Gabardine Vs Polyester: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to choosing fabrics for various applications, gabardine and polyester are two popular options with distinct characteristics. Gabardine, known for its durability and refined appearance, is often favored for professional attire and tailored garments.

On the other hand, polyester offers advantages such as wrinkle-resistance, moisture-wicking properties, and versatility in athletic and outdoor wear.

Factors like fiber source, weave pattern, sheen, texture, durability, wrinkle-resistance, shape retention, stretchability, breathability, care requirements, color retention, application, environmental impact, cost, and personal preference play a role in determining the suitability of gabardine and polyester for different needs.

Understanding their differences is essential for making informed choices in fabric selection.

Key Differences Between Gabardine Vs Polyester

Material Composition

• Gabardine: Gabardine is primarily made from natural fibers such as wool or cotton. Wool gabardine is known for its warmth and durability, making it a great option for winter garments. Cotton gabardine, on the other hand, is a breathable choice suitable for summer wear. The use of natural fibers gives gabardine a more organic and environmentally friendly composition.
• Polyester: Polyester, on the other hand, is a synthetic fiber derived from petroleum-based chemicals. It is made by mixing ethylene glycol and terephthalic acid. Polyester is essentially a type of plastic and is not derived from natural sources. This synthetic composition gives polyester its unique properties such as durability, resistance to stretching and shrinking, and easy care.

Fiber Source

• Gabardine: Gabardine is made from natural fibers such as wool or cotton. Wool gabardine is obtained from the fleece of sheep, while cotton gabardine is derived from the cotton plant. These natural fiber sources give gabardine its inherent properties and characteristics.
• Polyester: Polyester is a synthetic fiber and does not have a natural fiber source. It is derived from petroleum-based chemicals through a chemical process. The raw materials used in the production of polyester are ethylene glycol and terephthalic acid. This synthetic composition allows for precise control over the properties of polyester.

Weave Pattern

• Gabardine: Gabardine features a distinctive weave pattern known as twill. Twill weave creates a diagonal cord pattern on the surface of the fabric, forming a series of diagonal ridges. This weaving technique gives gabardine its unique texture and appearance.
• Polyester: Polyester fabrics can be woven in various patterns, including plain weave, satin weave, or twill weave. However, the specific weave pattern used for polyester fabrics may vary depending on the desired outcome or application. Polyester fabrics may not have the characteristic diagonal cord pattern found in gabardine.

Sheen

• Gabardine: Gabardine can exhibit a range of sheen levels, depending on the specific fiber used and the finishing processes applied. Some gabardine fabrics may have a high sheen, especially when made from certain wool blends. However, the sheen in gabardine is generally not as pronounced as in fabrics like satin or silk.
• Polyester: Polyester fabrics can also have varying degrees of sheen, depending on the specific type of polyester and the finishing processes employed during production. Polyester fabrics can be engineered to have a subtle sheen or a high-gloss finish, depending on the desired aesthetic and functional properties.

Texture

• Gabardine: Gabardine has a smooth and compact texture. The twill weave pattern gives it a slightly ribbed or diagonal cord texture on the surface. The texture of gabardine can vary depending on the fiber used, with wool gabardine having a softer texture compared to cotton gabardine.
• Polyester: Polyester fabrics have a generally smooth and slick texture. The smoothness of polyester is a result of its synthetic composition and the manufacturing processes involved in its production. Polyester fabrics can have a softer or more rigid texture depending on their specific construction and finishing techniques.

Durability

• Gabardine: Gabardine is known for its durability. The tightly woven twill construction of gabardine fabric makes it resistant to abrasion and provides longevity. It can withstand frequent use without losing its shape or strength. This durability makes gabardine suitable for garments that require resilience and longevity, such as suits, pants, and outerwear.
• Polyester: Polyester is highly durable and resistant to wear. Its synthetic nature allows it to withstand stretching, shrinking, and wrinkling, making it a durable choice for clothing. Polyester fabrics retain their shape and do not easily deform, ensuring long-lasting garments that can withstand regular use and washing.

Wrinkle-resistance

• Gabardine: Gabardine fabrics, especially those with a higher wool content, have natural wrinkle-resistance properties. The tight twill weave and resilience of the fibers help gabardine garments maintain their shape and minimize wrinkling. However, it is important to note that gabardine fabrics may still develop some wrinkles with extended wear or improper care.
• Polyester: Polyester fabrics are highly wrinkle-resistant. The synthetic composition of polyester allows it to retain its shape and resist wrinkling even after prolonged periods of sitting or folding. This quality makes polyester garments suitable for those who prefer low-maintenance clothing that requires minimal ironing or steaming.

