Natural or synthetic fibers: what’s the real difference and which is best?

Choosing the right T-shirt may seem like an easy task, but it’s actually not. Between fabrics, fibers, and technical features, finding your way around isn’t always easy. That’s why, in this article, we want to guide you in choosing the ideal summer T-shirt: the perfect one to accompany you on your mountain hikes or other outdoor activities.

Which is better: natural or synthetic fibers?

When it comes to natural and synthetic fibers, the real difference goes far beyond the fabric’s surface: it concerns the materials’ origins, their performance, their sustainability, and how they support every movement, especially during summer days in the mountains.

What type of T-shirt should you choose this summer?

For us at LaMunt, the answer always lies in finding the right balance: between comfort and performance, between sustainability and innovation. In this article, we’ll guide you through the world of textile fibers, both natural and synthetic, to help you understand which one to choose based on your outdoor activities, and show you how they come to life in our garments.

What are natural fibers?

Nowadays, natural fibers account for 40% of the textile fibers used worldwide, while the remaining 60% is composed of synthetic and artificial fibers. After a long period of growth in synthetic materials, which began in the ‘60s with the introduction in the market of fibers such as polyester and acrylic, in recent years there has been a renewed focus on natural fibers, partly due to their role in the sustainability of the supply chains and the communities that produce them.

Natural fibers are materials of biological origin that do not require the use of chemical processes to be transformed into yarns, only mechanical processes such as carding and spinning. They are divided into two categories: animal fibers, obtained from animal fur or derivatives, which are given different names depending on the species (such as merino wool and cashmere); and plant fibers, obtained from seeds, leaves, or stems. Silk, produced by silkworms, is also classified as a natural fiber.

Benefits of natural fibers

Natural fibers are valued for a range of qualities that make them particularly suitable for direct contact with the skin:

Breathability: they promote air circulation and help keep the skin dry.
Softness: they offer a natural and comfortable feel.
Thermoregulation: they adapt to different climatic conditions and temperatures, keeping you cool in summer and warm in the transitional seasons, while they also protect against humidity.

Examples of natural fibers and their uses

Among animal-derived fibers, cashmere, which comes from a breed of goat known as the Hircus Goat, is renowned for its extreme softness and lightness. Meanwhile, merino wool, a fiber obtained from merino sheep and used in some of our garments, is distinguished by its natural technical properties:

It is a hypoallergenic fiber, meaning it doesn’t itch or irritate the skin
It is antibacterial, meaning it doesn’t absorb unpleasant odors and doesn’t require frequent washing.
It can be worn for several days, even during long hikes.

Among plant-based fibers, we find cotton, which has been one of the most widely used materials since ancient times: versatile, breathable and comfortable, although its cultivation requires a high water consumption.

An interesting case is the Tencel Lyocell, a fiber derived from eucalyptus pulp that is chemically processed to become usable in garment production. Despite undergoing an industrial process, it’s considered one of the most environmentally advanced fibers: it’s produced in closed-loop systems, where up to 99% of solvents and water are recovered and reused, significantly reducing the overall impact on both emissions and water.

These fibers take shape in our garments designed for spending days in the mountains, where comfort, functionality, and beauty coexist in harmony.

Among our natural-fiber garments is our Alice Tank Top which is made of premium cashmere blended with natural plant-based fibers, helping to prevent odors and providing a pleasant sensation of dryness all day long. The soft feel on your skin will make your day in the mountains fantastic.

The Alexandra, available in both T-shirt and tank top, combines the lightness of Lyocell with the natural properties of merino wool, offering breathability, moisture management and natural odor resistance, making it ideal even on the most active days or during long treks.

Maria, also available in a T-shirt and tank top version, is made from modal cotton, chosen for its softness and comfort against the skin. The garment’s design also features inserts of cool, breathable fabric on the upper back and sides, to promote even greater ventilation during more dynamic activities.

What are synthetic fibers?

Synthetic fibers are materials created artificially in the laboratories through chemical processes, generally from petroleum-derived polymers. They are designed to meet specific requirements: strength, lightness, elasticity, water resistance and weather protection.

Precisely because of these characteristics, they are now essential in sportswear and technical apparel, where performance makes the difference.

Some examples of these fibers are: polyester, acrylic, nylon, polypropylene and elastan, also known as spandex.

Is polyester natural or synthetic?

Polyester is a synthetic fiber because it’s produced through chemical processes from petroleum-derived materials, not natural sources. It belongs to the PET family, the same material used for plastic bottles. At LaMunt we use recycled polyester, with a recycled content of over 50%. Recycled polyester gives a second life to materials, it offers the same performances as virgin polyester, but with a reduced impact: it requires less energy to produce and helps reduce the extraction of crude oil and natural gas, cutting CO2 emissions by 32% compared to standard polyester.

