Why does microfibre dry so quickly?
Microfibre dries very quickly because its extremely fine fibres create a very large surface area relative to the material. This allows it to absorb and distribute moisture efficiently, speeding up the drying process. In addition, the fabric is breathable, which promotes evaporation. This makes microfibre one of the most practical materials for travelling, especially when you have little time or space to dry your gear.
Advantages and properties of microfibre
Beyond its quick‑drying nature, microfibre offers several other benefits that make it a favourite in outdoor equipment. Key advantages include:
- Lightweight and compact: The material is very light and can be compressed or folded down easily. Ideal when backpack space is limited or when you’re aiming to travel light.
- Breathable: This synthetic fabric is breathable and offers greater comfort than basic synthetic fibres, as it wicks moisture away from the skin even more efficiently.
- Durable: This textile is also tough and resistant to abrasion.
- Easy to care for: Microfibre is simple to wash and dries quickly – perfect when trekking and relying on quick‑drying, low‑maintenance fabrics.
- Soft and comfortable: Despite being synthetic, the material feels surprisingly soft and pleasant against the skin.
Is microfibre polyester?
Yes, microfibre is usually made from polyester or from a blend of polyester and polyamide. The fibres are drawn and refined in such a way that extremely fine yet very dense filaments are created. This specialised processing gives microfibre its functional qualities, such as breathability and durability.
Microfibre compared to cotton and wool
Compared to natural materials like cotton or wool, microfibre offers clear advantages for outdoor use. For exmaple, microfibre is lighter and dries significantly faster – ideal when travelling and needing your towel or shirt to be ready again quickly. Cotton is breathable and comfortable, but retains moisture and takes a long time to dry. Not ideal for changeable weather or multi‑day tours. Wool is warm and breathable but can be heavy and bulky – not the best when you’re aiming to keep your pack weight low for hut‑to‑hut tours in the mountains.
Compared to other synthetic materials like nylon or polyester, microfibre still stands out: it is finer and more densely woven, improving moisture wicking properties and offering a softer feeling against the skin. This makes it particularly practical for intense outdoor activities such as hiking, trekking or trail running.
Where is microfibre used?
Microfibre is found in a wide range of outdoor products. The best‑known example is microfibre towels, which many hikers and travellers carry because they are lightweight, compact and quick‑drying. These are ideal for camping, hiking and travelling.
Other products commonly made from microfibre include:
- Microfibre clothing: Shirts and T‑shirts made from microfibre are breathable, quick‑drying and comfortable. Perfect for hiking, trekking and other active pursuits. Microfibre trousers and shorts offer the same benefits and are great for warm weather and high‑output days.
- Outdoor equipment: Microfibre sleeping bags, sleeping mats and travel pillows are lightweight and compact. Ideal for backpackers and mountain hikers looking to save weight and space.
- Hygiene items for outdoor trips: Tissues, wet wipes and lens‑cleaning cloths are practical, hygienic and very useful when camping or on long hikes.
How can I wash microfibre?
To ensure microfibre stays functional for as long as possible, proper care is essential:
- Wash at low temperatures (ideally 30°C) using a mild detergent.
- Avoid fabric softeners and bleach, as these can damage the fibres.
- Turn garments inside out to protect colours and fabric.
- Do not tumble dry. Microfibre should be air‑dried, as heat can damage the fine structure.
Disadvantages of microfibre – nobody is perfect
Microfibre has many strengths, but a few drawbacks may be relevant depending on where you use it:
- Static electricity: As a synthetic material, microfibre can become electrostatically charged. In rare cases, this may feel unpleasant against your skin, especially in dry air or with friction.
- Moisture absorption: Although breathable, microfibre absorbs less moisture than natural materials like cotton. During high‑intensity activity, a slight film of moisture may remain on your skin.
- Drying performance after showering: Microfibre towels do not absorb moisture as thoroughly as thick terry cloth towels, which can leave you feeling slightly less dry after showering.
- Environmental impact: Washing microfibre textiles can release microplastics into wastewater. To reduce this, use laundry bags such as the Guppyfriend, which catch loose fibres. Alternatively, washing‑machine filters can be installed directly at the drain to effectively catch rogue microplastics.
