To set things straight, Dri-Fit is actually a proprietary fabric technology trademarked by Nike. They designed it to keep you cool, dry, and comfortable by wicking moisture away from the skin.

Over time, it’s become such a household name that people now casually refer to all moisture-wicking shirts as “dry-fit” or some variation of it.

Think of it like how people call all photocopiers “Xerox” or all instant noodles “Maggi.” So, what are Dri-Fit shirts made out of, and what are Dri-Fit clothes for? Let’s break it down.

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What are Dri-Fit Clothes Used For?

Dri-Fit, sometimes spelled as dry fit, clothes are designed for active lifestyles, making them a go-to choice for athletes, gym enthusiasts, and anyone who loves staying on the move.

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Here’s why they’re so popular:

Moisture-wicking: Pulls sweat away from your skin to the outer layer, where it evaporates quickly

Enhanced performance: By helping regulate your temperature and keeping you dry, Dri-Fit clothes allow you to focus on your workout instead of your sweat.

Temperature control: Helps keep your body cool even during intense workouts

Lightweight and breathable: Feels airy on the skin and dries quickly

Stylish and versatile: Can be worn at the gym or out for a casual day, typically rocking a range of vibrant colors

Reduces chafing: Keeps skin dry and irritation at bay

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Whether you’re working out, playing sports, or just enjoying a humid day outdoors, Dri-Fit fabrics are a solid choice.

What Is Dri-Fit Material?

So, what material is dry fit made from? Nike’s Dri-Fit products are primarily crafted from a microfiber polyester blend engineered for moisture-wicking performance. 

However, other brands producing moisture-wicking or sweat-proof activewear use blends that may include:

• Nylon: For added strength and durability
• Spandex or elastane: For stretch and improved mobility 

Different Types of DriFit

There’s more than one type of Dri-Fit shirt. For instance, at DayTech Gifts we offer several dryfit material variations tailored to different preferences:

• Dri-Fit Cotton: Combines the soft feel of cotton with the moisture-wicking properties of Dri-Fit. Best of both worlds!
• Honeycomb Fabric: Features a breathable, honeycomb-like structure for enhanced airflow and fast drying, similar to Drytech
• Rapid Evaporation Fabric: Designed with increased surface area for quick moisture evaporation, similar to Coolmax.

How Does Dri-Fit Work?

The magic behind Dri-Fit lies in its moisture-wicking technology, which uses capillary action to pull sweat away from your skin and distribute it across the fabric’s surface for faster evaporation.

Here’s where science comes into play: fabrics have varying levels of polarity, which is their ability to absorb water and retain it, also known as moisture regain value.

Hydrophobic materials like polyester repel water, making them ideal for wicking sweat away without soaking up excess moisture. This keeps you dry and comfortable even during intense physical activity.

To give you an idea, here’s the moisture regain value of the most common fabrics:

• Cotton: 8.5%
• Polyester: 0.4%
• Wool: 16%
• Cotton-polyester (50/50): 4.45%
• Nylon: 4% 

DriFit Vs. Cotton

Cotton may feel comfy, but once you start sweating, it holds onto moisture like a sponge. Since cotton is hydrophilic, it retains water, making it less ideal for physical activity. You’ll end up with a damp, clingy shirt that can irritate your skin or cause skin maceration (softening and skin breakdown due to prolonged moisture).

Dri-Fit, however, helps you stay dry and comfortable, even during high-intensity workouts.

DriFit Vs. Polyester

Let’s clear things up: Dri-Fit is a brand name, while polyester is a type of material. 

Not all polyester fabrics have moisture-wicking properties. Polyester is used in everything from clothes to home furnishings to industrial textiles, while Dri-Fit is a specific version of polyester that’s been treated or constructed to pull moisture from your body.

So, while all Dri-Fit is polyester, not all polyester is Dri-Fit.

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FAQs about Dri-Fit clothes

Is it Dri-Fit or Dry Fit?

The correct term is Dri-Fit (capital F-I-T), a Nike trademark. However, other brands offer similar moisture-wicking tech with names like Climacool (Adidas) or Coolmax (LYCRA).

Can you print on Dri Fit shirts?

Absolutely! The smooth texture of Dri-Fit fabric makes it an excellent medium for printing designs or logos.

Here at DayTech Gifts, we specialize in creating custom prints on Dri-Fit shirts. In particular, we can do silkscreen printing, embroidery, and heat transfer on Dri-Fit shirts. Contact us on WhatsApp to learn more!

Can you embroider on Dri-Fit shirts?

Yes—but it requires skill and proper tools to avoid puckering or distortion around the design. Poorly executed embroidery can tug at the fabric or compromise its appearance. At DayTech Gifts, we ensure that embroidery is done professionally and cleanly.

Is it okay to iron Dri-Fit?

It’s best to avoid high heat on Dri-Fit fabric since it’s heat-sensitive. Many Dri-Fit shirts are wrinkle-resistant anyway. To keep them looking fresh, try steaming, wrinkle-release spray, or simply hang-drying instead.  

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Stay Dry and Cool with Dri-Fit

Dri-Fit clothing keeps you cool, dry, and comfortable—perfect for Singapore’s humid weather.  

Whether it’s to surprise your team with branded event shirts or to gift clients thoughtful activewear, DayTech Gifts offers a range of customisable Dri-Fit shirts perfect for your corporate gifting needs.

Browse our catalogue or message us on WhatsApp to get started!