--- title: "Performance Fabrics: Stretch, Mesh & Softshell" description: "Moisture-wicking jersey, stretch jersey, mesh and softshell compared: breathability, stretch, wind resistance and branding for sports headwear." url: https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/performance-fabrics/ language: en-US updated: 2026-10-21T14:36:39+00:00 alternates: fr: https://mrbalaclava.com/fr/materiaux/tissus-techniques.md de: https://mrbalaclava.com/de/materialien/funktionsstoffe.md es: https://mrbalaclava.com/es/materiales/tejidos-tecnicos.md publisher: Mr Balaclava (https://mrbalaclava.com/) --- Material Library · Performance # Performance Fabrics "Performance fabric" describes a job, not a fibre: moving sweat, stretching with the body, venting heat or resisting wind. The fabrics on this page are knits and bonded fabrics chosen for those jobs in sports balaclavas, neck gaiters, helmet liners, caps and ski wear. [Request a quote](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) Browse the fabrics Updated 23 October 2026 ![Close-up of a dark mesh fabric with small, even holes](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/perforated-mesh-fabric-1024x1024.webp) - **50 pcs** Minimum order - **14 days** Standard lead time - **OEKO-TEX®** Fabrics from certified mills - **ISO 9001** Certified (Eco Jersey Limited) - **Sedex** Member (Eco Jersey Limited) Performance fabrics ## Performance fabrics we work with Open a fabric to see what is typical for it and what we confirm for your order. - ![Close-up of white polyester single jersey with fine knitted stitch columns](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/polyester-jersey-white-close-up-768x512.webp) Performance Fabrics ### [Polyester Jersey](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/polyester-jersey/) A light single-knit polyester with a smooth face. It dries fast, takes sublimation in full colour and is usually finished to wick sweat, so it is… Single jerseyLightweight **Warmth** Low **Breathability** Very high **Stretch** Moderate [Full specification](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/polyester-jersey/)[Get a quote in this fabric](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) - ![Close-up of black polyester-spandex stretch jersey with a soft sheen](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/polyester-elastane-stretch-jersey-black-close-up-768x512.webp) Performance Fabrics ### [Polyester/Spandex Stretch Jersey (SHY Series)](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/polyester-elastane-stretch-jersey/) Our SHY series stretch jersey: 88% polyester and 12% spandex, knitted for four-way stretch and recovery. Close-fitting, smooth, quick-drying and sublimation-friendly, it is the fabric used… Single jerseyMidweight **Warmth** Moderate **Breathability** High **Stretch** Very high [Full specification](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/polyester-elastane-stretch-jersey/)[Get a quote in this fabric](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) - ![Close-up of white knitted polyester mesh with regular open holes](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/polyester-mesh-white-close-up-768x512.webp) Performance Fabrics ### [Polyester Mesh](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/polyester-mesh/) An open knit with clearly visible holes that lets air straight through. It is used for vents and breathable panels in balaclavas, the back panels of… MeshLightweight **Warmth** Low **Breathability** Very high **Stretch** Moderate [Full specification](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/polyester-mesh/)[Get a quote in this fabric](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) - ![Close-up of sky-blue bird's-eye mesh with tiny eyelets in a diagonal pattern](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/birds-eye-mesh-sky-blue-close-up-768x512.webp) Performance Fabrics ### [Bird’s-Eye Mesh](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/birds-eye-mesh/) A polyester knit with a pattern of tiny holes, named after its bird’s-eye look. It lets air through and dries fast, so it is used for… Bird’s-eye meshLightweight **Warmth** Low **Breathability** Very high **Stretch** Moderate [Full specification](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/birds-eye-mesh/)[Get