How to Choose the Right Activewear & Swimwear Fabric for Your Brand

Published: 2025-03-10

Choosing the right fabric is the single most important decision when developing an activewear or swimwear line. The fabric determines how your product feels, moves, lasts and performs. Here's a practical guide to the performance fabrics we use at Vista Clothing, and how to pick the right one for your collection.

The Most Common Performance Fabric Blends

Almost all quality activewear and swimwear uses a stretch blend — usually a base fibre plus spandex (elastane). The two most common bases are polyester and nylon.

Polyester + Spandex

Polyester-spandex (commonly 82% polyester / 18% spandex, or 90% polyester / 10% spandex) is the workhorse of activewear. It's durable, quick-drying, holds color well and resists shrinking. It's ideal for leggings, sports bras, tops and shorts.

Nylon + Spandex

Nylon-spandex (e.g. 80% nylon / 20% spandex) feels softer and has a slightly silkier hand, with excellent four-way stretch and recovery. It's a great choice for premium activewear and many swimwear styles that need a smooth, body-hugging fit.

Key Performance Features to Look For

• Quick-Dry / Moisture-Wicking — essential for activewear; draws sweat away from the skin and dries fast.
• Four-Way Stretch — lets the garment move with the body in every direction, key for yoga, gym and training.
• UPF / Sun Protection — important for swimwear and outdoor activewear; many of our fabrics offer UPF50.
• Breathability — mesh panels or ventilation knit keep you cool during intense activity.
• Fade & Chlorine Resistance — critical for swimwear that sees repeated pool use.

How to Match Fabric to Product

• Leggings & Yoga — nylon-spandex or high-spandex polyester for stretch, compression and a smooth fit.
• Sports Bras — firm, high-recovery fabric with enough support; often higher spandex content.
• Running & Training Tops — lightweight, breathable polyester with quick-dry and moisture management.
• Swimwear — chlorine-resistant nylon or polyester with strong stretch and quick recovery.
• Boardshorts — durable, quick-dry nylon with a water-repellent finish.

Customizing Fabric for Your Brand

At Vista Clothing we help brands choose the right fabric and can customize composition, weight and finish. We can also add features like UPF50, antibacterial treatment, or sustainable recycled fibers. Tell us your design and target market — we'll recommend the best fabric for your collection.