Fabric handle as a concept for high-performance apparel

Fabric handle, together with the surface and mechanical properties are very important characteristics affecting the quality of fabrics and apparel. In this chapter an introduction to fabric handle, the influential factors of handle evaluation including the manufacturing processes of fabrics and apparel, and the surface and low-stress mechanical properties of fabrics will be described. Handle evaluation methods which are objective and subjective approaches will also be explained. The science behind fabric handle objective evaluation including surface and mechanical properties such as bending, compression, shear and tensile properties of fabrics will be described. The importance of fabric properties and handle of high performance apparel will also be discussed.