Vol.17, No.2, 2017, pp.145–149
UDC  677.076.45.017.87 687.14

In this paper are examined and compared properties of four knitted fabrics for making sports underwear: knitwear of 100% polyester and mixture of polyester/cotton and cotton/elastane. The aim is choosing appropriate knitwear for making sports underwear, considering various climate conditions and consumer activity. The results show that the thermal-, water vapour- and air permeability properties, that affect the comfort of garment, depend on the type fiber used and structural parameters of knitwear. Knitwear in interlock pique interlacement of polyester and cotton mixture has properties suitable for warmer climates and moderate activities, whereas the knitwear of polyester in jacquard interlacement with the trap on each loop is suitable for intense activities in a warm climate, but for materials which are not in contact with the skin. Knitted polyester in jacquard interlacement with the trap on the second loop, according to its properties, is suitable for application in cold conditions, whereas the interlock knitwear raising on one side of mixture of cotton and elastane is not recommended for production of sports underwear. The results are important for the selection of appropriate knitted fabrics or their combinations in sports underwear manufacture to satisfy certain requirements of thermophysiological comfort.

Keywords: knitted fabrics, sports underwear, activewear, thermophysiological properties, heat and moisture management