Performance Apparel Brands Increase Use of Cellulosic Fibres as Alternatives to Synthetics

Textiles Intelligence report highlights growing adoption of natural, regenerated and man-made cellulosic fibres in performance apparel

The performance apparel industry is expanding its use of cellulosic fibres, including man-made cellulosic fibres (MMCFs), plant-based fibres, regenerated fibres and wool, as manufacturers respond to growing demand for materials with lower environmental impact than conventional synthetic fibres.

According to the 27-page report, "Natural and man-made cellulosic fibre alternatives to synthetic fibres for performance apparel", from Textiles Intelligence, concerns over environmental sustainability and microplastics pollution are encouraging brands and manufacturers to evaluate alternative fibre options.

Synthetic fibres have traditionally been used in performance apparel because they combine cost efficiency, durability, moisture management properties and opportunities for technological development. However, the report notes that environmental concerns associated with petroleum-derived fibres are influencing material innovation across the industry.

Consumer expectations are also evolving beyond athletic performance to include factors such as thermophysiological comfort, softness, odour management and environmental responsibility. This shift is increasing the relevance of natural and man-made cellulosic fibres in performance apparel applications.

Cotton, Wool and MMCFs Gain Momentum

The report states that cotton is benefiting from developments in yarn engineering, fabric construction and fibre blending technologies, which are addressing its traditional moisture retention limitations.

Modern moisture management technologies now enable cotton fabrics to transport perspiration away from the skin more effectively than conventional cotton fabrics. Several apparel brands, including Under Armour, Nike and Polartec, have introduced technologies designed to improve cotton's suitability for performance apparel.

Merino wool has also strengthened its position in the outdoor apparel and activewear segments due to its thermoregulation, moisture management and natural odour resistance. Brands including icebreaker, Ortovox and Smartwool are increasingly incorporating merino wool into their clothing systems.

The report also identifies growing use of man-made cellulosic fibres (MMCFs) such as lyocell, modal and viscose in next-to-skin performance garments, sportswear and outdoor apparel because of their softness, breathability and moisture management characteristics.

Concerns about microplastics pollution are further supporting the adoption of MMCFs, as these fibres are biodegradable under appropriate conditions.

Investment in Next-Generation Fibre Technologies

Several fibre manufacturers are investing in the development of next-generation MMCFs.

The report highlights Lenzing, which has positioned its Tencel fibres as technical performance materials for sportswear and outdoor apparel.

Innovation is also advancing in regenerated cellulose fibres produced from textile waste and agricultural residues. Companies including Circulose, Infinited Fiber Company, Spinnova and Evrnu have developed technologies capable of converting waste materials into new textile fibres suitable for performance apparel applications.

Blended Fibre Solutions Continue to Dominate

Despite these developments, the report notes that natural and regenerated fibres continue to face technical limitations in high-performance applications. Compared with synthetic fibres, they generally offer lower durability, slower drying performance, reduced elasticity and face scalability challenges.

As a result, many performance apparel innovations continue to focus on fibre blends that combine the comfort and environmental characteristics of natural and regenerated fibres with the performance attributes of synthetic materials.

According to the report, the increasing use of cotton, wool, MMCFs and regenerated fibres reflects a broader shift within the performance apparel industry, where these materials are becoming established not only as alternatives to synthetic fibres but also as important fibre options in a more diversified and environmentally sustainable performance apparel market.