The Big Three: Polyester, Mesh and Interlock
Most modern team jerseys are built from polyester or polyester blends because polyester wicks moisture, dries quickly and holds dye-sublimated colour beautifully. Within polyester there are three workhorse constructions every kit manager should recognise: birdseye mesh, micromesh and interlock.
Birdseye Mesh (140-160 GSM)
Lightweight, breathable and ideal for high-output sports played in warm conditions — rugby sevens, summer football, basketball. Birdseye has a textured face that aids airflow but can pill if low quality yarn is used.
Micromesh (150-180 GSM)
A finer, smoother face that prints crisply with sublimation. A great all-rounder for football, netball and training tops where you want a clean photographic look on the kit.
Interlock (180-220 GSM)
A heavier, denser knit with a smooth surface on both sides. Interlock is the premium feel buyers associate with retail replica jerseys and works well for cooler climates and for clubs that want a more substantial hand feel.
Cotton and Cotton Blends
Cotton remains popular for off-pitch teamwear — polo shirts, hoodies, t-shirts. For on-pitch jerseys, pure cotton holds sweat and slows drying, so it is rarely the right choice. A 65/35 polycotton blend can be a good middle ground for casual training tops.
How to Choose
Match the fabric to (1) the sport, (2) the climate of the buyer region and (3) the price point. UK winter rugby and AFL in Australian summer have very different fabric needs. Ask your manufacturer for fabric swatches before signing off — at Mentec Sports we ship a swatch pack on request.
Looking for a manufacturing partner?
Mentec Sports manufactures custom sports apparel in Sialkot, Pakistan and exports to clubs and retailers in the UK and Australia. MOQ from 20 pieces.
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