High-intensity ethnic traditional sports generate substantial metabolic heat and perspiration, requiring garments with efficient thermo-moisture regulation. This study comparatively evaluated three knitted sportswear fabrics differing in structure and composition. Air permeability, thermal resistance (Rct), water vapor resistance (Ret), and overall moisture management capacity (OMMC) were assessed using standardized methods (ASTM D737, ISO 11092, AATCC 195). Statistically significant differences were identified among the fabrics (p < 0.001). The mesh-knit polyester/spandex fabric exhibited the highest air permeability (839.0 ± 44.9 mm/s), the lowest thermal resistance (0.0354 ± 0.0027 m²·K/W), the lowest water vapor resistance (3.67 ± 0.38 m²·Pa/W), and the highest OMMC value (0.761 ± 0.019). Fabrics with reduced thickness and areal density were associated with enhanced airflow and improved convective and evaporative heat dissipation. Based on the comparative experimental results, the performance characteristics observed in the tested fabrics are reported as exploratory observations for fabric selection and thermo-moisture functional design in sportswear for high-intensity ethnic traditional sports. These results provide comparative performance data and preliminary insights for the development of thermo-moisture functional sportswear.

ethnic traditional sports, thermo-moisture comfort, knitted fabrics, air permeability, water vapor resistance