Bamboo clothing is said to be sustainable and is an excellent option for those who are active. It is extremely smooth against your skin and generally breathable, quick drying and permits the sweat from your body to go away. (Although it’s important to note that some merino-wool lightweight items are generally better suited in terms of drying and sweat wicking.) I’ve been testing a number of products for clothing in BAM’s BAM Bamboo Clothing line.
In the interest of transparency Like my other reviews of kit I get the product as a courtesy and write a fair and impartial review. I may have affiliate links that help my in some small amount to operate this site. I’m not compensated to write reviews nor do I accept advertising compensation in exchange. My opinions are mine and therefore, subject to change, but I do have years of experience with testing clothing for outdoor and sports and am therefore able to write an honest review.
How do you define bamboo?
The first step is to take a look at bamboo as a material. I’ve read about and researched the environmental benefits and drawbacks of this fabric.
Bamboo’s benefits
Rapidly growing, it swiftly replaces all bamboos that are cultivated (some kinds of bamboo grow up to 5 cm in just an hour)
It thrives in dense forests, which decreases the need for space
Bamboo doesn’t require much water for cultivation and does not require the use of pesticides.
It is able to absorb a significant amount of carbon dioxide. This aids in combating global warming.
Bamboo can be cut to look like grass instead of being uprooted, so it requires less equipment
Helps soils that are prone to erosion recover
Organic bamboo is biodegradable and 100% sustainable.
Fabrics are naturally antibacterial so it doesn’t require washing it often (although take note of the cons)
If it is grown ethically the produce can benefit local economies.
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Bamboo’s cons
There are a few important issues to be considered. Although bamboo is a fast-growing species and doesn’t require pesticides, it doesn’t mean all people are growing it sustainably.
Additionally, while bamboo is more eco-friendly than synthetic fabrics and cotton during the growing phase but this isn’t always the case for making.
There are two primary ways to make bamboo fabric: chemical and mechanical – and the longevity of these methods differs significantly.
I’ve learned that bamboo processed mechanically is referred to as bamboo linen. It’s manufactured using the same processes as hemp linen and flax. However, it’s a labor-intensive procedure and the final fabric has a rather rough texture.
It’s been said that this type of method is not used in the larger manufacturing of bamboo fabric.
More often, it is the chemically processed bamboo. It is reported by the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) has revealed that to convert bamboo into a softer material bamboo rayon (also known as bamboo viscose) bamboo grass stems are cut and then soaked with caustic soda. The bamboo is broken down and makes into threads that can be woven into a fabric.
The fabric is then subjected to the process of bleaching. This process involves the use of sodium hydroxide. According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has classified this chemical to be “extremely corrosive” and reports it may cause skin and eye allergies. It also contains carbon disulfide which has been found to cause neurodegenerative disorders as well as alter the reproductive system.
Furthermore the chemical process consumes massive amounts of water, which are not green.
In addition The claim that bamboo fabric is naturally antimicrobial properties are discarded in this moment due to what’s known as an “open-cycle production”. In essence, these advantages are destroyed by chemicals.
Review BAM Trewortha Bamboo baselayer
It is a half-zip baselayer that has thumb holes. BAM define the product as extremely soft and extremely absorbent. It is made of organic cotton and bamboo viscose blend.
The weight of the fabric is 200 grams comprised of Bamboo viscose 68 28 organic cotton; 4percent elastic.
BAM say: “The top will keep from getting cold as you get warm and will aid in cooling down when you’re hot. The stretchy fabric will also provide the perfect fitting.”
POSITIVE IMPACT OF THE PRODUCT:
BAM lists the environmental benefits of their products.
1.5 M2 of land that is farmed without pesticides
4.3 km of emissions from driving eliminated
A total of 193 drinking days savings.
It would be beneficial to see them more open regarding the negative consequences I believe.
If I review a product that is being used more frequently than other items in my outdoor clothing closet that is a clear winner. I have decided to go with to use the BAM Trewortha Bamboo base layer above the rest to use for running, walking, and cycling.
I am awestruck by the texture and feel of this fabric. It’s very silky and extremely comfortable against your skin. I am hoping to wear merino wool items on my skin, but I find them to be itchy. Certain are more breathable than others, however the BAM top isn’t the least little bit itchy.
The UK10 suits me well and is a nice shape top. The arms are small for me to be able to comfortably use the thumb holes, but I have arms that are long so this shouldn’t be a problem.
I like the half-zip that can be closed in cold weather and zipped open to let me warm.
The design and colors are stunning, too.
The performance is fantastic. I like the top as a layers, so I could start my run wearing an t-shirt made of polyester, the BAM baselayer and then the running jacket. I’ll remove the jacket when I warm up. The BAM top is a adequate insulation in colder weather however it allows sweat to evaporate during hot days.
