Micro Terry fabric is crafted from polyester fibers that are so fine they rival silk’s delicacy, which is up to 100 times thinner than human hair. Unlike conventional terrycloth made from cotton, micro terry has a synthetic polyester composition knitted into a dense, looped pile surface.
This structure grants it a luxuriously soft, plush texture.
The Choice of Leading Brands
Several athleisure brands have embraced micro terry, weaving it into their ethos of combining style with practicality.
Mack Weldon’s Ace Collection hints at a kinship with micro terry through its micro-brushed French terry fabric. It focuses on refined sweatpants and sweatshirts that blend cotton’s natural comfort with enhanced mobility. The ACE Sweatpants are made from a cotton-stretch blend that ensures softness and flexibility, making these pants ideal for just about anything.
The Normal Brand and Goodlife Clothing also use Terry Fabric in their collection of shirts, pants, sweaters, joggers, and jackets.
Micro Terry vs. Cotton Terry
| Feature | Micro Terry Fabric | Cotton Terry Fabric |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Synthetic polyester | Natural cotton |
| Texture | Soft, smooth texture with small, tightly woven loops | Larger, more pronounced loops |
| Weight | Lightweight and durable | Heavier |
| Drying Time | Dries faster | Slower to dry |
| Uses | Suitable for athletic/outdoor clothing, towels, bathrobes | Commonly used for towels, bathrobes, and some clothing |
Micro terry does not claim the highest absorbency throne—that honor belongs to cotton terrycloth. However, it champions softness and drying speed, vital for athleisure, where comfort and readiness are paramount.
Additionally, its resistance to odors, mildew, and fading gives it an edge over natural fibers, although its synthetic nature calls for mindful environmental consideration.
Micro terry fabric redefines men’s athleisure wear, offering an exquisite blend of comfort, functionality, and durability. Its fine fibers create a texture that’s pleasing to the touch and practical for active and leisure pursuits alike.
As athleisure continues to evolve, micro terry is a testament to the industry’s innovative spirit, promising a future where comfort and performance coalesce seamlessly.
Advantages of Micro Terry in Athleisure
Why has Micro Terry become a cornerstone for athleisure brands? First, its unparalleled softness and plush feel, combined with lightness, set it apart.
Then there’s its absorbency – capable of soaking up to seven times its weight in water – making it not just for loungewear but also for performance gear where moisture management is crucial. Its quick-drying nature outpaces cotton terrycloth, providing comfort without the wait.
Moreover, durability is a hallmark of micro terry. It stands against stains and fading, maintaining its quality through numerous washes. This easy-care feature ensures your athleisure pieces not only look great but last longer, too.
Learn About Athleisure Fabrics & Material
In the debate of Spandex vs Elastane, the terms are interchangeable, with spandex favored in the U.S. and elastane used more globally for the same flexible fiber.
Best Athleisure Brands
We’ve curated the top men’s athleisure brands all in one place. We’ve built a brand directory with brands like BYLT Basics, Cuts Clothing, Vuori, and Ministry of Supply. We feature brands like Black Ember, Ekster, and Alpaka, each making some of the dopest backpacks, totes, and sling bags.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Michael Brito
Michael Brito is the editor-in-chief for Athleisure Wear for Men (AW). He launched this site in 2024 as a hobby. He’s a TEDx speaker and leads global analytics for Zeno Group, an integrated communication agency. Connect with him on social media.
