Cotton, Linen, or Polyester: Here’s the Best Fabric for Staying Cool

There’s nothing worse than stepping outside on a hot day and immediately feeling like your clothes are turning into a portable oven. You're not alone if you’ve ever found yourself drenched in sweat and wondering, “Why did I wear this shirt?”

Choosing the right fabric for hot weather isn’t just about style; it’s about comfort, breathability, sweat management, and staying cool while still looking put together. The decision often comes down to three common fabrics: cotton, linen, and polyester.

So, which one should you wear when the sun is doing the most?

READ ALSO: Why Fashion It-Girls (and Guys) Can’t Stop Wearing XO Baggy Ankara Trousers

Meet the Fabrics

• Cotton: Natural, soft, and breathable. Found in everything from T-shirts to bedsheets.

• Linen: Also natural, made from the flax plant. Lightweight and textured with a reputation for staying cool.

• Polyester: Synthetic, durable, wrinkle-resistant, and moisture-wicking. But often seen as less breathable.

Now let’s compare these three across key areas that matter in hot weather.

1. Breathability

When it’s hot, you want your skin to get the best airflow possible.

Cotton: Cotton is famous for its breathability because it’s a natural fiber with a looser weave. It allows plenty of air to pass through, helping your body cool as sweat evaporates.

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Excellent choice for casual hot-weather days. However, keep in mind that it absorbs sweat and remains wet.

Linen: Linen is the king of breathability. Thanks to its loose weave and lightweight texture, it's even more breathable than cotton. Air flows freely, and they don't cling to your body when you sweat.

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Polyester: Here’s where polyester struggles. Since it’s synthetic, it’s tightly woven and doesn’t allow for good airflow. Polyester traps heat and moisture against your skin, which can cause a gross, sticky feeling.

Not ideal unless it’s blended or treated with moisture-wicking technology.

2. Moisture-Wicking: What Happens When You Sweat?

Cotton: Cotton soaks up sweat like a sponge. Unfortunately, it doesn't dry quickly, so you’re stuck with damp, heavy clothing once it's wet. Comfortable at first, but can feel soggy in extremely hot weather.

Linen: Linen absorbs moisture too, but unlike cotton, it dries pretty quickly. It also doesn’t cling to your body when damp, which is a huge win. More forgiving when you’re sweaty. A solid summer option.

Polyester: Polyester doesn’t absorb moisture, but that’s not always a bad thing. High-performance polyester fabrics are designed to wick sweat away from your skin and dry quickly. That’s why it’s a go-to in sportswear. Traps heat unless it’s specifically engineered to wick moisture. Choose wisely.

3. Comfort and Feel: What’s It Like on Your Skin?

Nobody wants to wear something itchy or sticky when it’s hot.

Cotton: Cotton is soft, smooth, and feels great on the skin. It's ideal for sensitive skin types and doesn't irritate.

Linen: Linen has a coarser, more textured feel. It’s not scratchy, but it's not silky-soft either. It has a more rugged feel. Some people love the natural texture, while others find it takes getting used to.

Polyester: Polyester can feel plasticky or slick, depending on the weave. It’s not usually the softest against the skin and can make you feel wrapped in clingfilm on a hot day. It is not the cosiest option unless it is blended with natural fibres.

4. Style and Appearance: How Do They Look on You?

Cotton: Cotton looks fresh and clean and comes in every possible colour and print. It’s versatile and can be styled easily. However, it wrinkles easily and can look a bit sloppy if not well-pressed.

Linen: Linen screams “summer chic.” Its naturally wrinkled, effortless look gives European vacation vibes. That said, not everyone loves the rumpled look. Linen wrinkles easily, but that’s part of its charm.

Polyester: Polyester holds its shape well and doesn’t wrinkle much. Depending on how it's processed, it can look like silk, cotton, or even linen. However, it can look a bit shiny or unnatural in some cases.

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5. Durability: Will It Last?

Cotton: Cotton is pretty durable, but repeated washing (especially with sweat involved) can wear it out over time. It may shrink or fade faster.

Linen: Linen is strong and gets better with age. The more you wash it, the softer it becomes. With proper care, it can last for years.

Polyester: Polyester is ultra-durable. It doesn’t shrink, resists wrinkles, and holds colour extremely well. It is ideal for clothes that need to survive regular use.

Which One Should You Use in Hot Weather?

Best Overall: Linen

If you can handle the wrinkles and texture, linen is hands down the best hot-weather fabric. It’s breathable, moisture-absorbent, dries fast, and makes you feel like you’re on vacation, even when sweating in Lagos traffic.

Runner-Up: Cotton

Cotton is a strong, affordable, and easy-to-wear choice. It’s also soft, natural, and breathable. Just don’t expect it to help you much when sweating or participating in outdoor activities.

Caution Zone: Polyester

Unless labeled as moisture-wicking or performance wear, steer clear of polyester in the heat. It traps heat and can feel suffocating. Only go for it if you're dressing for exercise; even then, choose smart.

Final Tips for Dressing in Hot Weather

• Go light – Choose light colors (such as white, beige, or pastels) to reflect sunlight.

• Go loose – Looser fits allow better airflow.

• Blend it up – Cotton-linen blends or moisture-wicking polyester-cotton hybrids can give you the best of both worlds.

Here's a quick breakdown:

If it’s hot out, go for Linen to stay cool and chic. Cotton is better if you want comfort and affordability. Polyester is only recommended if you’re planning to run a marathon or need something wrinkle-free for a short outing.