Textile Science for Performance Apparel
Expert-defined terms from the Certificate in Sportswear Design and Performance Technology course at London School of Planning and Management. Free to read, free to share, paired with a professional course.
Acetate – A semi‑synthetic fiber made from cellulose acetate #
Related terms: rayon, polyester. Example: Lining for lightweight jackets. Application: Provides smooth drape and low weight. Challenges: Low moisture‑wicking ability and susceptibility to UV degradation.
Anti‑chafe treatment – Chemical or mechanical finish that reduces frictio… #
Related terms: softening agents, lubricants. Example: Silicone spray on inner thigh panels. Application: Enhances comfort during long runs. Challenges: Maintaining durability after multiple washes.
Anti‑microbial finish – Finish that inhibits bacterial growth on fabrics #
Related terms: silver ions, biocides. Example: Silver‑nanoparticle coating on compression tights. Application: Controls odor in high‑intensity workouts. Challenges: Cost, environmental impact, and potential resistance.
Aqueous dyeing – Dyeing process using water‑based solutions #
Related terms: reactive dyes, exhaust dyeing. Example: Reactive dyeing of cotton jersey. Application: Enables vibrant colors for team kits. Challenges: Requires precise pH control and wastewater treatment.
Aramid – High‑strength, heat‑resistant synthetic fiber (e #
G., Kevlar). Related terms: p‑aramid, twaron. Example: Reinforced panels in protective sportswear. Application: Provides cut resistance for mountain biking apparel. Challenges: Higher cost and limited elasticity.
Backcoating – Application of a polymer layer to the reverse side of a fab… #
Related terms: lamination, film backing. Example: PU coating on the back of a wind‑breaker. Application: Increases water resistance while keeping front breathability. Challenges: Reducing stiffness and ensuring weld integrity.
Barrel stretch – Measurement of a fabric’s ability to recover after being… #
Related terms: elongation, recovery. Example: 150 % Barrel stretch in elastane blends. Application: Predicts fit stability in compression garments. Challenges: Maintaining stretch after repeated laundering.
Base weight – Mass of fabric per unit area, expressed in gsm (grams per s… #
Related terms: fabric density, thickness. Example: 120 Gsm polyester mesh. Application: Determines garment warmth and durability. Challenges: Selecting appropriate weight for climate and activity level.
Biodegradability – Ability of a material to decompose by natural processe… #
Related terms: compostable, eco‑friendly fibers. Example: PLA (polylactic acid) fibers in training leggings. Application: Reduces landfill waste for disposable sportswear. Challenges: Performance trade‑offs and limited recycling infrastructure.
Blended fabric – Textile composed of two or more fibers combined #
Related terms: core‑spun, dual‑yarn. Example: 80 % Polyester / 20 % elastane jersey. Application: Balances durability, stretch, and moisture management. Challenges: Uniform dye uptake and differing shrinkage rates.
Bonded interface – Layer where two distinct fabrics are joined by adhesiv… #
Related terms: laminate, seam bonding. Example: Nylon‑outer / TPU‑inner laminate in waterproof jackets. Application: Provides barrier protection without stitching. Challenges: Delamination under stress and limited recyclability.
Breathability – Ability of a fabric to allow water vapor to pass through #
Related terms: vapour transmission rate, air permeability. Example: Microporous PU membrane in running jackets. Application: Keeps athletes dry in variable climates. Challenges: Balancing breathability with waterproof performance.
Capillary action – Movement of liquid through narrow spaces due to surfac… #
Example: Moisture wicking from skin to outer layer in polyester blends. Application: Drives sweat away from the body. Challenges: Designing pore geometry for optimal transport.
Carbon fiber – Strong, lightweight reinforcement made from carbon atoms a… #
Related terms: composite, CF‑reinforced. Example: Carbon‑wrapped panels in high‑performance cycling shorts. Application: Increases stiffness while reducing weight. Challenges: High cost and difficulty integrating with soft textiles.