a quote in this fabric](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) - ![Close-up of sheer black power mesh with tiny hexagonal holes](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/power-mesh-black-close-up-768x512.webp) Performance Fabrics ### [Power Mesh](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/power-mesh/) A fine, sheer stretch mesh with strong recovery. It is used as breathable stretch panels and liners: ventilation zones in sports balaclavas and base layers, and… Power meshLightweight **Warmth** Low **Breathability** Very high **Stretch** Very high [Full specification](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/power-mesh/)[Get a quote in this fabric](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) - ![Close-up of grey 3D spacer mesh with hexagonal holes and visible depth](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/3d-spacer-mesh-grey-close-up-768x512.webp) Performance Fabrics ### [3D Spacer Mesh](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/3d-spacer-mesh/) Two knitted faces held apart by upright yarns, giving a thick, springy mesh that air flows through. It is used for the ventilated mouth and nose… 3D spacer meshMidweight **Warmth** Moderate **Breathability** Very high **Stretch** Low [Full specification](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/3d-spacer-mesh/)[Get a quote in this fabric](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) - ![Close-up of charcoal softshell face with water droplets beading](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/softshell-bonded-fabric-charcoal-grey-close-up-768x512.webp) Performance Fabrics ### [Softshell (Bonded Performance Fabric)](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/softshell-bonded-fabric/) A stretch outer fabric bonded to a soft fleece or knit backing, usually with a water-repellent finish. It helps keep out wind and light rain while… SoftshellHeavyweight **Warmth** High **Breathability** Moderate **Stretch** High [Full specification](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/softshell-bonded-fabric/)[Get a quote in this fabric](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) At a glance ## Performance fabrics compared Typical characteristics relative to the other fabrics in the library. | Fabric | Construction | Weight class | Warmth | Breathability | Stretch | Moisture management | Typical products | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | [Technical Grid Fleece](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/technical-grid-fleece/) | Grid (technical) fleece | Midweight | High | High | High | High | Balaclavas, Ski wear | | [Recycled Polyester Knit (RPET)](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/recycled-polyester-knit/) | Single jersey, Interlock | Light to heavy (varies) | Moderate | High | Moderate | High | Balaclavas, Ski wear, Caps & hats | | [Polyester Jersey](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/polyester-jersey/) | Single jersey | Lightweight | Low | Very high | Moderate | Very high | Balaclavas, Beanies, Scarves, Ski wear, Caps & hats | | [Polyester/Spandex Stretch Jersey (SHY Series)](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/polyester-elastane-stretch-jersey/) | Single jersey | Midweight | Moderate | High | Very high | Very high | Balaclavas, Ski wear, Caps & hats | | [Polyester Mesh](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/polyester-mesh/) | Mesh | Lightweight | Low | Very high | Moderate | High | Balaclavas, Ski wear, Caps & hats | | [Bird’s-Eye Mesh](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/birds-eye-mesh/) | Bird’s-eye mesh | Lightweight | Low | Very high | Moderate | Very high | Balaclavas, Caps & hats | | [Power Mesh](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/power-mesh/) | Power mesh | Lightweight | Low | Very high | Very high | High | Balaclavas, Ski wear | | [3D Spacer Mesh](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/3d-spacer-mesh/) | 3D spacer mesh | Midweight | Moderate | Very high | Low | High | Balaclavas, Ski wear, Caps & hats | | [Softshell (Bonded Performance Fabric)](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/softshell-bonded-fabric/) | Softshell | Heavyweight | High | Moderate | High | Moderate | Balaclavas, Ski wear, Caps & hats | | [Recycled Polyester Sock Yarn (RPET)](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/recycled-polyester-sock-yarn/) | Single jersey, Rib knit | Lightweight | Moderate | High | High | Very high | Socks | | [Polyester/Nylon Performance Sock Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/polyester-nylon-performance-sock-yarn/) | Rib knit, Mesh, Terry loop | Lightweight | Moderate | High | Very high | Very high | Socks | | [Mesh Vent Sock Panel](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/mesh-vent-sock-panel/) | Mesh | Lightweight | Low | Very high | High | High | Socks | | [Graduated Compression Sock Knit](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/graduated-compression-sock-knit/) | Rib knit | Midweight | Moderate | High | Very high | High | Socks | | [Recycled Polyester Cap Twill](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/recycled-polyester-cap-fabric/) | Woven, Twill | Midweight | Low | High | Low | High | Caps & hats | | [Polyester Cap Mesh](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/polyester-cap-mesh/) | Mesh | Lightweight | – | Very high | Moderate | High | Caps & hats | Matching fabric to activity ## Which performance matters for your product Few fabrics do everything. Decide which job comes first. - **High-output sport** Running, cycling and training need light, wicking jersey or stretch jersey, with mesh where the face or head overheats. - **Close fit** Balaclavas under helmets and neck gaiters need elastane for four-way stretch and recovery, so they stay in place without pressure. - **Wind and weather** Exposed snow sports and outdoor work need a bonded fabric such as softshell, or a wind-blocking panel over the most exposed areas. - **Printing** Most performance knits are polyester-based and take sublimation, which keeps prints flexible and breathable. Related fabrics ## Other performance fabrics in the library These fabrics are also used for performance products and are described in full on their main family page. - ![Technical Grid Fleece: close-up of the brushed grid back of royal-blue technical fleece](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/technical-grid-fleece-royal-blue-close-up-768x512.webp) ### [Technical Grid Fleece](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/technical-grid-fleece/) A performance fleece with a brushed grid on the back: the raised squares hold warmth while the channels… - ![Recycled Polyester Knit (RPET): close-up of slate-blue recycled polyester jersey with fine knitted stitches](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/recycled-polyester-knit-slate-blue-close-up-768x512.webp) ### [Recycled Polyester Knit (RPET)](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/recycled-polyester-knit/) Polyester knitted from recycled feedstock, usually post-consumer PET bottles. It generally performs much like virgin polyester: quick-drying, durable… - ![Recycled Polyester Sock Yarn (RPET): two unlabelled cones of light grey melange recycled polyester sock yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/recycled-polyester-sock-yarn-light-grey-melange-close-up-768x512.webp) ### [Recycled Polyester Sock Yarn (RPET)](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/recycled-polyester-sock-yarn/) Polyester spun from recycled plastic bottles, used in place of some new polyester in sport and everyday socks.… - ![Polyester/Nylon Performance Sock Yarn: two unlabelled cones of bright royal-blue polyester and nylon performance sock yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/polyester-nylon-performance-sock-yarn-bright-royal-blue-close-up-768x512.webp) ### [Polyester/Nylon Performance Sock Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/polyester-nylon-performance-sock-yarn/) Polyester and nylon with elastane, chosen for sport socks: it helps move sweat away from the skin, dries… - ![Mesh Vent Sock Panel: close-up of a white mesh vent sock knit](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/mesh-vent-sock-panel-white-close-up-768x512.webp) ### [Mesh Vent Sock Panel](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/mesh-vent-sock-panel/) An open, breathable zone knitted into the top of the foot or the sides of a