When it comes to gym attire, most people focus on the usual rules: wear proper shoes, moisture-wicking fabrics, and supportive gear. But experts say there’s one surprising thing you should never wear to the gym — and it’s not what you think: cotton clothing.
While cotton might seem like a harmless and comfortable choice, fitness experts warn that it’s one of the worst fabrics you can wear for workouts. Why? Because cotton holds onto moisture like a sponge. Unlike synthetic fabrics designed to wick sweat away from your skin, cotton absorbs your sweat and keeps it trapped next to your body.
This leads to several problems:
- Chafing and irritation: Wet cotton can rub against your skin during movement, leading to painful friction, rashes, or even skin infections.
- Bacteria buildup: Sweat-soaked cotton becomes a breeding ground for bacteria, increasing your risk of body acne or fungal infections.
- Heavy and uncomfortable: As cotton soaks up more sweat, it becomes heavier, making your clothes sag or cling uncomfortably to your body during exercise.
- Poor temperature regulation: Since cotton doesn’t dry quickly, you can become too cold after a workout, especially if you’re in an air-conditioned gym or heading outside in cooler weather.
Surprisingly, this advice extends to more than just T-shirts — cotton socks and underwear are also big no-nos. Damp cotton socks can lead to blisters, while cotton underwear may cause discomfort or hygiene issues during intense exercise.
So what should you wear instead? Look for activewear made with synthetic materials like polyester, nylon, spandex, or blends that include moisture-wicking technology. These fabrics keep you dry, reduce friction, and help regulate your body temperature more effectively.
It’s easy to overlook something as basic as fabric choice, especially when prioritizing fit or fashion, but experts say this one simple switch — ditching cotton — can make your workouts more comfortable, more effective, and safer for your skin.
