Which term is used for fabrics that can easily allow moisture to evaporate?

The term that describes fabrics that can easily allow moisture to evaporate is "breathable." Breathable fabrics are designed to permit the passage of air and moisture from the inside to the outside, which helps regulate temperature and keeps the wearer comfortable. This is particularly important in athletic and outdoor apparel, where staying dry is essential to maintain comfort during physical activity.

While moisture-wicking is often associated with similar qualities, it specifically refers to fabrics that actively draw moisture away from the skin to the fabric's surface, where it can evaporate more efficiently. While both breathable and moisture-wicking fabrics contribute to comfort, breathable is the broader term that encompasses the general ability to allow moisture to escape.

Water-resistant fabrics, on the other hand, are treated or constructed to repel water, preventing it from penetrating the fabric, which is quite the opposite of allowing moisture to evaporate. Insulating fabrics are designed to trap body heat to keep the wearer warm and do not prioritize moisture evaporation. Thus, breathable is indeed the most accurate term in this context for describing fabrics that facilitate moisture evaporation.