At Makuu, we believe the materials we use are as important as the form — and especially so when you live in motion, between seas and shores. Here’s what the science tells us about hemp (Cannabis sativa)-based fibres, and why they matter for bedding, textiles and long-term comfort.
1. Strength & Durability
- One review notes that hemp fabrics “outperform cotton in durability and longevity” thanks to higher cellulose content (55–72 %) and lower lignin (2–5 %). (AZoM)
- Another source reports that a 100 % hemp fabric had 62 % greater tear strength and 102 % greater tensile strength compared with a denim cotton test sample. (OEcotextiles)
- A more technical study found hemp fibres with average tensile strength of ≈ 566 MPa (± 167) and specific tensile strength of 353 MPa/g cm⁻³. (MDPI)
Why it matters: A fibre that withstands more stress and wear means your textiles can stay in use longer, maintain integrity, and reduce waste.
2. Comfort, Breathability & Moisture Management
- Hemp’s porous, hollow-fibre structure supports airflow and moisture transfer, making it more breathable and better at thermoregulation than many natural fibres. (AZoM)
- Research indicates that hemp and hemp-blend fabrics show improved moisture absorption, air permeability, anti-mould and antibacterial properties. (PMC)
Why it matters: For bedding and textiles used in variable climates (think humidity, movement, outdoor/indoor shifts), materials that “breathe” and manage moisture maintain comfort and hygiene.
3. Resistance to Mould, UV, Microbes
- Hemp naturally resists mould and mildew because its structure allows moisture to escape, reducing conditions for microbial growth. (Indo Naturals)
- It also has documented antibacterial activity (in extracts) and shows potential as a fibre for technical applications given these properties. (BioResources)
Why it matters: In settings where textiles are exposed to moisture, variation in temperature, or long use (boats, mobile homes, travel), a material that stays fresher and cleaner matters.
4. Sustainability & Lifecycle
- A recent study (2024) covering the hemp “field to fibre” chain highlights how hemp cultivation, processing and textile application align with circular economy goals. (MDPI)
- Market data suggest strong growth: e.g., the global hemp fabric market was valued at ~USD 16.94 billion in 2024, with forecast growth (CAGR ~32.4 %) to 2032. (Stellar Market Research)
Why it matters: Choosing materials that minimise environmental impact and have a long usable life supports both ethical production and lasting performance.
5. What It Means for Makuu
At Makuu, our choice to use 100% hemp textiles isn’t just aesthetic — it’s functional and rooted in evidence.
- When you move from boat to shore, from humid nights to cooling breezes, the textiles you sleep in must adapt.
- Our fabrics lean on hemp’s durability so your bedding doesn’t lose integrity when laundered, packed, unpacked, shifted.
- They take advantage of breathability and moisture-management so you sleep well whether in damp climates or dry ones.
- They align with a slow-living, high-quality ethos: build to last, respect the material, honor the journey.