Cotton Or Hemp Shirts: Which One Actually Keeps You Cooler?

A sweltering summer day can turn the simplest task into an endurance challenge. Choosing the right clothing isn't just about style, it's about survival. The wrong fabric can leave you drenched in sweat, while the right one keeps you breezy and comfortable. For decades, cotton has been the go-to for breathable clothing, but hemp is stepping into the spotlight with claims of superior cooling and eco-friendliness.

So, when it comes to staying cool, which fabric reigns supreme? Is hemp really the underdog that outperforms cotton, or does the classic favourite still hold the crown? Let's dive into the battle of the fibres and find out which one truly keeps you cooler.

Cotton Or Hemp Shirts: Which One Actually Keeps You Cooler?; Photo Credit: Pexels

1. Breathability: Which Fabric Lets Your Skin Breathe?

Breathability is key when it comes to summer clothing. The more a fabric allows air to flow through, the less likely you are to feel suffocated by heat. Cotton is known for its lightweight and airy nature, making it a popular choice for warm weather. Its soft fibres absorb moisture, helping to keep sweat at bay.

However, hemp takes breathability to another level. Its fibres are naturally porous, allowing more air to circulate. This means that while cotton absorbs moisture, hemp actively works to release it, drying much faster. If you've ever had the misfortune of wearing a soaked cotton T-shirt on a humid day, you'll appreciate the way hemp prevents that sticky, clingy feeling.

The verdict? While both fabrics perform well, hemp's superior moisture-wicking ability and airiness give it a slight edge in keeping you cool and fresh.

2. Moisture-Wicking: Staying Dry On A Hot Day

Sweating is inevitable in the heat, but a good fabric can make all the difference in how it affects your comfort. Cotton is absorbent, soaking up sweat like a sponge. While this may sound like a good thing, it has a major drawback, cotton holds onto moisture, meaning once it's wet, it stays wet for a while.

Hemp, on the other hand, is a moisture-wicking champion. Instead of trapping sweat, it pulls it away from your skin and allows it to evaporate quickly. This keeps you feeling drier and prevents that damp, uncomfortable sensation that often comes with wearing cotton on a hot day.

For those who spend a lot of time outdoors, whether hiking, cycling or just braving a particularly humid commute, hemp's quick-drying nature makes it the better choice for staying cool and dry.

3. Temperature Regulation: Cotton's Softness Or Hemp's Smart Adaptability

Cotton is loved for its softness and comfort, making it a staple in wardrobes worldwide. It feels great against the skin and provides decent airflow, which is why it has remained a summer favourite for generations.

However, hemp has an impressive ability to regulate temperature. It's naturally insulating, which means it keeps you cool in the heat and warm in the cold. Unlike cotton, which can trap warmth once it gets damp, hemp stays breathable and maintains a steady temperature.

Think of it like this: cotton is like a comfy bedsheet, light and breathable, but it doesn't actively regulate temperature. Hemp, on the other hand, works like nature's built-in air conditioning, adapting to your body's needs to keep you cool when it matters most.

If versatility is what you're after, hemp takes the lead in the temperature-regulation department.

Cotton Or Hemp Shirts: Which One Actually Keeps You Cooler?; Photo Credit: Pexels

4. Durability: Does One Fabric Hold Up Better In The Heat?

A lightweight summer shirt should be comfortable, but it also needs to withstand repeated washes and wear. Cotton is soft, but it tends to wear out quickly, especially when exposed to frequent washing, sweat, and sunlight. Over time, cotton fibres weaken, leading to thinning fabric and fraying edges.

Hemp, by contrast, is one of the most durable natural fibres out there. It becomes softer with each wash but maintains its strength far longer than cotton. A hemp shirt can last for years without losing its shape or quality. In fact, some hemp garments are said to be three times stronger than their cotton counterparts.

For those who want long-lasting clothing that won't fall apart after one summer, hemp is the clear winner in durability.

5. Eco-Friendliness: The Sustainability Factor

In today's world, sustainability matters. Cotton, while natural, is a thirsty crop that requires an immense amount of water to grow. Additionally, conventional cotton farming relies heavily on pesticides, which can harm the environment and farmers alike.

Hemp, on the other hand, is a sustainability superstar. It requires significantly less water, grows quickly, and naturally resists pests without the need for pesticides. Plus, hemp enriches the soil it's grown in, making it an environmentally friendly option from start to finish.

If reducing environmental impact is a priority, hemp outshines cotton by a long shot. Choosing hemp clothing isn't just good for you, it's a small but powerful way to make a positive impact on the planet.

6. Comfort And Feel: The Texture Test

Comfort is subjective, some prefer the smooth, soft feel of cotton, while others enjoy the slightly textured nature of hemp. Cotton's softness is undeniable, making it a pleasure to wear straight off the rack. However, cotton can sometimes feel too clingy, especially when damp.

Hemp starts off with a firmer texture but softens beautifully over time. Unlike cotton, which weakens as it softens, hemp retains its strength while becoming more comfortable with each wash. Many describe it as having a linen-like feel, offering breathability without excessive clinginess.

For those who prioritise softness straight away, cotton wins. But hemp is a fantastic choice if you're willing to break in a fabric that gets better with time.

Also Read: Style On A Budget: Explore Top Shirts For Men From CODE By Lifestyle On Myntra

7. Odour Resistance: Keeping Fresh All Day Long

There's nothing worse than stepping out on a hot day only to realise your shirt has absorbed every unpleasant smell possible. Cotton, while breathable, can hold onto sweat and odours, requiring frequent washing to stay fresh.

Hemp has natural antibacterial properties, which help prevent odour buildup. This means fewer washes are needed, and you can stay fresher for longer, even after a long day in the sun.

If you're someone who dreads the mid-day sweat smell, hemp's antimicrobial properties make it the ideal choice for keeping odours at bay.

Cotton Or Hemp Shirts: Which One Actually Keeps You Cooler?; Photo Credit: Pexels

8. The Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

So, which fabric truly keeps you cooler, cotton or hemp? Both have their strengths, but when it comes to breathability, moisture-wicking, durability, and sustainability, hemp has the upper hand. It dries faster, regulates temperature better, and stays fresher longer than cotton.

That being said, cotton still has its place. Its initial softness and widespread availability make it a great option for those who prioritise comfort and affordability. But if you're looking for a long-term investment in comfort, cooling, and sustainability, hemp is undoubtedly the winner.

At the end of the day, the best choice depends on personal preference and lifestyle. But one thing is certain, choosing the right fabric can transform a hot, sticky day into one of cool, breezy comfort. So next time the sun is blazing, reach for a shirt that works with you, not against you.

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If softness and affordability are your priorities, cotton remains a solid choice. However, if you're looking for superior breathability, moisture-wicking properties, durability, and sustainability, hemp emerges as the clear winner. While cotton is comfortable and familiar, hemp offers long-lasting comfort, stays fresher, and is far kinder to the environment. If you're ready to upgrade your summer wardrobe, a hemp shirt might just be the game-changer you need. Whichever fabric you choose, one thing is certain, staying cool in the heat is all about making the right choices. So, next time you're shopping for summer essentials, think beyond tradition and give hemp a try. You might just find it's the ultimate fabric for beating the heat.

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