Loose or close fitting
Short answer: A loose fit gives air and freedom of movement, while a close fit gives support, calm and a more streamlined look. Choose by activity, weather and the layers you have over it.
Fit affects comfort more than fabric
A good fabric in the wrong fit still feels wrong. The fit decides how much air there is between clothes and skin, how much the fabric rubs and how it looks under other clothes. Loose and close are two ends of a scale, and most people are best served by something in between in some situations. See it as a trade off between freedom and calm.
Loose fit: air and freedom
Loose clothes let the air move, so you do not get as warm, and they give room to bend and stretch. They suit warm days, home and relaxed situations. The drawback is that the fabric can gather in folds and ripple under other clothes, and it can catch on trousers or a belt. See bamboo shorts for men for an airy fit in warm weather.
Close fit: support and calm
Close clothes lie still against the body and rub less on other clothes, which is pleasant under trousers and during activity. They give a streamlined look and fit under layers where loose clothes would bulge. The drawback is that they can pinch if the size is too small, and can feel warm when the air cannot move. See bamboo long johns for a close layer on cold days.
When to choose which
The layers decide a lot. Closest to the body a close fit is often best, because the layer does not rub and does not form folds. On the outside a loose fit is practical, because there is room for the layers below. For sport and cold days close is good, for summer and rest loose is good. It is about choosing by the needs of the day. See bamboo underpants for men, where both loose and close cuts are found.
How to tell whether it fits
Clothes that fit leave neither red marks nor hang like a sack. You should be able to lift your arms, sit and bend without feeling fabric that pinches or pulls. Try walking, sitting and reaching up when you try clothes on. Viscose from bamboo often has some stretch, so it moves with you, but a piece that is too small never becomes comfortable. If you are between two sizes, choose by which layer it will serve as.
Our recommendation by situation
Choose a loose fit for summer, rest, loungewear and outer layers. Choose close fitting for layers next to the body, sport, cold days and under other clothes. A good rule is close at the bottom and loose on the outside, then you get both calm and air. Wash at 30 to 40 degrees and avoid the tumble dryer so the fit lasts over time.
Frequently asked questions
Is loose clothing always more comfortable
No. Loose clothing can rub and bulge under other clothes. Close clothing can be more comfortable next to the body if the size is right.
Should underwear fit close
Usually yes, so it does not shift or ripple. But it must not pinch or leave deep marks.
How do I know the size is right
You should be able to move freely without feeling tightness and without the fabric hanging. Try sitting, bending and reaching up.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
