Microfiber
Ultra-fine synthetic fibers, typically polyester or nylon. Very soft with good moisture-wicking but sheds microplastics.
Material Score Breakdown
7-axis material rubric, not a garment verdict — see disclosure below.
How long the fabric lasts with regular use
Softness, feel against skin, wearability
Air flow and ventilation
Heat retention and insulation
Ability to pull sweat away from skin
Environmental impact of production and disposal
How easy it is to wash, dry, and maintain
Products with microfiber
We don't have any garments containing microfiber in our catalog yet. Browse the full synthetic materials or check the product catalog.
What this score doesn't measure
This is a material rating, not a verdict on any specific garment made from microfiber. The axes above are research-backed averages for the fiber itself.
- ×Construction. Yarn staple length, weave / knit structure, stitch count, finishing. Identical fiber, very different garments.
- ×Fabric weight (GSM). A 140 GSM tee and a 220 GSM tee made of the same microfiber feel and last very differently.
- ×Dye + finishing chemicals. Beyond the three we flag (PFAS, formaldehyde, antimony), dozens of textile finishes aren't modelled.
Best For
Excellent durability (70) and comfort (65) for office wear
Good comfort (65) and care ease (80) for casual wear
Good moisture wicking (70) and durability (70) for weather protection
Detailed Use Case Scores
Pros
- ✓ Very soft
- ✓ Good moisture absorption
- ✓ Lightweight
- ✓ Quick-drying
Cons
- ✗ Sheds microplastics heavily
- ✗ Made from petroleum
- ✗ Can trap body heat
- ✗ Environmental pollutant
Better alternatives
Higher-scored synthetic materials. Same category — what to consider instead.
+24 vs Microfiber · 76/100
Membrane technology that is waterproof yet breathable. A laminate applied to other fabrics rather than a fabric itself.
+23 vs Microfiber · 75/100
Ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fiber — the world's strongest fiber by weight. 15x stronger than steel, used in cut-resistant gear, ultralight backpacks, and high-performance sails.
+22 vs Microfiber · 74/100
Waterproof breathable membrane fabric (Gore-Tex, eVent, or similar technology) laminated to a face fabric. The gold standard for rain and storm protection in technical outerwear.
Care Guide
Special Notes
• Never use fabric softener — clogs microfibers
• Wash with similar fabrics only — attracts lint
Additional Care Tips
- • Machine wash cold (30°C/85°F) on gentle cycle — always use a microfiber-catching wash bag
- • Air dry when possible to reduce microplastic shedding; tumble dry on low if needed
- • Avoid fabric softener — it clogs the ultra-fine fibers and reduces absorbency
- • Iron on the lowest setting only if absolutely necessary — microfiber melts easily
- • Wash separately from cotton and lint-producing fabrics — microfiber attracts lint
- • Use a microfiber-catching wash bag (e.g., Guppyfriend) every wash to trap microplastics
Cost
$$$$$
Budget-friendly
Shrinkage
Minimal shrinkage — follow care instructions
Eco Rating
High environmental impact