Is nylon natural or synthetic?

Nylon (polyamide) is also a synthetic fiber, as it’s created entirely in laboratories using chemical compounds and is not derived from plants or animals. At LaMunt we use Econyl®, a regenerated nylon obtained from recycled waste such as fishing nets and used fabrics. It has the same properties as virgin nylon but is 100% recycled.

Examples of synthetic materials and their main advantages

Synthetic fibers are valued for a range of benefits that make them ideal for dynamic, high-performance garments:

Durability: they keep their shape and characteristics over the medium to long term, even after numerous washes.
Ease to take care of: they don’t require special care.
Quick-drying: ideal for intense activities.
Versatility: they can be designed to meet specific technical needs.

The main synthetic fibers in detail:

Polyester

It is one of the most widely used fibers in technical clothing. Resistant to tensile stress, tearing, abrasion, and moisture, it can be washed multiple times without stretching, shrinking or losing its shape. It has an elasticity similar to wool instantly recovering its original shape and remaining wrinkle-free. This fiber requires no ironing, and compared to other materials, it also withstands exposure to sunlight very well. Another advantage is that it dries very quickly thanks to its breathability and lightness.

Our synthetic summer T-shit recommendation is our Lara T-shirt or the Teresa T-shirt, both of which are also available in a sleeveless version, so as a tank top. These are designed for hot summer days, they are breathable, stretchy and soft on the skin, and what’s more, they are made from recycled materials.

As well as being made from 100% recycled polyester, the Teresa is combined with a stretch mesh fabric, also recycled, to ensure optimal temperature regulation. It’s also treated with Polygiene® for odors control, helping you stay fresher longer.

Polyamide (Nylon)

Extremely durable yet soft to the touch, it’s ideal for sportswear and technical apparel. It offers excellent resistance to abrasion, wear and tear thanks to its high stretch, it dries quickly, and is also particularly effective as a barrier against wind and humidity.

A nylon tank top we recommend is the Lisa top, made with Econyl®. The stretch fabric ensures excellent functionality and support. Furthermore, laser cuts on the back provide extra ventilation, ideal for mountain hikes.

The fibers presented below fall into the category of blended fibers: they don’t belong entirely to either the natural or synthetic world, but are designed to complement both. They are often used in combination with other fibers to enhance their qualities, improving comfort, performance, and versatility. It is precisely thanks to these synergies that fabrics can better adapt to different times of the day and the needs of movement.

Polypropylene

A lightweight, breathable, durable, and highly functional fiber, that wicks moisture away from the skin, keeping it dry thanks to its hypoallergenic properties. Thanks to its structure, it contributes to thermoregulation and is particularly suitable for high-intensity activities.

Elastane

The element that ensures freedom of movement. Elastane is extremely elastic and allows garments to adapt to the body without restricting movement, enhancing comfort and fit. It also helps maintain the garment shape and color over time, preventing it from fading.

Acetate

Used primarily in blended fabrics, it is derived from a natural source (plant-based cellulose) but is chemically processed. It is valued for its strength, lightness, softness, and its ability to create flowing, comfortable fabrics.

Blended fibers are created by combining synthetic, artificial and natural fibers. This combination results in more balanced fabrics that are soft on the skin yet durable, stretchy and high-performance.

For example, our Betty T-shirt, which is also available in a sleeveless version, is made from a blend of fibers, including acetate. This garment is very versatile, comfortable, soft and elegant, perfect for both a hike in the mountains and a stroll around town.

Two more items made from mixed fibers that we recommend for summer outdoor activities are the Nadia tank top and the Tina T-shirt, also available in a sleeveless version. Nadia is a lightweight, soft tank top, made from recycled materials such as polyester and polyamide that enhance breathability and, combined with elastane, give it a stretchy feel, ideal for comfortable mountain activities.

Tina is also made from recycled polyester, which, combined with Lyocell, makes the garment breathable, lightweight and stretchy. It has a loose fit and a lightweight feel, perfect for an active day in the mountains.

Advantages and disadvantages of natural and synthetic fibers

Choosing between natural and synthetic fibers means finding the right balance between comfort, performance and awareness. Each material has its strengths and limitations, which become particularly evident in the way we wear our garments on a daily basis.

Advantages of natural fibers

Natural fibers offer numerous advantages, including:

Breathability and thermoregulation, they maintain a balanced temperature, retaining heat when needed and keeping you cool on warmer days. At the same time, they absorb moisture and release it quickly to the outside, helping to keep you feeling dry.
Sustainability due to reduced laundry requirements, as natural fibers absorb far fewer odors than synthetic ones, resulting in reduced water and energy consumption.
Quality and durability allowing garments to be worn for longer periods of time.