Chlorination – Chemical finishing that improves fabric smoothness and shr… #
Related terms: mercerization, cross‑linking. Example: Light chlorination of polyester for reduced pilling. Application: Enhances hand feel of performance shirts. Challenges: Potential reduction in tensile strength if over‑treated.
Coated fabric – Fabric with a continuous polymer layer applied to one or… #
Related terms: PU coating, PVC coating. Example: PU‑coated polyester for rain‑proof training jackets. Application: Provides water repellency and wind resistance. Challenges: Maintaining flexibility and breathability.
Compression – Mechanical pressure applied by garment to improve circulati… #
Related terms: gradient compression, support wear. Example: 20‑30 MmHg compression socks. Application: Enhances venous return during recovery. Challenges: Achieving uniform pressure without restricting motion.
Conductive thread – Yarn that can transmit electricity, often containing… #
Related terms: e‑textiles, smart fabrics. Example: Silver‑plated nylon thread in heart‑rate monitoring shirts. Application: Enables embedded sensors and data transmission. Challenges: Corrosion resistance and wash durability.
Core‑spun yarn – Yarn where a core filament (often elastane) is surrounde… #
Related terms: spandex core, blend yarn. Example: Elastane‑core polyester yarn in swimwear. Application: Provides stretch while retaining surface texture. Challenges: Core breakage and uneven surface finish.
Cross‑linking – Chemical process that creates bonds between polymer chain… #
Related terms: curing, resin finish. Example: DMDHEU cross‑linking on cotton for wrinkle resistance. Application: Increases fabric dimensional stability in performance polos. Challenges: Formaldehyde emissions and reduced softness.
Cut‑and‑sew – Traditional garment construction where fabrics are cut to p… #
Related terms: seam bonding, flatlock stitching. Example: Seam‑stitched paneling on a soccer jersey. Application: Allows complex designs and easy repair. Challenges: Seams can cause friction and chafing.
Dead‑flat finish – Low‑profile surface treatment that reduces sheen and t… #
Related terms: matte finish, softening. Example: Dead‑flat coating on cycling jerseys for aerodynamic smoothness. Application: Reduces drag and visual glare. Challenges: Maintaining durability under abrasion.
Denier – Unit of linear mass density for fibers, expressed as grams per 9… #
Related terms: filament thickness, tex. Example: 30 Denier polyester monofilament in mesh panels. Application: Determines filament strength and hand feel. Challenges: Selecting appropriate denier for breathability vs. Durability.
Dyed‑through – Color that penetrates the entire thickness of a fabric, no… #
Related terms: solution dyeing, pigmented fibers. Example: Solution‑dyed nylon for vibrant race bibs. Application: Ensures colorfastness after extensive washing. Challenges: Limited to certain fiber types and may affect elasticity.
Elastic recovery – Ability of a stretched fabric to return to its origina… #
Related terms: elongation, recovery rate. Example: 90 % Recovery in elastane‑blended leggings. Application: Maintains fit over long training sessions. Challenges: Loss of recovery after repeated laundering.
Elasticity – Measure of a material’s ability to deform and return #
Related terms: stretch, modulus. Example: 20 % Stretch in a polyester‑elastane blend. Application: Provides unrestricted movement in yoga apparel. Challenges: Balancing elasticity with structural support.
Electrospinning – Technique that creates nanofibrous mats by drawing a po… #
Related terms: nanofiber, non‑woven. Example: Electrospun polyurethane membranes for moisture‑management inserts. Application: Produces ultra‑light, high‑surface‑area layers for rapid drying. Challenges: Scale‑up and uniformity control.
Embroidery – Decorative stitching used for logos and identification #
Related terms: heat‑transfer, screen printing. Example: Machine embroidery of team crest on a performance polo. Application: Durable branding for competitive sports. Challenges: Adding weight and potential for snagging.