sock. It… - ![Graduated Compression Sock Knit: close-up of dense black compression sock knit](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/graduated-compression-sock-knit-black-close-up-768x512.webp) ### [Graduated Compression Sock Knit](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/graduated-compression-sock-knit/) A knit with zoned tension: firmest at the ankle and easing towards the top of the leg, built… - ![Close-up of stone-grey recycled polyester cap twill](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/recycled-polyester-cap-fabric-stone-grey-close-up-768x512.webp) ### [Recycled Polyester Cap Twill](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/recycled-polyester-cap-fabric/) A polyester twill made from recycled plastic bottles. It generally behaves like standard polyester: quick-drying, colour-fast and well… - ![Polyester Cap Mesh: close-up of white polyester trucker-cap mesh with open holes](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/polyester-cap-mesh-white-close-up-768x512.webp) ### [Polyester Cap Mesh](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/polyester-cap-mesh/) An open, breathable mesh used for the back panels of trucker caps and the vents of sport caps.… Products ## Where performance fabrics are used Performance knits are the base of sports and outdoor headwear. - [Custom balaclavas](https://mrbalaclava.com/balaclavas/) Private-label balaclava and ski mask manufacturer in Sialkot, Pakistan. Knitted, fleece, mesh and sublimated styles from 50 pcs,… - [Custom ski wear](https://mrbalaclava.com/ski-wear/) Custom ski jackets, pants, suits, fleece and base layers under your label, waterproof 5K–20K with taped seams. From… - [Custom caps & hats](https://mrbalaclava.com/caps-hats/) Custom caps and hats under your label: baseball, dad, trucker, snapback, bucket, boonie, safari and camo caps. From… - [Custom socks](https://mrbalaclava.com/socks-manufacturer-and-supplier/) Custom socks under your label: ankle, crew, dress, sport, thermal, grip and team socks with jacquard logos. From… - [Custom beanies](https://mrbalaclava.com/beanies/) Custom beanies under your label: cuffed and logo, streetwear, pom-pom and winter, sports and jacquard beanies. From 50… - [Custom scarves](https://mrbalaclava.com/scarves/) Custom scarves under your label: knitted, football, silk and printed scarves, bandanas, neckerchiefs and hijabs. From 50 pcs… Product pages that use these fabrics: - [Motorcycle & Cycling Balaclavas](https://mrbalaclava.com/balaclavas/bike-ski-mask/) - [Base & Mid Layers](https://mrbalaclava.com/ski-wear/base-mid-layers/) - [Neck Gaiters](https://mrbalaclava.com/balaclavas/neck-gaiter-manufacturer/) - [Tactical Balaclavas](https://mrbalaclava.com/balaclavas/tactical-balaclava-manufacturer/) - [Mesh Balaclavas](https://mrbalaclava.com/balaclavas/mesh-balaclava-manufacturer/) - [Trucker & Snapback Caps](https://mrbalaclava.com/caps-hats/custom-trucker-caps-manufacturer/) - [Ski Jackets](https://mrbalaclava.com/ski-wear/custom-ski-jackets/) - [Softshell](https://mrbalaclava.com/ski-wear/softshell-jacket-manufacturer/) - [Socks](https://mrbalaclava.com/socks-manufacturer-and-supplier/) - [Grip & Comfort](https://mrbalaclava.com/socks-manufacturer-and-supplier/grip-comfort-socks/) - [Bamboo Socks](https://mrbalaclava.com/socks-manufacturer-and-supplier/bamboo-socks/) - [Everyday & Fashion](https://mrbalaclava.com/socks-manufacturer-and-supplier/everyday-fashion-socks/) - [Sport & Team](https://mrbalaclava.com/socks-manufacturer-and-supplier/sport-performance-team-socks/) - [Custom Team Socks](https://mrbalaclava.com/socks-manufacturer-and-supplier/custom-team-socks/) - [Caps & Hats](https://mrbalaclava.com/caps-hats/) - [Baseball & Dad Caps](https://mrbalaclava.com/caps-hats/custom-baseball-caps-manufacturer/) - [Visor Caps](https://mrbalaclava.com/caps-hats/custom-visor-caps-manufacturer/) - [Bucket & Boonie Hats](https://mrbalaclava.com/caps-hats/custom-bucket-hat-manufacturer/) Portfolio ## Performance fabrics in our projects The fabric names are shown as recorded in each project. - [Performance BalaclavaOrange Stitch Performance Balaclava ProjectFabric: Shy Dry Fit LycraView project](https://mrbalaclava.com/portfolio/orange-stitch-performance-balaclava-project/) - [Denim Patch