In the pursuit of optimal sleep, many of my customers at the Encinitas showroom ask for bedding that feels less like "grandma's cotton" and more like their gym gear. Enter SHEEX, the original performance bedding brand founded by two University of South Carolina coaches who wanted the moisture-wicking benefits of athletic wear in their sheets.
Key Takeaways: What Are Sheex?
- The Feel: Silky, stretchy, and cool—exactly like Under Armour or Nike Dri-Fit material.
- The Tech: Uses "SleepFit" and "CoolX" technologies to wick moisture 10x faster than cotton.
- Best For: Hot sleepers, athletes, and anyone who sweats at night.
- The Cost: Premium pricing ($179+ for Queen), but unmatched durability.
The Science: How Are Sheex Made?
Sheex aren't woven like traditional cotton; they are knit. This knitting process is what gives them their incredible stretch and breathability.
1. Moisture-Wicking Microfibers
At the heart of SHEEX is a proprietary blend of polyester and spandex. Unlike cotton, which absorbs sweat and stays wet (leading to a clammy feel), these hydrophobic fibers pull moisture away from the skin to the fabric's surface where it evaporates quickly.
2. Breathable Knit Structure
Because the fabric is knit rather than woven, it allows for significantly more airflow. This ventilation prevents heat from getting trapped under the covers, a common issue with high thread count cotton sheets.
3. Flexible Spandex
The inclusion of spandex ensures a snug fit on any mattress depth. If you have an adjustable base, you know the struggle of fitted sheets popping off. Sheex grip the mattress like a yoga pant, staying put even when the bed moves.
My Personal Experience
I have rotated Sheex into my lineup for years. Here is my straight talk on living with them:
- The Good: They are undeniably the coolest sheets I own. In the heat of July and August in Poway, they are a lifesaver. The drape is heavy and silky, which feels luxurious.
- The Bad: If you have rough skin or unpedicured feet, they can snag. It’s a minor annoyance, but real. Also, the colors can bleed on the first wash, so wash them separately initially.
- The Verdict: If you sleep hot, the price is justified. They are durable and don't require ironing because they are naturally wrinkle-resistant.
Sheex vs. The Competition
Since Sheex launched, other brands like Molecule have entered the arena. Molecule offers a similar cooling effect but uses a Tencel blend for a feel that is slightly closer to traditional cotton.
Read my full Molecule Sheets review here.
Model Comparison: Which Sheex Should You Buy?
| Style | Technology | Feel | Price Range (Queen) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Original Performance | DriRelease® | Silky, Athletic | $179 - $249 |
| Arctic Aire MAX | HyperLayer™ | Maximum Cooling | $230 - $385 |
| Midnight Label | Brrr° (Cooling Minerals) | Softest, Most Tech | $335 - $385 |
| Eco-Sheex | Tencel/Poly Blend | Sustainable, Soft | $199 - $260 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do Sheex sheets shrink?
Sheex are engineered to be shrink-resistant. However, because they contain spandex, high heat can damage the elasticity. Always wash in cold water and tumble dry on low to maintain the fit.
Why are Sheex so expensive?
You are paying for the technical fabric. Just like a $100 pair of Lululemon leggings costs more than cotton sweatpants, the performance fibers in Sheex cost more to manufacture than standard cotton.
Do they feel like satin?
They are smoother than cotton but less slippery than satin. They feel exactly like a high-quality athletic shirt.
Final Recommendation
Sheex are a specific tool for a specific problem. If you sleep fine on cotton, stick with cotton. But if you wake up sweating, or if you just love the feel of performance wear, Sheex are a game-changer. They solve the temperature regulation puzzle better than almost anything else on the market.
Check out all my bedding reviews here.