End‑use testing – Evaluation of fabric performance under realistic condit… #
Related terms: field trials, lab testing. Example: Sweat‑wicking test on a prototype running shirt. Application: Validates design decisions before mass production. Challenges: Replicating varied environmental factors.
Finishing – Post‑production processes that modify fabric properties #
Related terms: mechanical finish, chemical finish. Example: Antistatic finishing on polyester for indoor sportswear. Application: Reduces static buildup during gymnastics. Challenges: Adding steps that may affect cost and sustainability.
Flame retardant (FR) – Treatment that reduces flammability of fibers #
Related terms: halogenated FR, phosphorus FR. Example: FR‑treated cotton for firefighting training gear. Application: Meets safety standards for high‑risk activities. Challenges: Potential impact on breathability and skin comfort.
Fluid dynamics – Study of how air and moisture move around and through ga… #
Related terms: aerodynamics, ventilation. Example: Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling of a cyclist’s jersey. Application: Optimizes cut placement for reduced drag. Challenges: Translating simulation data into manufacturable designs.
Fleece – Knit fabric with a brushed surface that traps air for insulation #
Related terms: microfleece, polar fleece. Example: 200 Gsm polyester fleece lining in a winter training jacket. Application: Provides warmth without excessive weight. Challenges: Managing moisture buildup and bulk.
Fiber length – Length of individual fibers, influencing yarn strength and… #
Related terms: staple length, filament. Example: 38 Mm staple length cotton for high‑strength yarns. Application: Determines suitability for high‑stress seams. Challenges: Short fibers can cause uneven yarn quality.
Fiber morphology – Physical shape and cross‑section of fibers (e #
G., Hollow, trilobal). Related terms: cross‑section, shape factor. Example: Hollow‑core polyester for increased loft in insulation layers. Application: Enhances thermal performance while maintaining low weight. Challenges: Controlling consistency during extrusion.
Fiber tensile strength – Maximum stress a fiber can withstand before brea… #
Related terms: breaking force, modulus. Example: 4 CN/tex for high‑modulus polyester used in compression wear. Application: Ensures durability under high stretch. Challenges: Balancing strength with elasticity.
Fit grading – Systematic sizing adjustments to accommodate different body… #
Related terms: size chart, pattern grading. Example: Graded patterns for XS‑XXL performance shorts. Application: Provides consistent fit across a product line. Challenges: Maintaining proportionality for technical fabrics that behave differently when stretched.
Flatlock stitching – Seam technique that creates a low‑profile, flat seam #
Related terms: seam bonding, overlock. Example: Flatlock seams on a rugby jersey to reduce chafing. Application: Increases comfort in high‑friction zones. Challenges: Requires precise tension control to avoid seam puckering.
Flocking – Application of short fiber particles onto a surface to create… #
Related terms: nap, surface finish. Example: Flocked inner layer of a ski jacket for extra insulation. Application: Adds softness and improves heat retention. Challenges: Fiber shedding and added weight.
Foil laminate – Thin metallic film bonded to fabric for reflective proper… #
Related terms: thermal reflectance, metalized coating. Example: Aluminum foil laminate on a running vest for heat retention. Application: Keeps athletes warm in cold environments. Challenges: Reducing stiffness and ensuring breathability.
Friction coefficient – Measure of resistance when two surfaces slide agai… #
Related terms: slip resistance, abrasion. Example: Low friction coefficient of nylon‑spandex blends in inner thigh panels. Application: Minimizes chafing during prolonged motion. Challenges: Maintaining low friction after repeated laundering.
Gore – Triangular or wedge‑shaped fabric inserts that add shape and mobil… #
Related terms: paneling, bias cut. Example: Side‑gore inserts in a compression shirt for enhanced arm freedom. Application: Improves ergonomic fit in dynamic sports. Challenges: Seam integration and pattern complexity.
Heat‑transfer printing – Method where pigment is transferred onto fabric… #
Related terms: DTG, sublimation. Example: Heat‑transfer logos on a polyester training tee. Application: Provides vibrant colors with quick turnaround. Challenges: Limited durability on high‑stretch fabrics.
