Hemp and clothing: cool, breathable, and resistant
Uses, processing and history of hemp in clothing
A particular fabric
When we buy clothing, it is good to make sure that it is made with specific materials. Some prefer clothes in wool or cotton, others in linen, silk or made of synthetic fibers.
Those who want a cool fabric for the summer can focus on linen, those who prefer elegance look for silk garments above all, sportsmen make a lot of use of technical fabrics that allow maximum breathability. On the other hand, anyone is rarely interested in what is probably the coolest, most breathable, and resistant fabric available on the textile market: hemp.
The miraculous properties of hemp
Hemp is a very versatile plant, which allows wide use in many sectors, not just that of clothing. From the paper industry to the naval world, from construction to furniture, hemp fiber has long represented a real gold mine for craftsmen who operated in very different sectors.
The importance of hemp as a textile fiber has always been very high, so much so that this plant was referred to as green gold, given the income it granted.
But how is a fabric of this type made? At the base of hemp fabrics there is the long fiber that is obtained from the plant and which is characterized by a high resistance to both tearing and wear and the special feature of keeping you cool in summer and warm in winter. For this reason, hemp fabric guarantees a wide range of use, both for furniture and clothing.
Furthermore, hemp guarantees a marked resistance to infrared and ultraviolet rays, protecting the skin much more than any other fabric.
It’s also completely natural, as this plant does not need pesticides or any other chemicals to grow. Finally, hemp fabrics have antibacterial and antifungal properties, thus ensuring maximum hygiene and safety even for the little ones
Hemp for a green future
The qualities of this extraordinary plant, however, are not limited to the characteristics of the fiber, but start right from cultivation. Unlike cotton, which requires a large number of herbicides to grow healthy and lush, as well as a high amount of water, hemp only needs simple soil and little water, ensuring full respect for the surrounding environment.
The growing interest in the environment and the green choices made by young and old people have allowed an increasingly massive return to the use of hemp fiber. This great fabric made its first appearance in the world of fashion through eco-friendly bags, which showcased the raw material to highlight the peculiarity of the product.
Today, in addition to clothing completely made of hemp, there are many garments with mixed percentages, especially hemp and wool for winter garments. These clothes are easily available in any eco-friendly store or online shop specialising in hemp products.
Massimo has a BA degree in psychology (Unipd) and a MA in Web Marketing and Digital Communication (IUSVE). He’s currently working as a digital marketing consultant. He’s deeply interested in neuromarketing and sustainable development and firmly believes in the future of Atmosphera lab.