clothing lets air circulate and moisture escape through the fabric, so heat and sweat are not trapped against your skin.

Is bamboo clothing more breathable than cotton?

Yes, bamboo viscose has an open fibre structure that lets air pass through and moves moisture better than cotton at the same time.

When does breathability matter most?

When the clothes sit close to your body, such as underwear, T-shirts and nightwear, and on warm days or during physical activity.