Impact resistance – Ability of a material to absorb energy from a sudden… #
Related terms: shock absorption, protective padding. Example: EVA foam inserts in a basketball protective sleeve. Application: Reduces injury risk during high‑impact activities. Challenges: Balancing thickness with freedom of movement.
In‑line stitching – Seam that follows the direction of fabric grain #
Related terms: bias stitching, reinforced seam. Example: In‑line stitching on the shoulders of a training jacket. Application: Provides strength where tension aligns with grain. Challenges: Requires careful alignment to avoid seam distortion.
Jacquard knitting – Computer‑controlled knitting that creates intricate p… #
Related terms: knitwear, textured knit. Example: Jacquard‑knit mesh for ventilated cycling jerseys. Application: Enables localized ventilation without cutting. Challenges: Higher production cost and limited fabric stretch in certain zones.
Knitting tension – The force applied to yarn during knitting, affecting f… #
Related terms: warp tension, loop formation. Example: Adjusted tension for a tight, high‑performance compression knit. Application: Controls garment compressive properties. Challenges: Over‑tension can cause yarn breakage; under‑tension leads to loose fabric.
Knit structure – Arrangement of loops (e #
G., Jersey, rib, interlock) that defines fabric behavior. Related terms: loop pattern, fabric elasticity. Example: 1×1 Rib knit for cuffed sleeves. Application: Provides elasticity and recovery in performance cuffs. Challenges: Selecting structure that balances breathability and support.
Lamination – Process of bonding two or more layers together, often with h… #
Related terms: bonded interface, film layer. Example: Gore‑Tex lamination of a waterproof shell. Application: Creates a barrier while preserving fabric flexibility. Challenges: Ensuring uniform adhesion and recyclability.
Laser cutting – Use of a focused laser beam to cut fabric with high preci… #
Related terms: digital cutting, edge finish. Example: Laser‑cut perforations for ventilation panels in a running vest. Application: Enables complex shapes without fraying. Challenges: Heat‑sensitivity of synthetic fibers and potential edge melt.
Lift‑off finish – Mechanical treatment that raises the surface fibers to… #
Related terms: brushed finish, nap. Example: Lift‑off finish on the interior of a fleece jacket. Application: Improves comfort against skin. Challenges: Managing pile wear over time.
Lightweight – Descriptor for fabrics with low mass per unit area, facilit… #
Related terms: ultra‑light, high‑performance. Example: 45 Gsm polyester mesh used in sprinting shorts. Application: Minimizes drag and fatigue. Challenges: Maintaining durability and structural integrity at low weight.
Moisture vapor transmission rate (MVTR) – Quantity of water vapor that pa… #
Related terms: breathability, permeability. Example: 10 000 G/m²/24 h MVTR for a breathable membrane. Application: Quantifies drying performance of a rain jacket. Challenges: Balancing MVTR with water resistance.
Monofilament – Single, continuous filament yarn, often used for strength… #
Related terms: filament yarn, reinforcement. Example: 300 Denier nylon monofilament in a protective sports glove. Application: Provides puncture resistance. Challenges: Reduced flexibility compared with multifilament yarns.
Non‑woven fabric – Fabric formed by bonding fibers together without weavi… #
Related terms: meltblown, spunbond. Example: Polypropylene non‑woven used as a disposable training mat. Application: Offers lightweight protection and easy disposal. Challenges: Limited durability for long‑term wear.
Overlay – Additional fabric layer applied on top of a base material for f… #
Related terms: laminate, surface coating. Example: Reflective overlay on a running shirt for night visibility. Application: Enhances safety without affecting core performance. Challenges: Adhesion durability under sweat and motion.
Oxidation resistance – Ability of a material to resist degradation caused… #
Related terms: UV stability, weathering. Example: Antioxidant additives in polyester for UV‑exposed cycling jerseys. Application: Extends garment lifespan. Challenges: Additive migration and potential impact on hand feel.
