What Does Washed Mean in Activewear? Fabric Guide
By Women's Activewear and Workout Clothes | Published: 2026-10-22
Category: Product Reviews
Learn what 'washed' means in activewear, how garment wash creates vintage softness, and how to care for washed tees and sweats.
Quick answer
In activewear, 'washed' refers to a garment wash process that softens the fabric and gives it a vintage, lived-in look. It's not about laundry—it's a factory treatment that can also cause unique fading on each piece.
Why garment wash matters for activewear
Garment wash isn't just for aesthetics. It breaks down the fibers slightly, making the fabric feel softer against the skin right from the first wear. This is especially useful for cotton-based activewear like sweatshirts and tees, which can otherwise feel stiff when new.
The process also creates a relaxed, oversized fit that many people prefer for lounging or low-impact workouts. However, because each piece is washed individually, the fading and color distribution can vary—so no two garments look exactly alike.
Trade-offs of washed activewear
Washed fabrics are generally less colorfast than untreated ones. Expect some color loss over time, especially with dark shades. The softness and vintage look come at the cost of slightly reduced durability compared to raw or untreated fabrics.
Also, the oversized fit may not suit everyone. If you prefer a more tailored look for high-intensity workouts, a non-washed or structured fabric might be a better choice.
Frequently asked questions about washed activewear
- What exactly is garment wash?
- Garment wash is a factory process where finished clothing is washed with enzymes, stones, or chemicals to soften the fabric and create a worn-in look. It's different from the wash you do at home. Always check the care label: washed garments may need gentle cycles to preserve the finish.
- Does 'washed' mean pre-shrunk?
- Not exactly. Garment wash can cause some initial shrinkage, but it's not the same as a pre-shrink treatment. The fabric may still shrink slightly in your first home wash, especially if you use hot water. Wash in cold water and air dry to minimize further shrinkage.
- How do I care for washed activewear?
- Turn garments inside out, wash in cold water on a gentle cycle, and avoid bleach. Tumble dry on low or hang dry to prevent excessive fading and maintain the soft feel. Avoid fabric softeners—they can coat the fibers and reduce breathability.
Products that use garment wash
- Sports Club Washed Sweat: The Sports Club Washed Sweat is made from soft and breathable cotton terry and features a retro sport inspired logo print with a classic rib crew neckline. The cotton terry and garment wash create a transseasonal layer that feels broken-in from the start, ideal for wearing after workouts.
Sports Club Washed Sweat - Sports Club Washed Boyfriend T-Shirt: The Sports Club Washed Boyfriend T-Shirt uses premium soft cotton fabric with a one-of-a-kind wash that gives each piece a unique vintage appeal. Because the wash is unique per tee, you get a truly individual look—but the color may fade differently than expected over time.
Sports Club Washed Boyfriend T-Shirt