If I contrast the BAM top with cotton, it’s an excellent top that wicks sweat, however when in comparison to a 200gsm merino wool shirt, it seems like that it retains a bit more sweat. I don’t really sweat, and If you do you do, merino wool is an ideal choice.
However, I’ve been wearing this dress in many types of weather conditions and for a variety of occasions and find it to be among the most effective I have.
It’s odd that BAM describes their fabric in terms of “super absorbent”. I’m not sure the reason. It is possible that they mean that it absorbs moisture, but they should really look at where the water goes. Bamboo and cotton are not as effective at absorption of moisture and sweat as lighter weight merino However, I have discovered that the BAM top can eliminate moisture fairly well.
When I stop doing something that’s made me sweaty, the skin dries fast to ensure that I don’t finish shaking. There are some who prefer merino because of its quicker drying properties, but I have found BAM to be a good choice. BAM the top is good enough.
Another advantage is that it’s not too frilly, which is a benefit of the polyester items. In the interest of complete testing, I put on this top during a whole week of walking and running. It was only after seven wears did I detect any smell in my armpits.
The ability to wear clothes frequently without washing reduces pollution caused by washing machines and detergents.
The cost of PS52 is a bit high, however when you look at the cost of other Merino items, I’d suggest that it is quite reasonable.
Reviews: BAM Pipet colour block crop top
The BAM color block crop top that has a racer back is made of “Enduro” fabric to offer flexibility and support. This top was designed for sports that don’t require a lot of impact. It features an elasticated underband as well as flatlock stitching, which means it will not rub or chafe.
The 340gsm fabric is 64 percent Bamboo Viscose 24 Organic Cotton Elastane 12.
Sizes: UK8 to UK16
Price: PS28
Purchase: BAM Pipet colour block crop top. (I receive a small amount of commission on sales.)
POSITIVE IMPACT OF THE PRODUCT:
0.7 M2 of land that has been cultivated without pesticides
2.1 km of emissions from driving eliminated
94.9 day of water consumption savings.
This crop top fits fitted and comfortable. I like the large chest band as well as the wide shoulder strap length. Race backs are very comfortable. I’ve used it for walking, circuit training as well as for running. Even though it’s designed to be used for activities that are low impact however, I don’t require much support because of my height therefore my crop bra works for my needs for any activity.
The fabric is very heavy, which means that I’m not likely to use it to run in the summer as I’ll get too hot. The fabric is excellent in letting sweat evaporate, and just like the base layer it doesn’t become too fluffy too fast.
The fabric is extremely thick. I own other bras for sports which dry faster. If I ran for more than 10 miles in this top, I experienced the odd itch on my skin because sweat remained. I’ll keep this item for activities that are less sweaty, like yoga or circuit training.
It could be worn as a bra underneath the usual sportswear or as a stand-alone crop top.
They are a little slippery and stretchy to wear during running. It’s an odd thing, however my feet feel as if they’ll slide around in the soft fabric. it is my preference to wear a comfortable athletic sock to run in and for mountain hiking. For everyday wear, and walking trails that are low-level these socks are lovely.
The colors are great too and I’ve heard many positive feedback about them.
I enjoy the thought to wear socks which don’t be too smelly.
The only downside has to do with the fact they require more time to dry after washing unlike of my socks. That means when you sweat, you could be left with a spongy skin.
Review: BAM Bamboo Seamless Classic Briefs
Its BAM iconic bikini shorts “unite seamless technology with the softness and breathability of bamboo for knickers so comfortable you barely know you’re wearing them”.
Highlights include: Moisture control and ideal for people with allergy-prone or sensitive skin.
Fabric: 78% Bamboo Viscose, 15% Polyamide, 7% Elastane.
Price: PS15.
Buy: Bamboo Seamless Classic Briefs. (I get a small percentage from sales.)
POSITIVE IMPACT OF THE PRODUCT:
0.3 millimeters of land that is farmed without pesticides
0.6 km of emissions from driving eliminated
A total of 27 drinking days savings.
I am extremely careful about my knickers. I am not a fan of seams or lace. Plus, they must fit properly. Anything that ends at the bottom of my bum (sorry for that!) or rub me or cause me to sweat are promptly discarded and put in the side of my drawer for underwear.
I must say that I absolutely love BAM basic briefs. They are comfortable and are breathable, they don’t cause chafing and are very easy to put on. I like them for sporting because I’m not splattered with a rash or rub, also, I don’t sweat.
Hubby G has a pair of BAM briefs as well and he really enjoys the briefs. Hubby G says they’re an item that falls somewhere between polyester and cotton and they’re very comfortable and not sweaty.