Pattern grading – Process of scaling a base pattern to multiple sizes whi… #
Related terms: fit grading, size scaling. Example: Graded grading increments of 2 cm for torso length. Application: Ensures consistent fit across a size range. Challenges: Adjusting for stretch differences in technical fabrics.
Permeability – Measure of a fabric’s ability to allow fluids (air or wate… #
Related terms: air permeability, MVTR. Example: 150 Mm³/s/cm² air permeability of a mesh panel. Application: Determines ventilation capacity. Challenges: High permeability may compromise water resistance.
Phase‑change material (PCM) – Substance that absorbs or releases latent h… #
Related terms: thermal regulation, microencapsulation. Example: PCM‑infused microcapsules sewn into a training jacket. Application: Stabilizes skin temperature during fluctuating conditions. Challenges: Integration without adding bulk or stiffness.
Polyamide (Nylon) – Synthetic polymer known for high strength and abrasio… #
Related terms: PA6, PA66. Example: Nylon ripstop used in soccer cleats. Application: Provides durability in high‑stress zones. Challenges: Moisture absorption can affect drying speed.
Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) – Common polyester polymer used in fabri… #
Related terms: polyester, recycled PET. Example: 100 % PET jersey for a training shirt. Application: Offers good moisture management and dimensional stability. Challenges: Environmental impact of virgin PET production.
Polypropylene (PP) – Lightweight, hydrophobic polymer often used in non‑w… #
Related terms: thermal insulation, oil‑resistant. Example: PP non‑woven as a thermal liner in winter jackets. Application: Provides insulation without water absorption. Challenges: Low melt point limits high‑temperature processing.
Polyurethane (PU) – Versatile polymer used for coatings, laminates, and e… #
Related terms: TPU, PU coating. Example: PU‑coated polyester for waterproof breathables. Application: Combines water resistance with stretch. Challenges: Maintaining breathability and preventing cracking.
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) – Synthetic polymer used for waterproof coatings… #
Related terms: vinyl, PVC coating. Example: PVC‑coated rain poncho for outdoor training. Application: Provides complete water barrier. Challenges: Stiffness, environmental concerns, and limited recyclability.
Porosity – Fraction of void space within a fabric, influencing air and mo… #
Related terms: pore size, open cell. Example: 35 % Porosity in a mesh ventilation panel. Application: Determines breathability and drying rate. Challenges: Controlling pore uniformity during manufacturing.
Pressure gradient – Difference in pressure across a garment that drives f… #
Related terms: capillary action, wicking. Example: Designed pressure gradient in a compression sleeve to promote venous return. Application: Enhances circulation during recovery. Challenges: Achieving consistent gradient across body contours.
Pre‑shrink treatment – Process that reduces dimensional changes after fir… #
Related terms: sanforization, pre‑wash. Example: Heat setting of polyester blends before cutting. Application: Improves size stability of performance tees. Challenges: Additional processing steps and energy use.
Pressure‑sensitive adhesive (PSA) – Adhesive that bonds at low pressure w… #
Related terms: tape, bonding. Example: PSA backing on removable ventilation patches. Application: Allows quick customization of airflow zones. Challenges: Maintaining adhesion under sweat and heat.
Protective coating – Surface layer that adds resistance to abrasion, chem… #
Related terms: abrasion resistant, UV coating. Example: Silicone‑based coating on a climbing harness. Application: Extends service life in harsh environments. Challenges: Potential stiffness and reduced breathability.
Proprietary blend – Customized fiber mix developed by a manufacturer for… #
Related terms: custom yarn, specialty fiber. Example: 70 % Polyester / 30 % elastane blend patented for high‑compression cycling shorts. Application: Offers unique stretch‑recovery balance. Challenges: Supply chain complexity and cost.
