Wicking properties refer to a fabric's ability to quickly draw moisture away from the skin to the surface of the material where it can evaporate. Fabrics with good wicking properties help keep the wearer dry and comfortable by reducing moisture build-up. This makes them ideal for activewear and sports clothing.
Moisture wicking happens when synthetic microfibers draw(or wick) the moisture from the skin and force the moisture to the surface where it is released. Synthetic microfibers have hydrophobic (water hating) properties whereas cotton has hydrophilic (water loving) properties. http://CoolWickingPJs.com has wonderful moisture wicking pajamas that really work
From what I have found out, the main reason polyester fabrics are "moisture wicking" is because polyester is "hydrophobic" -- it resists absorption of water. This means is absorbs less and typically dries faster. I'm not 100% sure that this is the full answer, but I think it is a start.
Viscose fabric is breathable and does not retain sweat like synthetic fabrics do. It is lightweight and has good moisture-wicking properties, making it comfortable to wear in warm weather.
Rayon fabric is breathable and has good moisture-wicking properties, making it comfortable to wear in warm weather. However, it may not be as breathable as natural fibers like cotton or linen.
Helpful textiles include fabrics that are durable, breathable, moisture-wicking, hypoallergenic, and easy to care for. Examples include cotton for its natural breathability, merino wool for its moisture-wicking properties, bamboo fabric for its softness and hypoallergenic nature, and polyester for its durability and easy maintenance.
Wool wicks moisture.
The ability of a substance to draw another substance into it is known as capillary action, capillarity, capillary motion, or wicking. The time it takes for a liquied to be drawn to a fabric material refers to the wicking time.
There are a varity of moisture wicking fabrics available on the market. Most of these are polyester bledns that do a better job of wicking moisture away versus original cotton. The original moiture wicking fabric was created by Dupont and is called Coolmax. Other companies have developed other fabrics such as dri-release, Underarmour and dri-fit. There are many places where you can find these products on the web. CoolClothingUSA.com offers a nice selection at a reasonable price. Use of nanoparticles in moisture wicking clothing and other products for bacterial and related odour control is extremely controversial, has been likened to asbestos and could be a serious future health hazard. Please see, for example, http://www.asbestos.net/news/could-nanoparticles-be-the-next-asbestos.html For safety it would be advisable to use moisture wicking clothing that does not incorporate nanoparticles into the technology. The first paragraph above was obviously written as an advertisement for a particular online retailer. Caveat emptor. Do your own checking on the use of nanoparticles. No retail outlet will have a clue about this kind of issue.
Well, probably a whole lot wicking fabric!
Nanoparticles are used in socks for their antimicrobial and moisture-wicking properties. They help to reduce odor-causing bacteria and keep feet dry and comfortable by enhancing the performance of the fabric.
Aloe vera fabric is a textile that is infused with aloe vera extract during the production process. This fabric is known for its softness, moisture-wicking properties, and potential skin-soothing benefits when worn. Garments made from aloe vera fabric are often marketed as being gentle on the skin and promoting comfort.