Running Clothes and Bamboo – What Works and What Does Not?
Short answer: Bamboo works well as running wear for short and easy runs, where a T-shirt, underwear and socks keep you dry and fresh. For long, hard runs in the rain, technical running gear is still best, because bamboo gets heavier than polyester when soaked. The honest answer is: wear bamboo close to the body and technical gear on the outside.
Where bamboo works for running
On runs of up to about an hour in dry weather, bamboo is comfortable, because it moves sweat away and usually does not smell sour afterwards the way polyester can. The fabric is soft and smooth against the skin, so it rarely chafes, even when you sweat. That makes bamboo a good choice for easy runs and everyday jogging.
A T-shirt for easy runs
A bamboo T-shirt is a good choice for men who run easy sessions in dry weather. It feels light on the body and can be worn for the run and for the rest of the day. Choose a fit that sits close without squeezing, so the fabric can move moisture away from the skin and does not flap in the wind.
Activewear for women
For women there is bamboo activewear for women, which suits easy runs, walks and lighter training well. The fabric is soft and follows the body's movements without restricting. Many also wear it for yoga and pilates, so it is a versatile choice if you train in several different ways during the week.
Where bamboo is not the right choice
If the fabric gets soaked by rain or very heavy sweat, it holds more water than technical polyester and feels heavier. For long runs in bad weather, a technical running top on the outside is therefore still the best choice, ideally with bamboo underneath. It is not a question of quality, but of what the material is made for.
A sports bra that stays put
Close to the body, bamboo almost always wins. A good bamboo sports bra is soft on the skin, does not chafe and helps keep the skin dry during the run. Choose a size that sits firmly without squeezing around the ribcage, and test it by jumping a little on the spot before you decide.
Socks that keep feet dry
Your feet work hard on a run, and wet socks increase the risk of blisters. A pair of bamboo tennis socks is short, stays put in the shoe and keeps the foot dry. Avoid socks with coarse seams at the toes, and change into a dry pair after the run so your feet can breathe and recover.
Layering for the weather
Think in layers when the weather changes. On the inside, bamboo that keeps the skin dry and comfortable. On the outside, a light technical running jacket when it rains or blows. On cold days you can add a mid layer. That way you get the best of both materials: the softness of bamboo and the protection of technical gear.
Washing running clothes
Wash running clothes after every run at 30 to 40 degrees on a gentle programme, without fabric softener, which leaves a film on the fibres and makes them worse at moving moisture. Let the clothes air dry instead of using a tumble dryer. That way shape and softness last longer, and everything is ready for the next run. See also bamboo for training.
Frequently asked questions
Can I run in a bamboo T-shirt?
Yes, for short and easy runs in dry weather a bamboo T-shirt works well. For long runs in the rain, a technical running top on the outside is the better choice.
Why does bamboo get heavy in the rain?
Bamboo viscose can hold more water than technical polyester. When the fabric is completely soaked, it feels heavier, which is why technical gear belongs on the outside in rain.
Which parts of my running kit should be bamboo?
The pieces closest to the body: underwear, sports bra and socks. That is where softness and dry skin matter most, whatever the weather is doing outside.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