Shape Retention

• Gabardine: Gabardine fabrics, with their tightly woven construction and inherent resilience, excel at shape retention. Even after repeated wear and washing, gabardine garments tend to maintain their original form and structure. This quality is especially important for tailored clothing where maintaining a clean and polished appearance is crucial.
• Polyester: Polyester fabrics are known for their excellent shape retention properties. The synthetic fibers have a natural elasticity that allows them to bounce back to their original shape, even after being stretched or folded. Polyester garments retain their silhouette and do not easily sag or lose their form, making them a reliable choice for long-lasting apparel.

Stretchability

• Gabardine: Gabardine fabrics, particularly those made from wool, tend to have limited stretchability. The nature of the fibers and the tightness of the twill weave contribute to a more structured and less elastic fabric. While there may be some slight give, gabardine is generally not known for its stretchy properties.
• Polyester: Polyester fabrics can have varying degrees of stretch, depending on their specific composition and construction. Some polyester blends incorporate elastane or spandex fibers to enhance stretchability, providing flexibility and ease of movement. However, pure polyester fabrics have limited stretch and are generally less elastic compared to fabrics specifically designed for stretchability.

Breathability

• Gabardine: The breathability of gabardine depends on the specific fiber used. Cotton gabardine tends to be more breathable compared to wool gabardine. Cotton fibers allow air to circulate more freely, keeping the body cool and comfortable. This makes cotton gabardine suitable for summer wear or in warmer climates where breathability is essential.
• Polyester: Polyester fabrics are generally less breathable compared to natural fibers like cotton or wool. The synthetic nature of polyester hinders air circulation, trapping heat and moisture against the skin. This can result in a less comfortable feel, particularly in hot and humid conditions. However, polyester fabrics can be engineered with moisture-wicking properties to improve breathability and enhance comfort.

Moisture-wicking

• Gabardine: Gabardine fabrics, particularly those made from natural fibers like cotton, have moderate moisture-wicking properties. Cotton fibers have the ability to absorb moisture, which can help to keep the body cool and dry in warm conditions. However, the moisture-wicking capabilities of gabardine may not be as high as specialized performance fabrics.
• Polyester: Polyester fabrics can be engineered with moisture-wicking properties. The synthetic nature of polyester allows for moisture to be quickly pulled away from the skin and dispersed across a larger surface area, promoting evaporation. This feature makes polyester a popular choice for activewear and sportswear where moisture management is important.

Heat Retention

• Gabardine: Gabardine, especially wool gabardine, is known for its natural heat retention properties. Wool fibers have inherent insulation capabilities, which help to keep the body warm in colder weather. However, gabardine made from cotton may provide less insulation and heat retention compared to wool variants.
• Polyester: Polyester fabrics have the potential to trap heat and moisture close to the body. While this can be beneficial in colder climates or during outdoor activities in chilly weather, it may lead to discomfort in warm or humid conditions. Polyester garments designed for thermal insulation may provide enhanced heat retention, while lighter-weight polyester fabrics offer better breathability.

Care Requirements

• Gabardine: Gabardine fabrics, particularly wool gabardine, often require special care. Wool garments typically need to be dry-cleaned or hand-washed using gentle detergents to avoid shrinkage or damage. Cotton gabardine may be easier to care for and can usually be machine-washed, although specific care instructions should be followed to maintain the fabric’s quality.
• Polyester: Polyester fabrics are known for their easy care requirements. They are generally machine-washable and can withstand regular washing without significant shrinkage or damage. Polyester garments are also less prone to wrinkling, reducing the need for ironing or steaming. However, it is always advisable to check the care instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure proper care and maintenance.

Color Retention

• Gabardine: Gabardine fabrics, particularly those made from high-quality dyes and fibers, tend to have good color retention. Wool gabardine, in particular, has excellent colorfastness, meaning it retains its color even after multiple washes. Cotton gabardine may experience some fading over time, but proper care can help maintain its color vibrancy.
• Polyester: Polyester fabrics generally have good color retention properties. The synthetic fibers are resistant to fading from exposure to sunlight and are less likely to bleed or transfer color during washing. Polyester garments can retain their original color for a longer duration compared to some natural fiber fabrics.

Application

• Gabardine: Gabardine, with its durability, structure, and refined appearance, is commonly used in tailored clothing such as suits, pants, skirts, dresses, and outerwear. Its versatility allows it to be employed in both formal and casual settings, making it suitable for a range of styles and occasions.
• Polyester: Polyester has extensive applications across different industries. In addition to clothing, it is widely used in home textiles such as curtains, beddings, and upholstery due to its durability and resistance to stains. Polyester is also commonly found in sportswear, swimwear, activewear, and outdoor gear, thanks to its moisture-wicking properties and ability to withstand rigorous use.

