---
type: "fabric"
name: "Spacer (Athletic)"
slug: "spacer-athletic"
fabric_family: "specialty"
construction: "plain"
typical_fibers:
  - "Polyester"
weight_gsm: "150–300 g/m²"
price_tier: 3
url: "https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/spacer-athletic"
updated: "2025-09-08T02:28:39.228781+00:00"
---

# Spacer (Athletic)

Spacer fabric is a lightweight, breathable textile designed for athletic applications, featuring a unique three-dimensional structure that enhances comfort and moisture management.

- **Fabric Family**: Specialty
- **Construction**: Plain
- **Typical Fibers**: Polyester
- **Weight**: 150–300 g/m²
- **Thickness**: 3–8 mm
- **Typical Width**: 150 cm
- **Price Tier**: $$$ (3 of 5)

## About Spacer (Athletic)

Spacer fabric is constructed using a plain weave technique, typically made from polyester fibers. Its unique three-dimensional structure consists of two outer layers of fabric connected by a spacer yarn, creating an air layer that enhances breathability and moisture wicking. This fabric is commonly used in athletic wear, footwear, and padding applications due to its lightweight nature, cushioning properties, and ability to regulate temperature.

## Woven Properties

- **Ends per Inch (EPI)**: 40
- **Picks per Inch (PPI)**: 30

## Knit Properties

- **Wales per Inch**: 10
- **Courses per Inch**: 8
- **Knit Gauge**: 12G

## Stretch Properties

- **Warp Stretch**: 20%
- **Weft Stretch**: 30%

## Performance Properties

- **Air Permeability**: 30 CFM
- **Hydrostatic Head**: 1000 mm
- **Spray Rating**: 80
- **Evaporative Resistance (Ret)**: 5
- **Thermal Resistance (Rct)**: 0.5
- **UPF Rating**: 30

## Appearance & Hand

- **Luster**: Semi Matte
- **Opacity**: Opaque
- **Surface Texture**: smooth
- **Hand & Drape**: Fluid

## Performance Features

- Breathable
- Lightweight
- Quick Drying
- Stretch

## Common Finishes

- Moisture Wicking
- Antimicrobial
- DWR Durable Water Repellent

## Common Applications

- Athletic Wear
- Sports Bras
- Footwear
- Padding For Sports Equipment
- Active Lifestyle Apparel

## Common Uses in Detail

### Athletic Apparel

Its three-dimensional structure allows air to circulate freely against the skin, making it ideal for sports bras, compression tops, and activewear. The built-in moisture management keeps athletes dry and comfortable during high-intensity training or competition.

### Sports Equipment Padding

Lightweight yet resilient, it is widely used as padding inside helmets, shin guards, and protective gear. The fabric absorbs impact while maintaining breathability, reducing heat buildup and improving overall comfort during prolonged athletic activity.

## Care Instructions

Machine wash on a gentle cycle with mild detergent. Do not bleach. Tumble dry on low heat or hang to dry. Iron on low heat if necessary.

- Machine Wash At 30°C
- Do Not Bleach
- Tumble Dry Low
- Iron Low Heat

## Additional Information

Spacer fabrics are increasingly popular in the activewear market due to their ability to provide comfort and support while allowing for breathability and moisture management. They are often used in high-performance sports apparel and accessories.

- **Regional Names**: Spacer Mesh, 3D Spacer Fabric
- **Sourcing Regions**: China, Taiwan, South Korea, Turkey
- **Testing Standards**: AATCC 20 (Water Repellency), AATCC 22 (Water Resistance), ISO 12945 (Pilling Resistance), ISO 11092 (Thermal Resistance)

## Fibers in This Fabric

- [Polyester](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fibers/polyester.md)

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- [Adire](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/adire.md) — Specialty
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*Source: [Fabric Atlas](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/spacer-athletic) — HTML version of this page.*