Essentials tracksuits are everywhere these days. You see them in local high streets, airports, gyms, and even cafes. With their simple design and neutral colours, many people in the UK are wearing them daily. But when it comes down to spending your money, one key question comes up — is the fabric quality actually good for what you pay? In this post, we’ll talk about the fabric, how it feels, how it holds up, and whether it matches the price tag.

What Materials Are Used in Essentials Tracksuits?

Essentials tracksuits are made using a mix of cotton and polyester. Most pieces contain about 80% cotton and 20% polyester, which is a common blend for comfort wear. Cotton gives it that soft, breathable feel, while polyester adds durability and helps the tracksuit keep its shape. The inside often has a brushed fleece lining that feels warm and cozy, especially during the colder months in the UK. This mix of materials is designed to give a balance between softness and long-term wear, but does it actually perform well day-to-day?

How Does the Fabric Feel on the Skin?

When you first put on an Essentials hoodie or joggers, you’ll likely notice how smooth and soft it feels. The brushed fleece interior makes it easy to wear without needing an extra layer. It doesn’t feel itchy or stiff, which is common in cheaper tracksuits. Even after hours of wearing, it stays comfortable and doesn’t overheat unless the weather is too warm. Many wearers say it feels like a gentle hug — just the right weight without being too thick. So in terms of comfort, it definitely meets the mark for daily use.

How Well Does It Handle Repeated Washing?

One of the biggest concerns people have is how clothes hold up after washing. The Essentials tracksuit tends to do quite well in this area. The fabric doesn't shrink much if you follow the care label instructions. It keeps its shape, and the colours don't fade quickly — even after several washes. The stitching remains intact and strong, which is a good sign of quality. The fleece lining stays soft, although it can lose a little fluff after many washes. But compared to other high street brands, it stays looking fresh for longer.

Does the Fabric Pill or Fade Easily?

Pilling — those small fabric balls that appear after wear — can be a problem with many tracksuits. However, the Essentials tracksuit holds up better than expected. After weeks or even months of use, most wearers report very little pilling. This is likely thanks to the polyester in the fabric blend, which strengthens the material. The colours also stay rich, especially if you wash the tracksuit inside-out and avoid high heat drying. Fading is minimal if cared for properly, making it a solid choice for people who want their clothes to look good over time.

Is the Material Too Heavy or Too Light?

Essentials tracksuits have a medium-weight fabric, which makes them suitable for different seasons in the UK. They’re warm enough for autumn and mild winter days but not too heavy to wear indoors. This weight also makes them a good travel outfit, especially for flights or long drives. The joggers are slightly thicker than usual, giving a structured feel without feeling stiff. If you prefer light, thin tracksuits, this might feel heavier than expected. But for most people, the balance is just right for both comfort and warmth.

How Does the Fabric Compare to Other Brands?

Compared to high street brands like Nike, Adidas, or Zara, Essentials holds its own in fabric quality. While it may not match luxury brands in terms of premium finishes, it does offer better fabric than many mid-range labels. The cotton feels cleaner and more natural, and the inner lining is softer. Some fast fashion brands use thin or scratchy fabrics to cut costs — that’s not the case here. Essentials tracksuits may not have flashy designs, but the focus on material quality shows when worn daily. Many UK shoppers feel they get better value in terms of comfort and durability.

Is It Breathable for Long Hours?

Breathability is a key part of any good tracksuit. Essentials tracksuits manage this well by using cotton as the base material. It allows air to pass through, reducing sweat buildup during long hours. Whether you’re walking, lounging, or running errands, you won’t feel stuffy. The joggers also come with a relaxed fit, which helps with airflow. This makes it great for those who wear their tracksuits from morning till night. For mild UK weather, the fabric feels just right — not too hot and not too thin.

Can You Wear It for Light Exercise?

While Essentials tracksuits aren’t made as athletic gear, you can wear them for light exercise. The cotton-poly blend moves well with your body, and the joggers come with stretch at the waist and cuffs. You might not want to wear them for high-intensity workouts, as they’re not sweat-wicking like performance gear. But for a walk, yoga session, or trip to the park, the fabric works well. It doesn’t stick to the skin, and it keeps you feeling covered and relaxed. For casual fitness or movement, the material quality is more than good enough.

Does the Fabric Feel Cheap?

No — the fabric doesn’t feel cheap at all. Even though it’s a mid-range brand, Essentials tracksuits feel well-made. The texture is smooth, and the inner fleece adds to the overall comfort. The stitching is neat, and there’s weight to the fabric that makes it feel more premium than basic fast fashion. You’re not paying for a label only — the material holds its own. It’s not luxury, but it’s also far from feeling thin, flimsy, or low quality. Most buyers are pleasantly surprised by how solid and finished it feels straight out of the bag.

Is It Worth the Price Just for the Fabric?

If you're buying mainly for quality material, then yes — the price feels fair. You’re getting soft, durable fabric that lasts longer than many high street tracksuits. The fleece inside makes it great for cooler days, and the outer cotton-poly mix keeps its shape well. For under £150 (often much less depending on sales or where you shop), the fabric alone gives solid value. It’s not just about branding — the material performs well on daily use. So if you care about how it feels and how long it lasts, the fabric does justify the price tag.

What Do Real Users in the UK Say About It?

Most UK buyers say the Essentials tracksuit feels like a good investment for comfort wear. Many mention how soft the fabric is from the first wear and how it holds up after washing. Some reviews highlight how warm it feels during cooler mornings. Others appreciate that it doesn’t sag or lose shape after wearing it a few times. Negative reviews are usually about sizing or delivery, not the fabric. This shows that, overall, people are satisfied with how the material performs over time.