Versatility

• Gabardine: Gabardine is a versatile fabric that can be used for various clothing items. It is commonly employed in professional attire such as suits, trousers, skirts, and dresses, thanks to its refined appearance and durability. Additionally, gabardine can also be used in casual clothing, outerwear, and even accessories like bags and hats.
• Polyester: Polyester is a highly versatile fabric that finds application in a wide range of garments and textile products. It is commonly used in activewear, sportswear, swimwear, and outdoor gear due to its moisture-wicking properties and durability. Polyester is also used in everyday clothing, including shirts, dresses, pants, and jackets, offering versatility in style and functionality.

Professional Attire

• Gabardine: Gabardine is often considered a classic choice for professional attire. Its tightly woven twill construction, refined appearance, and ability to maintain its shape make it well-suited for formal and tailored clothing. Gabardine suits and pants exude a professional and polished look, making them a popular choice in corporate and business environments.
• Polyester: Polyester fabrics can also be used for professional attire, particularly in settings where easy care and wrinkle-resistance are valued. Polyester suits, blazers, and trousers offer a sleek and professional appearance while providing durability and resistance to creasing. However, the choice of polyester for professional attire may depend on the desired aesthetic and the formality of the workplace.

Environmental Impact

• Gabardine: Gabardine made from natural fibers like wool or cotton generally has a lower environmental impact compared to synthetic fabrics. Natural fibers are renewable resources and biodegradable, making them more sustainable choices. However, the environmental impact of gabardine can vary depending on the specific farming and processing practices associated with the production of the natural fibers.
• Polyester: Polyester, being a synthetic fabric derived from petroleum-based chemicals, has a higher environmental impact. The production of polyester involves the extraction and processing of fossil fuels, contributing to carbon emissions and environmental degradation. Additionally, polyester is not biodegradable and can take a long time to break down in landfills.

Cost

• Gabardine: The cost of gabardine can vary depending on factors such as the type of fiber used (wool or cotton), the quality of the fabric, and the brand. Generally, high-quality wool gabardine can be more expensive due to the cost of raw materials and the craftsmanship involved in its production. Cotton gabardine is often more affordable compared to wool variants.
• Polyester: Polyester fabrics tend to be more budget-friendly compared to natural fiber fabrics like gabardine. The synthetic nature of polyester allows for cost-effective production processes, and the availability of raw materials contributes to its affordability. Polyester garments are often priced competitively, making them accessible to a wide range of consumers.

Gabardine Vs Polyester: Comparison Table

	Aspect	Gabardine	Polyester
1.	Material Composition	Wool or Cotton	Synthetic fiber derived from petroleum-based chemicals
2.	Fiber Source	Natural	Synthetic
3.	Weave Pattern	Twill with diagonal cord	Smooth and uniform
4.	Sheen	May have a high sheen	Varies, generally not as pronounced
5.	Texture	Smooth and durable	Smooth and slick
6.	Durability	Highly durable and resistant to wear	Highly durable and resistant
7.	Wrinkle-Resistance	Yes	Yes
8.	Shape Retention	Yes	Yes
9.	Stretchability	Limited	Limited
10.	Breathability	Varies based on fiber type	Less breathable than natural fibers
11.	Moisture-Wicking	Depends on fiber type	Can be engineered with this property
12.	Heat Retention	Depends on fiber type	Can trap heat and moisture
13.	Care Requirements	Requires proper care and maintenance	Easy to care for
14.	Color Retention	Good	Good
15.	Application	Suits, pants, skirts, dresses, outerwear	Clothing, home textiles, sportswear
16.	Versatility	Versatile	Widely used in various industries
17.	Professional Attire	Suitable for professional attire	Used in a variety of contexts
18.	Environmental Impact	Natural fiber, biodegradable	Synthetic, not biodegradable
19.	Cost	Can vary depending on quality and fiber type	Generally more affordable
20.	Preference	Personal preference and specific needs	Personal preference and specific needs

Frequently Asked Questions

To Recap

Gabardine and polyester each have their own set of qualities and advantages. Gabardine offers durability, a refined appearance, and is often associated with professional attire.

Polyester, on the other hand, provides benefits such as wrinkle-resistance, moisture-wicking properties, and versatility in various applications. Considerations such as fiber source, weave pattern, sheen, texture, durability, breathability, care requirements, color retention, environmental impact, cost, and personal preference all come into play when deciding between gabardine and polyester.

By understanding their differences, individuals can make informed decisions and select the fabric that best suits their needs, whether it be for formal wear, activewear, or everyday garments.