What Is Modal Fabric? Modal fabric is a type of eco-fabric that acts as a second-generation viscose rayon fiber. However, it is generally perceived as more lightweight than viscose. This prompted the modal to be used in sportswear as well. Learn about modal fabric - a soft, breathable, eco-friendly textile made from beech trees. Explore different types, uses in clothing, and care tips. Modal fabric is a type of semi-synthetic fiber made from beech tree pulp through an eco-friendly process. Known for being soft, breathable, and durable, modal fiber bridges the gap between natural fibers like cotton and fully synthetic fibers like polyester. Modal fabric is a semi-synthetic fiber made from beech tree pulp, a type of rayon. Learn about its history, manufacturing process, environmental impact, and how it compares to other fabrics like viscose and lyocell.