Why Acrylic Sweatshirts and Jogging Bottoms Are Still a Top Pick — Even If They Pill
Posted by Truly Fare Schoolwear Outfitters | Belfast, Northern Ireland
At Truly Fare, we’ve been outfitting Belfast’s students for over 30 years — and one of our best-selling schoolwear combinations continues to be acrylic sweatshirts and joggers. They’re warm, durable, cost-effective, and easy to care for — a winning combo for busy families and active schoolkids.
But let’s address a common concern:
“Why is my child’s sweatshirt or joggers starting to bobble?”
The short answer is pilling — and it’s completely normal with acrylic and other blended fabrics. Here’s why it happens, what it means, and why these garments are still a smart schoolwear choice.
What Is Pilling — and Why Does It Happen?
Pilling is the appearance of small fabric balls (or “bobbles”) on the surface of a garment, usually in areas of friction — like elbows, sleeves, knees, or sides.
Here’s why it happens:
-
Acrylic fibres are soft and warm, but when rubbed (say, against a desk or school bag), loose fibres can twist together and form tiny balls.
-
Jogging bottoms and sweatshirts, by nature, are used in very active environments — so pilling is more likely over time.
❗ Note: Pilling is cosmetic only — it does not affect the strength, warmth, or overall performance of the garment.
Pros That Far Outweigh the Pilling
Despite this, acrylic sweatshirts and joggers continue to be one of the most practical and affordable options for schoolwear in Belfast.
Here’s why:
✅ Warm and Comfortable
Acrylic fabric is designed to mimic wool — meaning it’s soft, lightweight, and insulating. Perfect for chilly mornings and long school days, whether in the classroom or out in the yard.
✅ Durable and Long-Lasting
Acrylic is tough. These sweatshirts and joggers are built to withstand daily wear and frequent washes — without losing shape or structure. Even with some pilling, they’ll hold up far longer than cotton alternatives.
✅ Low Maintenance
Parents love that acrylic garments are machine-washable, fast-drying, and don’t need ironing. No fuss, no fabric softener, and no tumble drying required.
✅ Cost-Effective for Growing Kids
Because they last so long and hold their shape, acrylic sweatshirts and joggers are a budget-friendly schoolwear choice — especially when you’re buying for more than one child or replacing items mid-year.
How to Reduce Pilling
While you can’t eliminate pilling completely, here are a few tips to minimise it:
-
Wash inside out to protect the outer fabric
-
Use a gentle spin cycle and avoid fabric softeners
-
Lay flat to dry — no tumble dryers
-
Remove pills with a fabric comb or bobble remover
✨ A little care goes a long way in keeping your child’s uniform looking fresh.
Our Verdict?
Acrylic sweatshirts and joggers might show a bit of pilling over time — but they’re still one of the most practical, comfortable, and long-lasting schoolwear choices available. At Truly Fare, we only stock high-quality options trusted by schools and loved by parents across Belfast.