Learn What Super Number of Suit Fabric is Right For You
Q: What is all this fuss about Super numbers? I see some suit makers touting Supers like karats of a diamond. Do higher super numbers actually make my suits more “super”? I’m looking for an everyday practical suit that can take a little beating while simultaneously being comfortable. What Super number should I be aiming for? – James K.
A: James, the Super numbers refer to the fineness of the yarn used in the wool fabric. Quality modern suiting typically starts at Super 100s. The higher the number, the finer the yarn. The higher yarn count, the softer the fabric, which will feel nicer and drape a little better on the body. But is this always better? It depends on what you’re going for. A suit’s Super number is only one variable determining a fabric’s overall quality. While a higher Super number may feel more delicate and finer to the touch, there will be some setbacks in everyday performance. A suit with a higher super numbers tends to wrinkle more easily and may be less durable over time. Such suits may also be more prone to ‘snags’ and be much harder to re-weave and fix.
So it’s important to know what you want out of the suit before going after the highest super number possible. Are you looking for a once-in-a-blue-moon special occasion suit? Then a really high super number (above Super 150s) is the right option for you. However, if like most gents, you’re looking for a comfortable suit that you can wear frequently, suits ranging from Super 110s like our Navy Blue Suit to Super 130s like our Gray Birdseye Suit strike the perfect balance between luxurious feel and longevity. Super 150s, like all of our Savoy Line Suits, also work great and can last a long time, but will require a bit more attention when it comes to proper suit care. The key takeaway is this: don’t just buy a suit based on Super number alone. Instead, figure out how that suit will be worn and choose accordingly!
Got a question for our stylist? Send us your questions to concierge@blacklapel.com with the subject line: “Ask A Black Lapel Stylist” or submit your questions in the comments below!
Like What You See? There's More.
We'll send you style advice and intel for the modern man.
written on the border of the fabric
Hi!
I wish to buy a fabric that can be worn during hot summers and cold winters of New Delhi, India (extreme). Moreover, the material you recommend should be rich looking something like present day James Bond would wear. Thank you.
As we noted recently, the Super number really doesn’t mean much when it comes to dressing for different types of weather.
If you’re looking for a suit that can handle all seasons, we recommend an all-seasonal wool suit. How do you know if a suit is all seasonal? The seasonality is listed on all Black Lapel suit fabrics (you can see an example here). So get in there and check the suits out and customize your own.
how to find that super number of fibre.????
You’ll have to get the Super Number from the maker. You won’t necessarily find it on labels or anything but the clothing maker should know.