Advantages and disadvantages of polyester in underwear

Let yourself be seduced by the magic of sustainable fashion! Polyester, that versatile synthetic fiber full of secrets, dominates the fashion world with its many properties. But what happens when it comes face to face with a lack of breathability? That's where cotton comes into play, providing a unique quality. Today, we'll reveal the advantages and disadvantages of polyester and show you why the combination of both fabrics is the magic formula we use at Abanderado to create the most spectacular underwear .

What is polyester?

Polyester is a synthetic fabric derived from petroleum, specifically from an aromatic hydrocarbon called styrene , combined with other chemical compounds. Its production process is called polymerization. The first polyester fiber was manufactured in the 1930s in England. The 1950s marked the golden age of polyester fiber. However, over time, blends of polyester with other fabrics have taken center stage, as their properties have improved.

The cotton and polyester blend results in a durable, easy-care, and affordable fabric.

Advantages and disadvantages of polyester

Since its inception, polyester has been used in various industries, taking advantage of its many qualities. Specifically, this highly moldable and moisture-resistant plastic resin is widely used in the textile industry. These are the main advantages and disadvantages of polyester.

What are the advantages of polyester in clothing?

The production process of polyester fiber is very economical and simple .
You save on ironing, since polyester garments don't wrinkle . Not only that, but they require virtually no maintenance, as they wash easily and dry quickly.
It does not shrink or deform.
It can be mixed with other fabrics . The combination of polyester and cotton is especially interesting, improving its breathability, softness, and comfort.
Polyester garments are very durable and resistant .
Polyester is dyeable in all types , offering a wide range of aesthetic options to the textile industry. In fact, prints on polyester are very common, both in clothing and home textiles.
It withstands exposure to sunlight without fading .
It's a waterproof fabric that retains body heat, making it perfect for making outerwear to combat low temperatures.

Characteristics of the polyester and cotton blend

What disadvantages does polyester have compared to cotton?

The main disadvantage of polyester is that it's less breathable than cotton. In this sense, cotton is much more recommended for garments that come into contact with the skin. That's why at Abanderado we have our Classic Collection , made with a 50% cotton and 50% polyester blend, bringing together the best of both worlds.
It is prone to static electricity generation .
Its feel is less soft than cotton. This ultra-soft texture makes cotton a preferred fabric for Abanderado's underwear collections.
In terms of sustainability and environmental preservation, polyester manufacturing is associated with a more significant environmental impact. This is especially true when compared to organic cotton farming, which uses no pesticides and utilizes efficient water management.

Which is better, polyester or cotton?

Cotton and polyester are two of the most widely used fabrics in the textile industry. And that's logical, given their exceptional properties. Therefore, it doesn't make much sense to choose between cotton and polyester. The best solution is to take full advantage of the advantages of each and overcome the disadvantages by combining both. The cotton and polyester blend results in a durable, easy-care, and affordable fabric. The garments also have a softer texture, resulting in greater comfort. And, above all, it overcomes one of polyester's biggest disadvantages: its lack of breathability. Clothing made with a combination of polyester and cotton promotes the evaporation of moisture and sweat, while allowing air to pass through. Therefore, these garments can be worn for sports or on hot days. Why choose between cotton and polyester when you can combine both fabrics? At Abanderado , we have no doubts. We've taken advantage of the best of both worlds. The most representative example is our Classic Collection, made with a 50% cotton and 50% polyester blend . A selection of boxer shorts and undershirts, with a refined masculine style, that adapt perfectly to any silhouette. High-quality, breathable, and highly durable underwear.