Nylon
🏭 Synthetic Also called Polyamide.
A strong, stretchy plastic fiber, used where things wear out.
What it's made from
Polyamide plastic made from petrochemicals, melted and extruded into fibers.
At a glance
| BreathabilityLets air and heat through | Low (2 of 5) |
|---|---|
| WarmthFor its weight | Low (2 of 5) |
| Absorbs sweatPulls moisture off your skin | Low (2 of 5) |
| DurabilityResists wear and pilling | Very high (5 of 5) |
| Wrinkle resistanceStays smooth | High (4 of 5) |
| Easy careMachine wash and dry | High (4 of 5) |
| Sheds microplasticsWhen washed | Yes |
| Biodegradable | No |
A general guide. The weave, weight and finish of a fabric matter as much as the fiber.
How it feels
Smooth, light and a little slippery.
Good for
- Tights and hosiery
- Swimwear and leggings
- Sock heels and toes
- Outerwear shells
Watch for
- Sheds microplastic fibers in the wash.
- Holds odor and feels sweaty in heat.
Care
Machine wash cold, tumble low or line dry. Low heat only.
Often blended with
What those blends mean: Nylon + spandex · Nylon + wool · Nylon + cotton
Compare
More synthetic fabrics
See it before you buy
TruTag reads the fabric on every clothing listing at Amazon, Target and Walmart and shows how much nylon is really in it, right under each search result. See how it works →