Sweat Wicking – How Moisture Transport Works in Clothing

Short answer: Sweat wicking means that the fabric moves moisture away from your skin and out towards the surface, where it evaporates. Sweat wicking bamboo clothing does exactly that: the fibres pass the sweat on instead of holding on to it, so you stay dry and comfortable.

How moisture transport works in clothing

When you sweat, the moisture has to get away from your skin before you feel clammy and cold. Fabrics with good moisture transport draw the sweat into the fibres and on to the outside of the fabric, where the air can evaporate it. Bamboo viscose is naturally good at this, because the fibres both take up and release moisture quickly.

Why cotton falls short

Cotton soaks up sweat like a sponge and releases it slowly again. The result is a wet shirt clinging to your back. That is why many people switch to a bamboo T-shirt for men or a bamboo T-shirt for women for everyday wear, and the difference is clearest on a hot day.

Where does sweat wicking matter most?

Closest to the body: underwear, socks and nightwear. If you sleep hot, you can read how bamboo bedding and nightwear help, and for exercise we have a guide to bamboo for training.

Frequently asked questions

What does sweat wicking clothing mean?

It means that the fabric moves sweat away from your skin and out to the surface, where it can evaporate, instead of the moisture staying against your body.

Is bamboo clothing sweat wicking?

Yes, bamboo viscose is very good at moving moisture and is among the best nature based materials for keeping your skin dry.

What is the difference between absorbing and wicking sweat?

Cotton absorbs sweat and holds on to it, so the clothes get heavy and clammy. A sweat wicking fabric like bamboo viscose passes the moisture on, so it evaporates.