2 Things That Make a Flannel Perfect for Summer
Just because it’s summer doesn't mean you have to pack away your best heavyweight flannels. It’s time to ditch the idea that flannels are only for the cooler temps, because we can reassure you that's just not the truth. So, don’t put your flannels away in storage just yet - check out the reasons below as to why flannels can be worn year round, even when temperatures start to soar.
How to wear a flannel in summer? Let's dig into the questions below to find out:
- What makes a flannel perfect for summer?
- Are lightweight flannels durable?
- How to find the best flannel for summer?
- Can a cotton flannel be worn in summer?
- What fabric is coolest for summer?
Andy Rawls in Boerne, TX working in a MuskOx Grand Flannel
What makes a flannel perfect for summer?
Versatility is key, and that’s why we make flannels with versatility in mind. We’ve all had those summer nights on the beach or around a campfire where you get a chill, and like a true outdoorsman you should be prepared for moments like this. Keeping our flannels on hand as a perfect, easy, and comfortable layer of warmth for those common (and cherished) summer nights. No need to bundle up in sweatshirts or sweaters when you have the perfect transitional item already on hand.
Another common scenario we run into (being true Michiganders) is the beach breeze during the day. Our flannels are so easy to slip on, and the prints and colors MuskOx offers transition well into warmer months, therefore you don’t look like you are wearing fall on the beach. And when the sun picks up - it’s such an easy item to easily take off and throw on the back of your beach chair.
Versatility might be key, but we all know comfort is king! When you are adventuring in the summer it is a priority to stay comfortable. The summertime is busy, whether you are chasing kids around the beach, hiking to an epic waterfall, or just lounging the last thing you want to be concerned about is comfortability. Try our Three Seasons Flannel, made with 100% double brushed cotton flannel fabric — we guarantee you it is the softest and lightest weight flannel you have ever worn.
When you are comfortable in the summer that takes a worry off of your plate, so you can just enjoy your surroundings and company. And before you start wondering, just because our flannels are extremely soft does not mean they are only intended for warmth. Because our flannels are 100% cotton they still have an aspect of breathability, ideal for a nice summer breeze. Cotton is a recommended fabrication for summer because of its softness and breathability.
MuskOx Three Seasons Flannel on a hike near Boulder, CO
Are lightweight flannels strong and durable?
Flannels with a dense weave and a premium two-ply yarn have a similar strength as a heavyweight flannel shirt with nearly half the weight. A high-quality two-ply yarn is created from cotton fibers that have long main strands (“staple fibers”) and a thin strand diameter (“micron”). Both of these combined create a strong and smooth yarn without bulky mass. The cotton fibers used in lightweight flannels are very important when making sure your flannel shirt is durable without the thickness and weight needed in warmer temperatures.
In addition to carefully sourced cotton fibers, our lightweight Three Seasons Flannel shirts will use a cotton twill weave and have flat felled seams. A tight 100% cotton twill weave is the foundation for durable flannel fabrics. This diagonal weaving pattern has less exposed fibers, resistant to creasing, and has a high thread count thus increasing the density of the fabric. Cotton twills are a highly technical weave and lend to a more difficult design process.
During the sewing process of a durable flannel shirt, seam design is also very important. Flat felled seams are the strongest type of seam. This is because the fabric is sewn together where the shirt locks together and is re-sewn to fully secure in its flat felled design. This technique encloses the raw seam edges from exposure, hiding them from wear and tear, and allowing the seams to hold up in the wash.
Jamie Mac in Southwest Oregon fishing in a MuskOx Grand Flannel
How to find the best flannel for summer?
Look for flannels that are made with 100% cotton for breathability and strength, flannels that can be worn unbuttoned as light weather jackets, and have prints on the neutral to darker side to block harmful UV rays.
Flannels made with 100% cotton are more breathable than flannels made with synthetic or wool fibers. This is because cotton has one of the loosest weaves, allowing air to penetrate the fibers. Cotton also provides the strength you need, so if flannels are a tool of the shop, with a 100% cotton flannel you don't have to sacrifice comfort for durability.
Can a cotton flannel be worn in summer?
Cotton flannels make for a breathable yet strong shirt for summer when you are looking for a bit of strength and sturdiness out of your clothing. The fact that flannels have buttons make them versatile when layering.
Heavyweight and quality fabrics are key in choosing a flannel that can be worn as a lightweight jacket in summer. A thick, soft, sturdy fabric makes a great lightweight shirt jacket. With MuskOx flannels, thickness does equal softness and since we use a quality cotton weave our flannels breathe and allow airflow in hotter temperatures.
MuskOx Grand Flannel in Russet made with 100% double brushed cotton
What fabric is coolest for summer?
Cotton is the best fabric for summer because it is soft, lightweight, and allows for high airflow. It is also the strongest of natural fibers making it a great option if you require clothes that are durable while working in warm conditions. Cotton absorbs moisture quickly which cools your body and regulates your body temperature.
You heard it here first folks - MuskOx heavyweight flannels can transition easily from season to season. We don’t have to stop wearing flannels once the sunshine starts to appear, we can continue to wear them in all seasons and for any outdoor adventure. We can’t wait to see how you sport your flannel during these warmer months. Let us know your favorite place to wear your flannel this summer.
