If BCFing fun is what you live for, then there's no doubt that you have one (or a wardrobe full) of these beauties. A sublimated polo is the perfect shirt that can do it all—it can protect you from the harsh Aussie sun, keep you cool as a cucumber in the heat, give you maximum coverage against the elements, and has plenty of designs and prints for the avid fisho, 4WDer, or boatie to choose from! But how can a sublimated polo do all that you may ask? The answer is simple: its fabric.
Sublimated polos are made from 100% polyester or recycled polyester. You may hear polyester and think, "isn't that stuff stiff, uncomfortable, and itchy?" Nope, we're not talking about the vest your Nan knitted you for Xmas here. Polyester has come a long way, and is now the perfect material for your sub polo. Let the BCFing experts tell you why.
What is polyester?
Polyester is a fabric derived from plastic—it's been given a bad rap with many thinking this fabric shouldn't be comfortable. But nothing could be further from the truth, with polyester being both super comfy and soft!
Polyester has some wicked benefits when it comes to your sub polo fishing shirt. It's known for its water-resistant properties, naturally repelling water, sweat, and any kind of moisture with ease. This is perfect for those who love to be out by the water, 'cause this shirt has no trouble staying dry! The splashes from the ocean, river, creek, or whatever wet stuff you're near won't be able to drench this beauty, the water beading on the polyester and not soaking through.
If you're looking for a shirt that's as tough as a $2 steak, your sub polo with polyester fabric could be just what the doctor ordered. Due to polyester's strong fibers and makeup, it's extremely durable and strong, and able to bear the brunt of sweat, mildew, chemicals, and sunlight.
The elasticity factor in polyester is first rate, snapping back to shape even after excessive stretching. Along with this is its UV protection, protecting you from the scorching ball of fire in the sky. Even though you should always wear sunscreen to keep yourself safe from sunburn, this fabric will act as a you-beaut shield for when you venture out under the sun and into the great outdoors.
Squash it, fold it, run it through the wash a million times—polyester is wrinkle resistant and is super quick to dry, meaning it's easy to care for and maintain. What a winner!
Basically, polyester fabric ensures your polo is built like a brick you-know-what!
What is recycled polyester?
Recycled polyester is a material made from recycled plastic bottles. Nope, we're not pulling your leg! Plastic bottles are melted down and re-spun into fibers for clothing (like your trusty sub polo!), which means these waste products are being diverted from our already overflowing landfill, and are being kept from our precious waterways and oceans. Its production generates less CO2 emissions, and it requires less oil-driven material to create it.
With the same benefits and properties as 100% polyester, this type of recycled fabric is perfect for those who are trying to be more eco-conscious and want to make better choices for the planet around them.
What is a sublimation print?
A sublimation print is a graphic or design that has gone through the process of being transferred onto a polyester garment by heating the ink to a level where it sinks into the fabric itself.
A normal transfer process to put a design onto a shirt usually includes some kind of transfer method with vinyl or ink being printed on top of the material, whereas a sublimation transfer disappears into the fabric and dyes the material. This process is ripper dipper for creating designs, colours, and styles that will last as long as a wet weekend. They won't crack, fade, or peel off after a few washes. This type of printing method is perfect for keeping your sub polo as epic as ever.
So there you have it! Now that you know all about sublimated polos and polyester, you can brag to your mates about your newfound knowledge. Sublimated polos are a one-stop shop when it comes to durability, lightness, weather and sun protection, not to mention comfort, and it's all thanks to the versatility and toughness of polyester—what a ripper!