As heatwaves become more frequent and intense due to climate change, experts say choosing the right clothing can make a significant difference in keeping the body cool, reducing the risk of heat-related illnesses, and even lowering electricity consumption.
Researchers say appropriate clothing can help people remain comfortable at higher indoor temperatures, allowing air conditioners to be set around 2°C higher, reducing both energy use and household electricity bills.
Is white really cooler than black?
White clothing has long been considered the best option for hot weather because it reflects more sunlight, while black absorbs more solar radiation.
However, scientists say the relationship between clothing color and body temperature is more complex than many people believe.
A landmark study conducted in the 1980s examined why Bedouins living in desert environments often wear loose black robes despite extreme temperatures.
Researchers found that loose black garments did not significantly increase body temperature because the fabric absorbed heat while allowing airflow to carry it away from the body.
Experts explain that:
- Tight-fitting clothing: White is generally the better choice because it absorbs less heat.
- Loose-fitting clothing: Both black and white can help keep the body cool, as airflow plays a much larger role than color alone.
Loose clothing is more important than color
According to health and textile specialists, the fit of clothing has a greater impact on cooling than its color.
Loose garments create space between the fabric and the skin, allowing air to circulate more freely. This improves sweat evaporation, which is the body’s primary cooling mechanism.
Textured fabrics such as seersucker and piqué are particularly effective because they do not cling to the skin, making them feel cooler during hot and humid weather.
Best fabrics for summer
Experts recommend lightweight and breathable materials that improve airflow and help manage moisture.
Cotton
Cotton remains one of the most popular summer fabrics because it is soft, breathable, and comfortable. However, it absorbs sweat and dries relatively slowly.
Linen
Linen provides excellent ventilation and keeps air moving around the body, making it ideal for extremely hot weather. Like cotton, it can take longer to dry after becoming wet.
Merino wool
Although commonly associated with colder climates, lightweight merino wool absorbs moisture, controls odors, and helps regulate body temperature during outdoor activities.
Polyester and nylon
Modern synthetic fabrics such as polyester and nylon wick sweat away from the skin and dry quickly, making them popular choices for sportswear. Their main drawback is that they may retain odors after prolonged use.
Bamboo fabrics
Some studies suggest bamboo-based textiles reduce heat transfer while offering good breathability and moisture management, making them increasingly popular in hot climates.
Dry heat and humidity require different clothing
Experts note that clothing choices should also depend on weather conditions.
In dry climates, moisture-absorbing fabrics work well because sweat evaporates rapidly, naturally cooling the body.
In humid conditions, breathable materials that allow both air and water vapor to pass through the fabric are more effective because evaporation occurs more slowly.
Wearing fewer clothes can improve cooling
Professor George Havenith, an environmental physiology expert at Loughborough University, says wearing fewer layers—where culturally and socially appropriate—is one of the most effective ways to stay cool.
Less clothing allows sweat to evaporate more efficiently, improving the body’s natural cooling process.
However, he also emphasizes protecting exposed skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation by using sunscreen, hats, or lightweight UV-protective clothing when outdoors.
Smart fabrics are changing summer clothing
Researchers and sportswear manufacturers continue developing advanced textiles designed for extreme heat.
Some experimental fabrics automatically become more breathable as temperatures rise, while others contain special materials that absorb excess heat and release it gradually, helping regulate body temperature.
Although many of these technologies are still emerging, they could play a larger role in future heatwave protection.
Wet clothing can provide rapid cooling
Experts also recommend lightly dampening clothing or placing a wet towel or scarf around the neck during extreme heat.
As the water evaporates, it removes heat from the skin through evaporative cooling, helping lower body temperature naturally.
Expert advice for staying cool
Health and climate experts recommend wearing lightweight, loose-fitting, and breathable clothing during heatwaves, while noting that garment fit often matters more than color.
They also advise:
- Choosing breathable natural or moisture-wicking fabrics.
- Wearing loose clothing to improve airflow.
- Using damp towels or scarves for additional cooling.
- Protecting exposed skin from UV rays.
- Staying hydrated and avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight during peak afternoon hours.
As global temperatures continue to rise, simple clothing choices can play an important role in staying comfortable, reducing heat stress, and lowering dependence on air conditioning.
