Not all knit fabrics are the same — especially when it comes to warmth.
Thermal knits are designed to trap heat, while regular knits like jersey or interlock focus more on stretch and softness.
At HEM APPAREL, we help brands pick the right knit structure based on how warm they want their winter pieces to feel.
🧵 What Is Thermal Knit?
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A fabric with waffle or honeycomb texture
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Creates tiny air pockets that trap body heat
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Usually made from cotton, poly-cotton, or spandex blends
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Still breathable — doesn’t overheat
✅ Ideal for layering pieces in cold climates
👕 Thermal vs Regular Knit
| Feature | Thermal Knit | Regular Knit (e.g. Jersey) |
|---|---|---|
| Texture | Waffle or grid pattern | Smooth or flat |
| Warmth | ✅ Higher insulation | ❌ Less heat retention |
| Breathability | Good | Good |
| Weight | Medium to heavy | Light to medium |
| Best For | Base layers, loungewear | T-shirts, dresses, casualwear |
❄️ Use Cases for Thermal Knit
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Long-sleeve base layers
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Winter-ready T-shirts
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Thermal joggers or lounge sets
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Kid’s wear for colder regions
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Cozy sleepwear or pajamas
At HEM APPAREL: We recommend thermal knits for brands making function-meets-fashion winter lines — especially for export markets with cold seasons.
🧪 Blends to Consider
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Cotton-poly thermal → Soft + durable for daily wear
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Spandex blend → Adds stretch for fitted silhouettes
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Brushed back thermal → Extra cozy inside layer
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Organic cotton waffle → Great for natural-focused brands
⚠️ What to Keep in Mind
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Heavier than jersey — affects drape and fit
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Texture may limit printing techniques
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May require lining for structured outerwear
🧠 HEM APPAREL’s Tip:
Building a fall/winter capsule? Start with thermal base layers — they’re functional, easy to style, and add value for cold-weather customers.
MOQ starts from 300 pcs/style. We’ll help select the right waffle height, GSM, and softness for your concept.
