Quick-Dry Clothing: Does It Really Work?

The warm weather has everyone wanting to get outside and get active. Being outside in the heat is great, but it can also leave you feeling pretty sweaty. There are many options to stay cool on even the hottest days, one of which is quick-dry clothing. Does quick-dry clothing really work, though? We're here to answer that and more.

1. What is quick-dry clothing made of?

The most common types of fabrics used to make quick-dry clothing are nylon and polyester. Some other fabric choices include mesh, cotton, and merino wool, although they aren't as effective at keeping you dry as nylon and polyester.

2. Does quick-dry clothing really keep you dry?

Quick-dry clothing definitely keeps you drier than typical fabrics cotton, wool, linen, and silk. The key is to choose synthetic fabrics that are specifically-designed to wick moisture away from the body, while also air-drying fast.

3. How long does it take for quick-dry clothing to dry?

Polyester doesn't absorb much water, so it's one of the fastest-drying fabrics. In the sun and breeze outside, most polyester fabrics will dry within an hour. Indoors, where less circulation is available to dry fabrics, clothing will dry completely within 2 to 4 hours.

Nylon is similar to polyester, but it has a little stretch to it. Since most nylon products are blended with another fabric, it can take a little longer to dry. Nylon generally dries within 4 hours.

When you think of wool, you think heavy and warm, but merino wool is actually incredibly lightweight. It does absorb more liquid than polyester and nylon do, so it takes a little longer to dry- usually 1-2 hours outdoors or 3-5 hours indoors.

4. Why isn't cotton considered a quick-dry fabric?

Cotton is lightweight, but the material is also made to soak up moisture. For this reason, it takes a long time to dry. Those that work outside a lot or exercise frequently likely avoid cotton when performing physical activities because it gets very heavy when wet, clings to the body easily, and feels very uncomfortable when you're sweating.

You'll find plenty of quick-dry clothing options on our website for all of your outdoor and exercise needs. Our quick-dry clothing will keep you cool and dry while also having you looking stylish. Enjoy physical activity without feeling sweaty and sticky by wearing quick-dry clothing.