Disadvantages of natural fibers

There are also some disadvantages to natural fabrics:

Higher production costs, linked to agricultural factors, seasonality and greater labor intensity.
Their properties are static, meaning they cannot be improved without the use of chemicals, therefore, if one wishes to modify the natural structure of the fiber, it requires treatments or blends to achieve specific performance.
Over time, they may deteriorate, they are less resistant to frequent washing, being more delicate, and highly susceptible to biological agents such as mold and moths.

Advantages of synthetic fibers

Synthetic fibers were created with a specific goal: to meet performance needs.

Among the main advantages are:

Production efficiency: as they are made from petroleum derivatives using standardized industrial processes, this allows high-performance materials to be produced at generally more affordable costs. At LaMunt, we have chosen to evolve this process using recycled fibers instead of virgin ones, transforming existing resources into high-performance technical fabrics whilst minimizing our environmental impact.
Design versatility: since during production, it is possible to tailor the fabric’s characteristics, creating more elastic, lightweight, durable or structured garments based on their use.
Improvable properties: thanks to chemistry, fabric properties can be engineered to be waterproof, breathable and wrinkle resistant.
High weather resistance: as these materials withstand rain, wind, sun and humidity well and they do not lose their shape.
Resistance to living organisms: as they are synthetic materials, they do not provide a food source for microorganisms or insects and are less prone to biological deterioration.
Exceptional breathability combined with quick-drying properties: this feature makes them ideal for travelers, as it allows garments to be washed conveniently by hand and have them ready to wear in no time.

Disadvantages of synthetic fibers

Alongside their performance benefits, there are also some disadvantages to consider:

They release microplastics during washing.
They tend to retain unpleasant odors, as unless specifically treated, they encourage the proliferation of bacteria caused by sweat.
Potential allergies and skin irritations, an increasing number of people are developing allergic reactions or irritations upon contact with synthetic fibers.
Static electricity buildup, synthetic materials tend to become electrically charged, causing minor discomforts such as shocks.

Which is better? Natural or synthetic fibers?

When it comes to performance and sustainability, there is no single answer to the question “which is better?”. The choice depends on the context, how you move, and what you’re looking for in a garment.
For outdoor apparel, particularly during intense or high-sweat activities, synthetic fibers offer high performance: they’re lightweight, durable, and quickly manage moisture. In variable weather or during long outings, however, natural fibers such as merino wool adapt better, thanks to their ability to regulate temperature and maintain freshness even after many hours of use.

When sustainability comes into play, the picture becomes more nuanced. Natural fibers have a lower environmental impact than synthetic ones, but recycled synthetic versions and new innovations are increasingly reducing their impact.

Durability is also a key factor: while synthetic fibers are designed to last, natural fibers, if high quality and well-maintained, can also last a long time, offering a more natural comfort.

At LaMunt, we believe the best choice comes from finding the right balance: there is no such thing as a perfect fiber, but rather the right combination for you.

Tips:

Today, textile innovation is moving towards recycled fibers and bio-based materials. The most conscious choice isn’t just about “which fiber”, but how long we’ll use that garment. That’s why it’s essential to look after your clothes by washing them correctly to preserve their original condition.

Therefore, making conscious choices also means this: prioritizing versatile, durable garments designed to last, reducing your environmental impact without sacrificing freedom of movement.

Discover all our tips on how to extend the life of your clothes in the dedicated section of our blog https://www.lamunt.com/product-care.

A brief summary of the main differences between natural and synthetic fibers

To really understand the difference between natural and synthetic fibers, we’ve put together a simple, straightforward comparison using an intuitive table with various criteria. This will help you choose the right garments with the most suitable fibers based on your activity and how you want to feel.

Behind each fiber, in fact, lies not only a technical characteristic, but also a different feel.

Merino wool:

One of the most complete natural fibers, highly breathable, and ranks among the best odor-resistant materials, as it absorbs up to 30% of its own weight in moisture without feeling wet, thereby limiting the growth of bacteria. In terms of durability, this fiber doesn’t lose its shape or crease. It has a low environmental impact as it is a renewable fiber that respects the well-being of animals and the planet. The cost varies depending on the fiber’s fineness but is generally medium-high. It offers a high comfort as it is soft, thermoregulating, and capable of maintaining freshness through its breathability even in high temperatures, while in transitional seasons such as autumn and spring it helps insulate the body and maintain a constant temperature.

Cashmere:

Synonymous with lightness and extreme softness. Its fine fibers allow for good breathability and natural regulation of body temperature, allowing excess moisture and heat to escape, preventing that sweaty feeling. Cashmere’s durability may be considered low due to its very fine and delicate fibers, but with proper care, it retains its quality over time; therefore, its durability is closely linked to care. Its environmental impact is high due to intensive farming in some regions, which leads to desertification and soil degradation, and its processing requires significant water resources. Its cost is high due to the limited availability of the fiber and high labour costs. As for comfort, it is considered one of the most comfortable fibers due to its sensation of extreme softness, lightness and warmth against the skin.

