How to Choose Bamboo flares That Actually Fit (in Australia)

As a designer who’s tested bamboo flares through countless 40-degree Sydney summers, I always recommend 87% bamboo viscose with 13% elastane for hot yoga. The sweet spot is 240-260 GSM fabric weight – lighter than regular flares but substantial enough for coverage.

Look for these Aussie brands that nail the summer spec: Dharma Bums (their Air-Lite collection), D+k Active (Sydney-made with moisture-wicking finish), and Derrins (Brisbane brand using certified organic bamboo). All three use flatlock seams to prevent chafing when you’re dripping sweat. For more premium options, visit explore rs7in.com/.

Pro tip: Avoid anything over 280 GSM or with cotton blends – they’ll feel like wet towels after 15 minutes in Bikram. The high-rise waistband with internal silicone grip is non-negotiable for inversions when you’re sweaty.

This is the #1 question I get as a designer! The see-through test is simple: hold the fabric up to window light – if you can clearly see your hand silhouette, walk away. Quality bamboo flares should have 4-way stretch recovery and pass the “bend-over mirror test” at home.

Here’s my technical checklist for squat-proof bamboo flares:

• Double-layered gusset (triangular panel in crotch)
• 280-300 GSM minimum for darker colours
• Brushed interior finish creates opacity
• Compression rating of 15-20 mmHg for muscle support

Australian brands that consistently pass: Nimble Activewear (their Power Flare), Lorna Jane (Amy Bamboo range), and Team Timbuktu (Melbourne-made with recycled bamboo). Always size up if between sizes – compression fabric needs room to recover.

Ah, the dreaded “thigh chafe pilling” – I’ve seen this destroy $120 leggings! This happens when low-grade bamboo viscose (under 200 GSM) gets combined with cheap elastane that loses recovery. The fabric breaks down from friction and heat.

Here’s what’s actually happening: short-staple bamboo fibres are being used instead of long-staple, plus the knit structure is too loose (should be 28-32 gauge). Quality bamboo flares use ring-spun bamboo with Lycra Sport elastane – costs more but lasts 3x longer.

To fix existing pilling: use a fabric shaver on gentle setting, then turn inside out for washing in cold water. For prevention, invest in brands using anti-pill finishing like D+k Active or Dharma Bums – they pre-wash fabrics to stabilise the fibres. Check out our best bamboo for Australian women.

Pro tip: If you’re prone to thigh rub, look for seamless inner leg construction or flatlock seams with cover-stitch. The $20 you save on cheap flares becomes $100 replacement cost in 6 months.

For same-day bamboo flares in major cities, your best bet is The Iconic – they stock Dharma Bums, Nimble, and Lorna Jane with 3-hour delivery in Sydney/Melbourne until 6pm. Rebel Sport also carries Rockwear’s bamboo range with click-and-collect in 2 hours.

For boutique Australian brands, try these options:

• D+k Active (Sydney) – same-day courier within 20km of Alexandria
• Derrins (Brisbane) – express post overnight to Gold Coast/Sunshine Coast
• Team Timbuktu (Melbourne) – bike courier within 10km of CBD

Pro tip: David Jones now stocks Sweaty Betty’s bamboo flares in selected stores – call ahead to check stock levels. For last-minute gifts, Afterpay Day sales often include free express shipping from most Aussie activewear brands.

Always check size charts before ordering – bamboo flares stretch 1-2cm after first wear, so if between sizes, go smaller. Most brands offer free returns within 30 days for online orders.