Bamboo viscose or polyester

Short answer: Polyester dries fastest and is strongest, but it does not absorb moisture and can start to smell sooner. Bamboo viscose absorbs moisture from the skin and feels softer. The choice depends on whether you train hard or want everyday comfort.

Moisture is handled differently

Polyester moves moisture along the fibre without absorbing it. Bamboo viscose takes the moisture into the fibre first and then releases it. That gives two different feelings on the skin. Polyester can feel dry on the outside but clammy next to the body. Feel the difference in the most popular pieces for men.

Odour over time

Bacteria and oils from the skin settle on the surface of polyester fibres and stay there, even after a normal wash. That is why a polyester top can smell again after an hour of wear. Cellulose fibres like bamboo viscose release odour more easily in the wash, which you notice in bamboo underwear for men.

Strength and lifespan

Polyester is stronger and wears more slowly. It handles hard use, friction and many washes without changing much. Bamboo viscose needs gentle care at 40 degrees with air drying to keep its shape. The same goes for the rest of men's clothing.

How it feels on the skin

Polyester can feel smooth, but also a little synthetic, especially when you sweat. Bamboo viscose is softer and drapes more heavily, and many find it more pleasant over longer periods. The difference is greatest in clothes you wear all day.

Temperature and warmth

Because polyester does not absorb moisture, sweat can stay between fabric and skin. That can feel warmer and clammier when you sit still after being active. Bamboo viscose takes up some of the moisture, so the skin feels drier on warm days and in heated rooms.

When polyester wins

For hard training, where you sweat a lot and want the clothes dry quickly, polyester is hard to beat. It dries in a short time and handles many washes. Running, cycling and gym classes are typical examples. Wash training clothes soon after use.

When bamboo wins

For everything else, many people prefer bamboo viscose for the comfort. The workday, travel, weekends and nights are times when a soft, calm fabric matters more than quick drying. It also helps that odour lets go more easily in the wash.

How to care for both

Wash both at 40 degrees and avoid too much detergent, so no residue stays in the fibres. Polyester benefits from being washed soon after use. Bamboo viscose should air dry rather than go in the dryer. Keep them apart in the wash if you can.

Frequently asked questions

What is best for hard training

Polyester, because it dries fastest and can take a lot. For anything other than hard training, many people prefer bamboo viscose for its comfort and soft feel on the skin.

Why does polyester smell more

Because bacteria and oils bind to the fibre surface and are not fully rinsed out at 40 degrees. The odour can therefore return shortly after you put the top on.

Is polyester warmer

It often feels warmer, because the fibres do not absorb moisture and sweat stays between fabric and skin. Bamboo viscose takes up some of it and feels drier.