Knitted Fabric Comparison: Nylon vs. Polyester for Apparel Decisions

As a fabric decision-maker in apparel—whether you're a designer, procurement specialist, or brand strategist—you need clear, actionable insights to balance performance, cost, and market fit. This post compares knitted nylon and knitted polyester, focusing on key factors for your choices. We'll start with a streamlined comparison table based on 2025 industry data (for pure or high-blend knits, 100-220 gsm), then explore the underlying compositions and their implications. Data draws from textile reports and brand examples to support practical decisions.

Key Comparison: Knitted Nylon vs. Knitted Polyester

Item	Knitted Polyester	Knitted Nylon	Recommendation
Composition	PET polyester with ester bonds; petroleum-derived	PA polyamide with amide bonds; petroleum-derived	Tie; nylon offers better water interaction
Hand Feel	Firm, smooth, subtle synthetic texture	Silky, supple, silk-like	Nylon: For premium touch in womenswear
Drape	Moderate; holds structure	Superior; fluid and elegant	Nylon: Best for skirts or fitted designs
Comfort (Wicking)	Can feel humid and clingy in heat	Stronger moisture management; cooler wear	Nylon: Ideal for active or intimate apparel
Elasticity	Fair; may loosen over time	High recovery; maintains shape	Nylon: Suited for yoga or base layers
Abrasion/Pilling	Pilling rating 3.5-4.5; durable	Pilling rating 2.5-3.5; more prone	Polyester: For daily or outdoor use
Wrinkle Resistance	Low-maintenance; dries smooth	Wrinkles easily when damp	Polyester: Efficient for mass production
Chlorine/Sun Resistance	Strong; standard for swimwear	Vulnerable to degradation	Polyester: Reliable for pools or exposure
Color Performance	Solid fastness; synthetic sheen	Vibrant, natural depth	Nylon: For standout designs
Cost (2025 Greige)	¥14-22/kg; scalable for volume	¥28-45/kg; premium tier	Polyester: Budget control
Sustainability	High recyclability (rPET >30%)	Recycling options like Econyl	Polyester: Easier eco-compliance
Market Positioning	Mid-market (e.g., Uniqlo AIRism)	Luxury (e.g., Lululemon Align)	Polyester for volume; nylon for value-add
Supply/Processing	Widely available; straightforward	Consistent but heat-intensive dyeing	Polyester: Faster turnaround
Consumer Insights (2025)	Practical and economical; perceived as basic	Luxurious comfort; requires care	Nylon: Builds loyalty in high-end

(Data from 2025 textile industry analyses and case studies. Adjust for specific blends via testing.)

Composition Insights: How Molecular Differences Drive Performance

The differences between knitted nylon and polyester stem from their core chemistries, influencing everything from wearability to production.

Polyester (PET) features ester bonds in a compact molecular chain, resulting in low moisture absorption (0.4%). This creates a durable, low-care fabric—resistant to wrinkles, sun, and chemicals like chlorine—but it can trap heat, as noted in comfort ratings. It's why polyester dominates cost-effective lines, such as budget tees or swimwear.

Nylon (PA) uses amide bonds that enable hydrogen bonding, allowing 4-8% moisture uptake. This enhances breathability and elasticity, mimicking natural fibers for a premium feel. However, it weakens under prolonged exposure to UV or chlorine. Brands leverage this for fitted, high-performance items like athletic wear.

Dyeing reflects these traits: polyester's high-heat process yields consistent but glossy colors; nylon's acid dyes provide richer tones. On sustainability, polyester's rPET recycling (from bottles) is more established, while nylon's options (e.g., from fishing nets) are growing but costlier.

Selection Guidance

For mass-market efficiency, like Uniqlo's everyday knits, polyester delivers durability and margins. For elevated positioning, such as SKIMS intimates, nylon's superior drape and comfort justify the premium. Consider blends for hybrids: polyester-nylon mixes optimize cost and performance.

This comparison equips you to align fabric choices with brand goals. Share your experiences below or suggest the next matchup. (November 2025)