A Complete Guide to Knitted Fabric Types for Polo Shirts & Pants: From Pique to French Terry
For B2B buyers sourcing knitted polo shirts and pants, understanding fabric types is essential— the right fabric can make or break your product’s success. With so many options (pique, French terry, ribbed, fleece), it’s easy to get overwhelmed. This guide breaks down the most popular knitted fabrics, their features, and the best uses for each, so you can make informed sourcing decisions.
1. Pique Knit Fabric: The Classic Choice for Polo Shirts
Pique is the most common fabric for polo shirts—and for good reason. It’s a durable, breathable cotton fabric with a textured, honeycomb-like surface that resists wrinkles and fading. Pique is perfect for corporate uniforms, sports teams, and casual wear because it’s comfortable, easy to care for, and holds logos well. Our pique knitted polo shirts are pre-shrunk, so they won’t shrink after the first wash—a key selling point for buyers.
2. French Terry Knit Fabric: The Go-To for Casual Pants & Polos
French terry is a soft, lightweight fabric with a looped back and a smooth front. It’s made from cotton or cotton-polyester blends, and it’s perfect for casual knitted pants, loungewear, and oversized polo shirts. French terry is breathable and moisture-wicking, making it ideal for warm weather. It’s also highly customizable—we can dye it in any color or add prints and embroidery.
3. Ribbed Knit Fabric: The Stylish Option for Fitted Apparel
Ribbed knit fabric has a vertical, stretchy texture that hugs the body—perfect for fitted knitted pants, crop-top polos, and activewear. It’s made from cotton, polyester, or spandex blends, and it’s known for its elasticity and durability. Ribbed fabric is popular with streetwear brands and athletic wear companies because it adds a stylish, modern touch to any product.
4. Fleece Knit Fabric: The Warm Choice for Cold Weather
Fleece is a thick, soft fabric that’s perfect for winter knitted pants and polo shirts. It’s made from recycled polyester or cotton, and it’s highly insulating—keeping wearers warm in cold climates. Fleece is also lightweight and moisture-wicking, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and skiing. Our fleece knitted pants are a top seller for our Canadian and Scandinavian clients.
5. Moisture-Wicking Knit Fabric: The Functional Choice for Activewear
Moisture-wicking knit fabric is a polyester-cotton blend that pulls sweat away from the skin. It’s perfect for sports polo shirts, gym pants, and uniforms for industries like hospitality and logistics. This fabric is durable, quick-drying, and resistant to pilling—making it a favorite among buyers who prioritize functionality.
Not sure which fabric is right for your product? Contact our team of experts today—we’ll help you choose the perfect fabric for your knitted polo shirts and pants.