Exploring the potential of cellulosic fibre in activewear for sustainable fashion

This study aims to evaluate the performance of regenerated cellulosic knitted fabrics in activewear applications, focusing on moisture management and thermal comfort. While sportswear and athleisure materials continue to evolve towards enhanced user comfort, polyester remains the dominant fibre in the activewear market due to its effective moisture transport capabilities. In contrast, this study develops and investigates single jersey fabrics made of 100 % dope-dyed viscose treated with a hydrophobic agent and viscose/excel blended yarns, comparing their performance with commercially available activewear. The results reveal considerable differences, highlighting the influence of fabric structure on wicking behaviour and heat flux values. Fabrics with greater air entrapment exhibit lower Qmax values, indicating reduced instantaneous cooling. The configuration of viscose/excel on the fabric face and hydrophobic finished viscose at the back demonstrates effective directional moisture transfer from the inner to the outer surface. The 100% regenerated cellulosic fabrics with a hydrophobic finish show significant differences in spreading speed between the face and back, enhancing moisture evaporation. The wicking behaviour and heat flux values are also influenced by the knitting structures, with regenerated cellulosic fabric with a hydrophobic finish showing higher Qmax values. The infra-red spectroscopic study helps to identify the hydrophobic component applied to viscose fibres. The findings support the potential of sustainable regenerated fibres asviable alternatives in moisture-regulating sportswear and performance textiles.