Knitted Fabric Comparison: Nylon vs. Polyester for Apparel Decisions
Knitted Fabric Comparison: Nylon vs. Polyester for Apparel Decisions
As a fabric decision-maker in apparel—whether you're a designer, procurement specialist, or brand strategist—you need clear, actionable insights to balance performance, cost, and market fit. This post compares knitted nylon and knitted polyester, focusing on key factors for your choices. We'll start with a streamlined comparison table based on 2025 industry data (for pure or high-blend knits, 100-220 gsm), then explore the underlying compositions and their implications. Data draws from textile reports and brand examples to support practical decisions.
Key Comparison: Knitted Nylon vs. Knitted Polyester
|
Item
|
Knitted Polyester
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Knitted Nylon
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Recommendation
|
|
Composition
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PET polyester with ester bonds; petroleum-derived
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PA polyamide with amide bonds; petroleum-derived
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Tie; nylon offers better water interaction
|
|
Hand Feel
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Firm, smooth, subtle synthetic texture
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Silky, supple, silk-like
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Nylon: For premium touch in womenswear
|
|
Drape
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Moderate; holds structure
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Superior; fluid and elegant
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Nylon: Best for skirts or fitted designs
|
|
Comfort (Wicking)
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Can feel humid and clingy in heat
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Stronger moisture management; cooler wear
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Nylon: Ideal for active or intimate apparel
|
|
Elasticity
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Fair; may loosen over time
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High recovery; maintains shape
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Nylon: Suited for yoga or base layers
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Abrasion/Pilling
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Pilling rating 3.5-4.5; durable
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Pilling rating 2.5-3.5; more prone
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Polyester: For daily or outdoor use
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|
Wrinkle Resistance
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Low-maintenance; dries smooth
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Wrinkles easily when damp
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Polyester: Efficient for mass production
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Chlorine/Sun Resistance
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Strong; standard for swimwear
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Vulnerable to degradation
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Polyester: Reliable for pools or exposure
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|
Color Performance
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Solid fastness; synthetic sheen
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Vibrant, natural depth
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Nylon: For standout designs
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Cost (2025 Greige)
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¥14-22/kg; scalable for volume
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¥28-45/kg; premium tier
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Polyester: Budget control
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Sustainability
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High recyclability (rPET >30%)
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Recycling options like Econyl
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Polyester: Easier eco-compliance
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Market Positioning
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Mid-market (e.g., Uniqlo AIRism)
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Luxury (e.g., Lululemon Align)
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Polyester for volume; nylon for value-add
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Supply/Processing
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Widely available; straightforward
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Consistent but heat-intensive dyeing
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Polyester: Faster turnaround
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Consumer Insights (2025)
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Practical and economical; perceived as basic
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Luxurious comfort; requires care
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Nylon: Builds loyalty in high-end
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(Data from 2025 textile industry analyses and case studies. Adjust for specific blends via testing.)
Composition Insights: How Molecular Differences Drive Performance
The differences between knitted nylon and polyester stem from their core chemistries, influencing everything from wearability to production.
Polyester (PET) features ester bonds in a compact molecular chain, resulting in low moisture absorption (0.4%). This creates a durable, low-care fabric—resistant to wrinkles, sun, and chemicals like chlorine—but it can trap heat, as noted in comfort ratings. It's why polyester dominates cost-effective lines, such as budget tees or swimwear.
Nylon (PA) uses amide bonds that enable hydrogen bonding, allowing 4-8% moisture uptake. This enhances breathability and elasticity, mimicking natural fibers for a premium feel. However, it weakens under prolonged exposure to UV or chlorine. Brands leverage this for fitted, high-performance items like athletic wear.
Dyeing reflects these traits: polyester's high-heat process yields consistent but glossy colors; nylon's acid dyes provide richer tones. On sustainability, polyester's rPET recycling (from bottles) is more established, while nylon's options (e.g., from fishing nets) are growing but costlier.
Selection Guidance
For mass-market efficiency, like Uniqlo's everyday knits, polyester delivers durability and margins. For elevated positioning, such as SKIMS intimates, nylon's superior drape and comfort justify the premium. Consider blends for hybrids: polyester-nylon mixes optimize cost and performance.
This comparison equips you to align fabric choices with brand goals. Share your experiences below or suggest the next matchup. (November 2025)
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