This 180gsm pure polyester mesh from Tofly is designed for sportswear.

As such synthetic fabrics are used in a range of product lines, companies are continuously pushing for better performance. To illustrate, variants for sports apparel and outerwear are being treated to protect against fungi, and UV and infrared rays in addition to having a moisture-absorbent or -wicking quality.

Several designs adopted in winter clothes boast different attributes on each side. The front highlights water and wind resistance, while the back portion is insulated.

Products are also being made to withstand shrinking, wrinkling, tearing and pilling. Further, many now emphasize flame-retardant, oil-resistant, and anti-static and -bacterial features.

Factories typically utilize at least one kind of coating for enhancing functionality. The usual substances applied onto the surface are PVC, EVA, PU, TPU and Teflon.

Mainland China-produced polyester fabrics come in knitted and woven configurations. They generally measure 56 to 60in wide, although 72in models are also available.

Suitable for garments, bags, luggage, umbrellas, toys and home textiles, variants may contain cotton, rayon, viscose or spandex. Polyester-cotton types often have a 65:35 or 60:40 ratio.

Materials are mainly procured in Shanghai, and Guangdong, Jiangsu and Zhejiang provinces. A number of businesses source from Taiwan and South Korea.

Companies offer plain and decorated versions of the synthetic fabrics. Releases are either yarn- or piece-dyed. Patterns are applied via transfer printing or silk-screening. Floral motifs remain popular. Herringbone and animal-skin themes such as tiger stripes and leopard spots are being employed as well.

The fiber quality and mix are the major price differentiators. In addition, the construction, weight and finishing treatment adopted influence quotes.

Selections for the low end do not exceed $1.50 per meter and come primarily in pure polyester. Those blended with 5 to 10 percent spandex belong to this category as well. Materials are domestically sourced.

Chiffon, taffeta, satin, twill and mesh versions are available. They weigh between 70 and 160gsm. A PVC or EVA coating is utilized for water, shrink or tear resistance.

Midrange products are valued at $1.50 to $2.50. While 100 percent polyester types are still offered, many also have spandex, cotton, rayon or viscose content. Most factories employ local inputs.

Models are 100 to 300gsm, and come in a pongee, dobby, jacquard, suede or fleece construction. Designs are yarn-dyed and may feature needlework. They usually absorb moisture, and withstand water, wind, wrinkling and shrinking. PU and TPU are the common finishing options.

In the high end, releases can be made of pure polyester or polyester-wool. The fibers used are from well-known local brandsor imported. Quotes exceed $2.50. Jacquard, suede and fleece fabrics weighing 150 to 600gsm are among the priciest variants. Yarn dyeing and embroidery are adopted.

A layer of PU, TPU or Teflon renders selections resistant to water, oil, wrinkling, pilling, bacteria, fungi, static and infrared rays. Products are flame-retardant and UV-protective as well.

Upscale synthetic fabrics conform to EN, REACH and Oeko-Tex Standard 100 requirements. Many companies maintained quotes at current levels within the past quarter. Prices are expected to remain stable barring a sharp rise in yarn values.

Product gallery

Haining Huayi Textile Co. Ltd

Model: HY05-07
MOQ: 1,000m
Delivery: 7 days
Delivery: 15 to 20 days
Description: Knitted coral fleece; 100% polyester; 300gsm; 152cm wide; packed in rolls; SGS-tested for REACH compliance

Haining Huayi Textile Co. Ltd

Model: TJ010
MOQ: 1,000m
Delivery: 15 to 20 days
Description: Knitted suede; 100% polyester; 130gsm; 152cm wide; packed in rolls

Haining Huayi Textile Co. Ltd

Model: Y035
MOQ: 1,000m
Delivery: 15 to 20 days
Description: Knitted sherpa fleece; 100% polyester; 400gsm; 152cm wide; packed in rolls

Tofly Textile Co. Ltd

Model: T7-4
MOQ: 500kg
Delivery: 20 days
Description: Knitted mesh; 100% polyester; 160gsm; 180cm wide; for sportswear