Embroidery and Wicking

Embroidery and Wicking Back to Blog Contents

As spring approaches, (thank goodness) it won't be long before outdoor activities are in season again. Instead of trying to stay warm we'll be thinking about breathability. Back in the day, the good stuff was cotton and polyester was passe’. Boy, how have things changed!

Pique’ knit was an attempt to create more surface area so that perspiration would evaporate more quickly, and it was more effective than a jersey or flat knit. Today, textile fabricators and apparel manufacturers have learned how to take advantage of polyester’s tendency to repel moisture so that when you sweat it’s "wicked" to the surface so it can evaporate.

Different Manufacturers, Different Names

Several manufacturers have trademarked their own name for "wicking" or performance fabrics. Generically, you’ll see it referred to as dry fit, wicking, moisture wicking and all kinds of other names. Nike calls it Dri-Fit, adidas chose Climalite. Different name, same effect.

Although shirts are the predominant style, nearly every classification we offer will have some type of performance or wicking fabric. These fabrics work great for all kinds of headwear. Jackets are another garment that benefit from properties that move any dampness to the outside surface so it can evaporate.

If your next embroidery project has any outdoors applications, particularly in warm weather, take a look at a dry fit product. We have them listed as separate categories under shirts. For other classifications, you might want to search using the term "wicking" or "performance". You might want to try "wicking flexfit", for instance.

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