Cotton:

A simple and versatile natural fiber, valued for its breathability, which allows air to circulate, keeping the skin cool and dry. During intense activity, however, it tends to absorb moisture and remain damp. It has medium resistance to wear and frequent washing; in fact, it retains its shape although it lacks elasticity and tends to crease or shrink. Its environmental impact is quite high due to the intensive use of water and chemicals. Its cost in terms of raw materials is relatively low compared to other fibers, although the final price depends on quality and processing.

Tencel Lyocell:

Represents a balance between innovation and naturalness. It is renowned for its exceptional breathability and moisture management; in fact, thanks to the structure of its fibers, it quickly absorbs sweat and releases it to the outside, regulating body temperature and preventing the growth of bacteria. It is highly resistant and durable; indeed, as a robust fiber, it maintains its solid structure even when wet, holding up well to frequent washing. Its environmental impact is low. It is considered one of the most sustainable man-made fibers and requires less water than other fibers. Furthermore, the organic solvent used to process the fiber is almost entirely reused. Production costs are medium, but may tend to be higher due to its sustainability. Comfort is high because this fiber produces soft, silky and lightweight fabrics.

Polyester:

Generally speaking, this fiber is not as breathable as natural fibers, but its breathability can vary depending on how it is produced. In fact, manufacturers create blends with other technical fibers or use special constructions that improve airflow and breathability. It is known for its high strength, as it is an extremely robust material designed to last and maintain its aesthetic characteristics over time. The environmental impact of recycled polyester is much lower than that of virgin polyester, reducing oil extraction, CO2 emissions and energy consumption; however, it releases microplastics during washing and is not easily recyclable. Its cost is considered medium, as it is higher than that of virgin polyester due to waste collection and sorting. In terms of comfort, it is high thanks to its durability, lightness and ease of care, although it may not offer the sensation of natural coolness.

Polyamide:

This is the technical fiber par excellence. It offers good breathability and excellent moisture management, making it ideal for sportswear. It also has exceptional resistance to abrasion, tearing and wear; indeed, it is a durable and elastic material that retains its original shape. Its environmental impact is higher, as it is derived from energy-intensive fossil resources. Its cost is high due to the raw materials and energy costs involved in its manufacturing process. It is considered a comfortable material for technical and sportswear thanks to a combination of lightness, elasticity and softness.

Polypropylene:

It is known for its extremely high breathability and exceptional moisture-management properties; in fact, it doesn’t absorb water but rather wicks it away. It offers excellent resistance to abrasion, chemicals and moisture; it is an extremely functional and durable fabric. Its environmental impact is moderate thanks to low-temperature production and high recyclability, but it is derived from fossil fuels. Its cost is low as it is among the most affordable fibers due to a simple production process and low-cost raw materials. In terms of comfort in sportswear, it scores highly as it is one of the lightest fibers available and is soft to the touch.

Elastane:

This fiber is not particularly breathable as it tends to block airflow and does not absorb sweat, but when blended with other fabrics it can become more breathable. It is renowned for its high strength and durability, particularly against abrasion, it does not fray easily and retains its shape over time. On the other hand, the environmental impact of its virgin version is high due to its petroleum-based nature, which makes it difficult to recycle. Its cost is also high due to its complex production process, which requires advanced chemistry. It offers a high level of comfort thanks to its elasticity, lightness and softness.

In brief, the main difference between natural and synthetic fibers stems from their origin – natural fibers are derived from plant or animal sources, while synthetic fibers are made through chemical processes derived from petroleum or recycled fabrics – but this translates into different sensations, performance, and impact. Natural fibers offer comfort, breathability and a more authentic feel against the skin; synthetic fibers precisely meet performance requirements, ensuring durability and functionality.

The choice is never absolute: it’s a personal balance, which changes with the rhythm of your days and the way you experience the outdoors.

FAQ: Natural fibers vs synthetic fibers

Why are synthetic fibers so widely used?

Because they offer high technical performance, are durable, lightweight, elastic, waterproof (and therefore dry quickly), and easy to care for: essential characteristics for outdoor clothing.

Are natural fibers more eco-friendly?

There is no clear-cut answer. Their environmental impact depends on their production: some natural fibers, like cotton, require a lot of water, while others, such as wool or Lyocell, can be more sustainable if managed responsibly.

Can synthetic fabrics be recycled?

Yes, many synthetic fabrics, such as polyester, can be recycled. However, recycling depends on the available local infrastructure and the composition of the garment, as not all synthetic fibers are easily recyclable; for example, blended fabrics are more difficult to process. For this reason, we have developed some of our products using a single type of fiber, in order to make recycling more efficient. To learn more, click here (https://www.lamunt.com/monomaterial-fabric).