Bamboo or polyester for training

Short answer: Polyester dries fastest and is the right choice for hard training. Bamboo feels softer, smells less and suits light training and everyday wear better. That is why many people keep a bit of both and choose based on the session.

During the workout

Polyester moves moisture along the fibre and dries while you move. Bamboo viscose absorbs moisture first and gets heavier along the way. In a short, calm session you will hardly notice, but on a long, sweaty one it makes a difference. See the thin styles in bamboo sweatpants for men.

When bamboo gets heavy

Once bamboo viscose has taken up a lot of sweat, the fabric sits heavier on the body and dries more slowly than polyester. On a cold day, a wet layer can also make you chilly when you stop. That is why bamboo is not the best choice for long runs or intervals.

After the workout

A polyester top starts to smell sooner, because bacteria bind to the fibre along with oils from the skin. Even after washing, the odour can return once the top warms up. Bamboo releases odour more easily in the wash, see bamboo underwear for men to wear under training clothes.

Comfort against the skin

Bamboo viscose chafes less with repeated movement, because the surface is smooth and soft. You notice it on long walks, on the bike and in exercises where fabric rubs the skin again and again. Polyester can feel slick, but also more synthetic. See the rest of the range for men.

Running and hard training

For running and intervals, polyester or a blend is the most common choice, because it dries fast and stays light. For short runs, bamboo works well, especially in cool weather. If you are unsure, think about how much you sweat and how long you will be out.

Strength training and yoga

In strength training, yoga and stretching, the intensity is lower, and you often stand or lie still in between. Drying time matters less here and comfort matters more. A soft fabric that follows your movement without pulling is often the most comfortable. Many people choose bamboo for this kind of training.

Everyday and light activity

A walk, cycling to work or a quiet day in the garden does not call for proper sportswear. Here bamboo gives you a soft, comfortable layer that you can keep on for the rest of the day. That is one reason many prefer bamboo to polyester for light activity.

Washing training clothes

Wash training clothes soon after use, so the sweat does not settle. Bamboo is washed gently with a mild detergent and air dried. Polyester does well turned inside out. Avoid fabric softener for both, because it traps odour and makes the fabric worse at moving moisture.

Frequently asked questions

What should you wear for running

Polyester or a blend for long runs, because it dries quickly. For short runs, bamboo works well, especially in cool weather when you do not sweat much.

What should you wear for strength training

Bamboo for the comfort. The intensity is lower and drying time matters less, so a soft fabric that follows your movement is often the most comfortable choice.

Why does polyester smell after washing

Because oils and bacteria settle in the fibre surface and do not rinse out completely. The odour can therefore return as soon as the top warms up.