INITIAL · Cotton (95% cotton, 5% elastane)
Classic, breathable and reliable comfort, designed for everyday use.
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Cotton or lyocell: which should you choose for your underwear?
Organic cotton: the timeless natural fiber
Cotton is the most widely used material in clothing. Organic cotton is grown using more environmentally friendly practices, with no pesticides or synthetic fertilizers.
Advantages of organic cotton
- Universal comfort : familiar softness and good breathability for everyday use.
- Easy maintenance : withstands routine washing.
- Increased traceability via recognized labels (e.g. GOTS ).
Points of vigilance
- Moisture management less effective than lyocell when sweating.
- May dry more slowly and retain odors after exercise.
- Depending on the weave, resistance and support vary.
Good to know: organic cotton remains an excellent “all-purpose” choice for those looking for a natural feel and a feeling of familiarity.
Lyocell: eco-responsible and high-performance innovation
Lyocell is a fiber made from wood pulp, often eucalyptus. Its closed-loop manufacturing process allows for almost complete recycling of the solvent used, significantly reducing the environmental impact compared to other artificial fibers.
Advantages of lyocell
- Ultra-soft touch with a “second skin” effect.
- Excellent moisture management : quick wicking and drying.
- High breathability and fresh feeling.
- Good fiber retention wash after wash.
Points of vigilance
- Higher manufacturing cost: often higher final price .
- Very fluid texture which may surprise you if you are used to thick cotton.
To learn more about good manufacturing practices, see the resources from the manufacturer TENCEL™ (Lenzing) .
Comparison table: organic cotton vs. lyocell
| Criteria | Organic cotton | Lyocell |
|---|---|---|
| To touch | Natural, familiar | Very soft, “second skin” |
| Breathability | Good | Excellent |
| Humidity management | Correct | Superior (rapid evacuation) |
| Resistance to washing | Good (depending on knitting) | Very good |
| Drying | Rather slow | Fast |
| Environmental impact | Cultivation without pesticides, better traceability | Closed-circuit process, low water consumption in processing |
| Average price | Accessible | Higher |
| Recommended uses | Everyday, classic comfort | Lightweight sport, travel, warmth, premium comfort |
What choice for your underwear?
It all depends on your priorities:
- Everyday comfort, excellent value for money : choose organic cotton.
- Moisture management, ultimate softness and freshness : choose lyocell.
- Sensitive skin : Both are suitable, with a slight advantage to lyocell for softness.
- Hot climate / active days : lyocell offers more thermal comfort.
Care tip: wash at 30°C, turn the garment inside out, use a washing net and avoid tumble drying to preserve elasticity and colors.
The AKINOM choice: tradition & innovation
PREMIUM · Lyocell (95% lyocell, 5% elastane)
Second-skin softness, moisture management and technical cut for optimal support.
Discover PREMIUMAKINOM integrates its FrontNest® system on both lines for a natural, compression-free fit.
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Conclusion
Organic cotton and lyocell are two excellent choices for your underwear. The former appeals for its naturalness and everyday familiarity, while the latter boasts its second-skin softness and moisture-management performance.
The key: match the material to your use.
Written by Florian Wernert
