Is Polyester Good for Summer? What You Need to Know Before You Sweat

When summer hits and temperatures rise, what you wear can make a huge difference in how comfortable you feel throughout the day. Whether you're dressing for a casual outing, an outdoor event, or just lounging in the heat, choosing the right fabric is key. One question that pops up a lot is: Is polyester good for summer? Let’s break it down.

 

What Is Polyester?

Polyester is a synthetic fiber made from petroleum-based products. It’s known for its durability, wrinkle resistance, and ability to hold its shape. It’s a common material in everything from activewear to fashion t-shirts, but how does it perform in hot weather?

 

Is Polyester Good for Hot Weather? ☀️

The short answer is: it depends on the type of polyester and how it’s used.

👍 Pros of Polyester in Summer:

• Lightweight feel: Many polyester garments are made to be light and airy.
• Moisture-wicking (in performance fabrics): Athletic and activewear polyester is often engineered to pull sweat away from your skin.
• Quick drying: Unlike cotton, polyester dries fast, which can help reduce that clammy feeling.

👎 Cons of Polyester in Summer:

• Poor breathability: Standard polyester doesn’t allow as much airflow as natural fabrics like cotton or linen.
• Can trap heat: Especially in humid climates, polyester can make you feel hotter.
• Holds onto odors: Polyester tends to absorb and retain smells more than natural fibers.

Best Alternatives to Polyester for Summer

If breathability is your priority, opt for these summer-friendly fabrics:

• Cotton: Natural, breathable, and soft.
• Linen: Extremely breathable and lightweight.
• Bamboo: Soft, moisture-wicking, and eco-friendly.
• Cotton-poly blends: Offer a balance of comfort and durability.

Cotton vs. Polyester: Which Is Better for Summer?

In general, cotton is better for breathability and softness, while polyester is better for durability and moisture management. The sweet spot for casual summer wear? Blends.

Enter Gildan Softstyle T-Shirts 👕

The Gildan 64000 Softstyle T-Shirt is popular for summer because it's:

• Lightweight (4.5 oz/yd²)
• Soft (ring-spun cotton)
• Affordable and durable

Solid colors in the Gildan 64000 line are made from 100% ring-spun cotton, which is breathable and ideal for hot weather.

Heather colors, on the other hand, are made from cotton-polyester blends, typically 65% polyester and 35% cotton (or similar ratios depending on the shade).

Are these Heather Colors Good for Summer?

💚Yes! the heather cotton/poly blends offer a balance of breathability and moisture-wicking. They're a bit less breathable than pure cotton but:

• Dry faster
• Resist shrinking
• Maintain shape better over time

This makes heather blends a great option for summer if you want comfort plus a slightly more athletic feel.

 

What to Wear in Summer: Final Takeaway

• For light activity and lounging: Go with 100% cotton for maximum breathability.
• For sweaty days or outdoor events: Cotton-poly blends (like Gildan heather colors) give you a nice balance of softness and function.
• For intense workouts: Use 100% performance polyester designed for moisture-wicking.

Try Trend Capsule’s Summer-Ready T-Shirts

At TrendCapsule.com, we offer over 60 unique designs printed on the Gildan 64000 Softstyle t-shirt: a summer-ready, lightweight tee that comes in both 100% cotton solids and cotton-polyester heather blends.

Whether you're after breathable comfort or on the move outside, our collection is made for cool, casual summer style that feels as good as it looks.

👕Browse our full collection today and find your new favorite summer tee.