A breathable fabric is one that allows air to pass through it. This function helps keep you cool, by allowing warmth from your body to dissipate or by allowing cooler air to move in, so it’s particularly useful in hot weather or any time you are exercising, and it’s generally a good quality to seek out in active wear. As it turns out, the amount of air a fabric allows through it is highly variable, and the result can impact your comfort levels and performance.