Printing BalaclavaDenim Patch Printing Balaclava ProjectFabric: Dry Fit LycraView project](https://mrbalaclava.com/portfolio/denim-patch-printing-balaclava-project/) - [Sublimation Neck GaiterSublimation Neck Gaiter ProjectFabric: Dry Fit LycraView project](https://mrbalaclava.com/portfolio/sublimation-neck-gaiter-project/) - [Magnetic Detachable BalaclavaMagnetic Detachable Balaclava with Removable 3D Mesh ProjectFabric: Dry Fit Lycra 240 GSM+ 3D MeshView project](https://mrbalaclava.com/portfolio/magnetic-detachable-balaclava-project/) - [Printed BalaclavaFingerprint Graphic Printed Balaclava ProjectFabric: Dry Fit LycraView project](https://mrbalaclava.com/portfolio/fingerprint-graphic-printed-balaclava/) - [Streetwear BalaclavaWindproof Embroidery Balaclava ProjectFabric: S.H.Y Dry Fit LycraView project](https://mrbalaclava.com/portfolio/wind-proof-embroidery-balaclava-project/) [See all projects](https://mrbalaclava.com/portfolio/) Journal ## Guides on performance headwear fabrics - [Product Guides & Comparisons · 15 min readDifferent Types of Balaclavas: Styles, Materials and Uses ExplainedThe types of balaclavas explained: face openings, hinged and hooded styles, knitted vs cut-and-sew, materials, uses and fashion styles, with a quick guide.Read the guide](https://mrbalaclava.com/journal/different-types-of-balaclavas/) - [Product Guides & ComparisonsOne-Hole, Two-Hole, Three-Hole or Open Face? Balaclava Openings ExplainedBalaclava face openings explained: one-hole, two-hole, three-hole and open face compared for breathing, goggles, glasses, helmets, fabrics and uses.Read the guide](https://mrbalaclava.com/journal/balaclava-face-openings/) - [Manufacturing & ProductionKnitted vs Cut-and-Sew Balaclavas: How Each Type Is MadeKnitted vs cut-and-sew balaclavas: how each is made, what “seamless” really means, flatlock seams under helmets, decoration options and how to choose.Read the guide](https://mrbalaclava.com/journal/knitted-vs-cut-and-sew-balaclavas/) FAQ ## Performance fabrics: frequently asked questions **### What is a "dry-fit" fabric?** "Dry fit" is a common trade name for light, moisture-wicking knits, usually polyester, often with elastane for stretch. Our SHY series stretch jersey, the fabric recorded as "dry fit" in many of our projects, is 88% polyester and 12% spandex. **### Is softshell waterproof?** Softshell helps keep out wind and light rain and stays breathable, but it is not fully waterproof unless it has a membrane and sealed seams. Tell us the conditions the product is for. **### Can a balaclava combine several fabrics?** Yes. A common build is a stretch jersey body with a mesh mouth panel, or a fleece-lined face with a wind-blocking outer. Panels are agreed in the tech pack. Material Library ## More fabric families and guides - [All fabrics in the Material Library](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/) - [Fleece Fabrics](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fleece/) - [Cotton Fabrics](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/cotton/) - [Merino Wool & Wool Blend Fabrics](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/merino-wool-blends/) - [Polyester & Recycled Polyester Fabrics](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/polyester-recycled-polyester/) - [Acrylic Knits & Yarns](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/acrylic/) - [Shell & Waterproof Fabrics](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/shell-fabrics/) - [Insulation & Linings](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/insulation-linings/) - [Cap & Hat Materials](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/cap-hat-materials/) - [Sock Yarns & Constructions](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/sock-yarns/) - [Knitting Yarns](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/knitting-yarns/) - [Scarf Fabrics](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/scarf-fabrics/) - [Waterproof & Breathability Ratings Explained](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/waterproof-breathability-ratings/) - [Fabric Weight & GSM Guide](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric-weight-gsm-guide/) - [Textile Certifications Guide](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/textile-certifications/)