Quick‑dry – Fabric characteristic that enables rapid moisture evaporation #
Related terms: fast‑wick, low‑moisture retention. Example: Quick‑dry polyester used in triathlon suits. Application: Reduces weight gain from sweat. Challenges: Maintaining durability while accelerating drying.
Recycled content – Percentage of material derived from post‑consumer or p… #
Related terms: rPET, circular textile. Example: 50 % Recycled PET in a training jacket. Application: Lowers environmental footprint. Challenges: Consistency of fiber quality and color matching.
Reflective thread – Yarn containing glass beads or metallic fibers that r… #
Related terms: high‑visibility, retroreflective. Example: Reflective stitching on a night‑run vest. Application: Increases safety in low‑light conditions. Challenges: Wear resistance and maintaining reflectivity after laundering.
Reinforced stitching – Stitching method that adds extra yarn or multiple… #
Related terms: double stitch, bar tack. Example: Reinforced stitching at the waistband of compression shorts. Application: Prevents seam failure under high tension. Challenges: Slight increase in garment weight and bulk.
Rib knit – Knit structure with alternating knit and purl stitches creatin… #
Related terms: 1×1 rib, 2×2 rib. Example: 2×2 Rib cuff on a performance long‑sleeve. Application: Provides elastic, snap‑back fit. Challenges: Rib stretch can be limited in high‑compression garments.
Ripstop – Fabric woven with a reinforced pattern (often crosshatch) to pr… #
Related terms: reinforced weave, tear‑resistant. Example: Nylon ripstop used in a wind‑breaker. Application: Limits propagation of small holes. Challenges: Slight increase in weight and potential for visible pattern.
Seam bonding – Technique that fuses fabric edges using heat, ultrasonic e… #
Related terms: ultrasonic welding, heat bonding. Example: Seam‑bonded panels in a compression shirt to reduce friction. Application: Creates smooth, chafe‑free surfaces. Challenges: Compatibility of bonding method with fabric composition.
Sheer – Fabric with low opacity, allowing light to pass through #
Related terms: transparent, lightweight. Example: Sheer mesh inserts in a volleyball jersey for ventilation. Application: Increases airflow without adding bulk. Challenges: Durability of thin sections and potential snagging.
Shear modulus – Measure of a material’s resistance to shear deformation #
Related terms: elastic modulus, stiffness. Example: High shear modulus in aramid fibers for protective pads. Application: Provides rigidity where impact protection is needed. Challenges: Balancing stiffness with flexibility for movement.
Silicone coating – Silicone‑based finish that adds water repellency and s… #
Related terms: DWR, soft finish. Example: Silicone coating on the exterior of a lightweight running jacket. Application: Improves rain protection while preserving flexibility. Challenges: Maintaining coating after repeated abrasion.
Skin‑friendly – Property indicating fabric’s suitability for direct conta… #
Related terms: hypoallergenic, softness. Example: Brushed polyester inner layer of a compression shirt. Application: Reduces risk of dermatitis during long sessions. Challenges: Ensuring performance attributes (e.G., Wicking) are not compromised.
Smart textile – Fabric integrated with electronic components for sensing… #
Related terms: e‑textile, wearable tech. Example: Conductive yarn woven into a shirt to monitor heart rate. Application: Provides real‑time biometric data. Challenges: Power supply, washability, and durability.
Softening agents – Chemical finishes that increase fabric hand feel and f… #
Related terms: fabric softener, conditioner. Example: Silicone softener on polyester for a smoother feel. Application: Enhances comfort of high‑performance fabrics. Challenges: Potential reduction in moisture wicking.
Spandex (Elastane) – Highly elastic synthetic fiber used for stretch #
Related terms: LYCRA, elastane. Example: 5 % Elastane in a compression legging. Application: Provides shape retention and freedom of movement. Challenges: UV degradation and loss of elasticity over time.
