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Which is better for sun protection fabrics: nylon or polyester?

Aug 20, 2024

Nylon and polyester have their own advantages and disadvantages in the application of sunscreen fabrics. Which one is better depends on the specific needs and usage environment. The following is a comparison of the two materials in terms of sunscreen function:

  1. Sunscreen performance
    Polyester: Polyester generally has good UV resistance. After proper treatment, polyester fabrics can provide higher UPF (ultraviolet protection factor), so they are superior in sunscreen.
    Nylon: Nylon’s UV resistance is relatively weak, but by adding a sunscreen coating or undergoing special treatment, it can also achieve a certain sunscreen effect.
  2. Durability
    Polyester: Polyester has high wear resistance and tensile strength, is not easy to deform or fade, and is suitable for long-term use.
    Nylon: Although nylon’s durability is also good, it is slightly inferior to polyester, especially in terms of anti-aging and durability.
  3. Comfort
    Polyester: Polyester is less breathable and may feel stuffy when worn in hot weather, but it dries quickly and is suitable for outdoor activities.
    Nylon: Nylon fabrics are generally softer, smoother, and more comfortable to the touch, making them better to wear, especially when worn for long periods of time.
  4. Weight
    Polyester: Polyester is generally slightly lighter than nylon, making it suitable for sun protection clothing or equipment that requires lightness.
    Nylon: Although nylon is slightly heavier, it has a soft texture and is suitable for wearing next to the skin.
    Conclusion
    If your main need is high sun protection and requires material durability, polyester may be a better choice; if you pay more attention to wearing comfort and softness, nylon may be more suitable. However, many high-performance sun protection clothing may use a blend of these two materials to combine the advantages of both.