Sherpa vs fleece, which is a better choice for outerwear? And what are the differences?
Sherpa is a type of fabric that is often used for jackets and other outerwear. It is made from a wool blend and is brushed on one side to create a soft, furry feel. Sherpa is also very warm and can provide a lot of insulation.
Fleece, on the other hand, is a synthetic fabric that is made from polyester. It is often used for activewear because it is moisture-wicking and quick-drying.
Let’s find out more about the unique qualities of sherpa and fleece and how it is used in the fashion industry.
What is Sherpa?
Sherpa fabric has two sides, one with a smooth knit and the other with a plush, silky pile. Its fuzzy side gets its nap from being rubbed with a wire brush, much like all fleece fabrics do. However, crimping the free fibers after brushing gives sherpa its distinctive wool-like appearance.
Sherpa is a synthetic fabric, which is typically made of polyester. It is intended to resemble shearling, which is lambskin with the wool still attached, in both appearance and feel. It typically has a warm, slightly flexible quality to it, as many polyester textiles do.
What is Fleece?
There are many different weights and kinds of fleece cloth. All fleece fabrics are brushed on at least one side to pull fibers out of the weave. This creates a velvety, soft pile, which gives fleece its characteristic fluffy nap.
Most fleece fabrics are artificial and made of PET (Polyethylene terephthalate, a kind of polyester). Although natural fiber fabrics typically cost more than synthetics, you can also buy them made of cotton or even bamboo.
9 Varieties Of Fleece
1. Cotton Fleece
It is primarily used in athletic apparel and is comprised of cotton or a fiber blend. It is soft, lightweight, and breathable, making it an ideal choice for clothing and home decor. Cotton fleece is also known for its absorbency, making it a good choice for towels and bedding. In addition, cotton fleece is easy to care for and can be tumble dried on low heat.
2. Microfleece
Microfleece is a type of fabric made from polyester that is known for being lightweight and soft. It is often used in clothing and bedding, as well as in products such as blankets and sleeping bags. Microfleece is also popular for its ability to wick away moisture, making it a good choice for activewear or for people who tend to sweat at night.
In addition, microfleece is often used as a lining for other types of fabric, such as denim, to add an extra layer of warmth. While microfleece does have some drawbacks – it is not as durable as some other fabrics and can pill over time – it remains a popular choice for many people due to its unique combination of properties.
3. Polyester Fleece
Polyester fleece is a synthetic fabric made from polyester fiber. It is often used to make clothing and other textiles, such as blankets and throws. Polyester fleece is known for being lightweight and warm, making it a popular choice for cold weather apparel.
It is also less likely to shrink or wrinkle than other fabrics. Polyester fleece can be machine-washed and -dried, but it is important to follow the care instructions on the garment label.
Overall, polyester fleece is a versatile fabric that is easy to care for and can be used in a variety of applications.
4. Lycra-spandex Fiber
Lycra-spandex fiber is a synthetic fiber that is known for its exceptional elasticity. It is often used in sportswear and other garments where a snug fit is desired. The fiber is usually made from polyurethane, a polymer that can be processed to achieve a variety of different properties.
For instance, the addition of different chemicals can make the fiber more elastic or less likely to absorb moisture. Lycra-spandex fiber is also used in a variety of industrial applications, such as automobile seat covers and tires. In recent years, the fiber has also been used in medical prosthetics, such as artificial limbs.
5. Arctic Fleece
Arctic Fleece is a type of synthetic insulation that was originally developed for use in cold weather environments. Unlike traditional insulating materials, Arctic Fleece is highly compressible and lightweight, making it ideal for use in garments and footwear.
Additionally, Arctic Fleece is highly breathable and quick-drying, making it an excellent choice for activewear. In recent years, Arctic Fleece has become increasingly popular as a sustainable alternative to down feathers, as it does not require the plucking of live birds.
When properly cared for, Arctic Fleece can last for many years, making it a cost-effective choice for those looking for long-lasting insulation.
6. Sherpa
Sherpa is a type of strong, thick woolen fabric that is traditionally used in clothing worn in cold weather. The fabric is named after the Sherpa people of Nepal, who are known for their expert mountaineering skills. Sherpa fabric is usually made from a blend of sheep’s wool and synthetic fibers, which makes it both warm and durable.
It is often used to make jackets, vests, and other outerwear, as well as blankets and other bedding. Sherpa fabric is also becoming increasingly popular as a material for making everyday items like bean bags, throws, and even dog beds.
Thanks to its unique properties, sherpa is quickly becoming a favorite fabric for people who want to stay warm and cozy all winter long.
7. French Terry
French terry is a type of knit fabric that is typically made from cotton. It has a looped surface on one side and a flat surface on the other. The loops give the fabric a textured look and feel, while the flat surface provides a more smooth and sleek appearance.
French terry is often used to make clothing, towels, and other household items. It is prized for its comfort and durability, and it is also relatively easy to care for. When purchasing French terry fabric, it is important to pay attention to the weight and thickness of the fabric. This will determine how the fabric will behave once it is made into a garment or other item.
Sherpa Fabric vs. Fleece Fabric
There are many different types of fabric on the market today, and it can be challenging to decide which one is right for your needs. Two popular types of fabric are sherpa and fleece. Both of these fabrics have their unique benefits, so it is imperative to understand the difference between them before making a purchase.
Sherpa fabric is derived from polyester, making it very strong and durable. It is also lined with a soft material, making it very comfortable to wear. Sherpa fabric is often used in jackets and other outerwear, as it is very effective at trapping heat and keeping the wearer warm.
Fleece fabric is also made from polyester, but it is not as durable as sherpa fabric. However, it is much lighter and more breathable, making it a smart choice for activewear.
Which is right for you?
Both fabrics have a soft, plush feel that is ideal for garments and home decor items. However, there are some key differences between the two fabrics that you should be aware of. Sherpa fabric is made from 100% polyester, while fleece can be made from a variety of materials including polyester, cotton, and wool.
As a result, Sherpa is typically more affordable than fleece. In terms of warmth, Sherpa is typically warmer than fleece due to its dense pile. However, fleece is more breathable than Sherpa, making it a better choice for activewear and layering garments. When it comes to care, both fabrics are easy to machine wash and tumble dry. So ultimately, the best fabric for your project will depend on your individual needs and preferences.