Stitch density – Number of stitches per unit length, influencing seam str… #
Related terms: stitch count, seam construction. Example: 8 Stitches/cm in a reinforced side seam. Application: Determines durability under repetitive stress. Challenges: Higher density can add bulk and reduce stretch.
Stitch length – Length of each stitch, measured in millimeters, affecting… #
Related terms: seam tension, stitch density. Example: 2 Mm stitch length for a flatlock seam. Application: Balances seam strength and flexibility. Challenges: Inconsistent tension may cause puckering.
Stretch ratio – Ratio of stretched length to original length, expressed a… #
Related terms: elasticity, elongation. Example: 30 % Stretch ratio in a jersey’s underarm panels. Application: Allows ease of motion in high‑mobility zones. Challenges: Maintaining consistent stretch after laundering.
Superhydrophobic – Surface that extremely repels water, often with contac… #
Related terms: lotus effect, nanostructured coating. Example: Nanotextured PU coating on a surf jacket. Application: Prevents water adhesion during water sports. Challenges: Durability under abrasion and UV exposure.
Thermal insulation – Ability of a material to resist heat flow #
Related terms: R‑value, clo. Example: 0.3 Clo polyester fleece in a winter training top. Challenges: Balancing insulation with breathability.
Thermal regulation – Management of heat exchange between body and environ… #
Related terms: PCM, breathability. Example: Moisture‑wicking outer layer combined with insulated liner. Application: Maintains stable core temperature during variable intensity workouts. Challenges: Designing dynamic systems that adapt to activity level.
Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) – Elastic polymer used for coatings, lam… #
Related terms: PU, elastic coating. Example: TPU laminate on a breathable sports shoe upper. Application: Provides stretch, abrasion resistance, and water repellency. Challenges: Achieving uniform thickness and maintaining breathability.
Three‑dimensional knitting (3D knit) – Advanced knitting that creates sha… #
Related terms: seamless, knit engineering. Example: 3D‑knit compression sleeve with built‑in support zones. Application: Eliminates seams that could cause irritation. Challenges: Complex machinery and limited pattern options.
Twist – Number of turns applied to yarn during spinning, influencing stre… #
Related terms: yarn twist, torque. Example: High‑twist polyester yarn for a smooth, low‑pilling surface. Application: Increases tensile strength and reduces abrasion. Challenges: Excessive twist can reduce fabric softness.
Ultra‑high‑molecular‑weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) – Extremely strong, low… #
Related terms: Dyneema, Spectra. Example: UHMWPE fibers in a lightweight protective vest. Application: Offers high tensile strength with minimal weight. Challenges: Cost and difficulty of processing.
UV protection factor (UPF) – Measure of how much ultraviolet radiation is… #
Related terms: sun‑protective, photostability. Example: UPF 50+ rating on a marathon shirt. Application: Shields skin during long outdoor sessions. Challenges: Maintaining UPF after repeated washing.
V‑cut – Fabric cut in a V‑shaped pattern to reduce material usage and cre… #
Related terms: pattern manipulation, fabric waste reduction. Example: V‑cut side panels in a compression top to enhance lateral stretch. Application: Improves ergonomic fit while reducing excess fabric. Challenges: Precise cutting required to avoid seam misalignment.
Vacuum bagging – Process where fabric and resin are sealed in a vacuum ba… #
Related terms: composite layup, resin infusion. Example: Vacuum‑bagged carbon‑fiber laminate for a high‑performance sprinting shell. Application: Increases fiber volume fraction for maximum strength. Challenges: Equipment cost and need for skilled labor.
Vented panel – Section of a garment with increased airflow, often using m… #
Related terms: mesh insert, perforation. Example: Vented back panel on a cycling jersey. Application: Enhances cooling in high‑heat zones. Challenges: Preventing water ingress while maintaining ventilation.
Water repellency – Ability of a fabric to shed water droplets #
Related terms: DWR, hydrophobic finish. Example: DWR‑treated polyester on a trail running jacket. Application: Keeps outer surface dry while allowing vapor escape.