Polo Fabrics
The fabric decides how a polo feels, holds its shape and performs. This hub explains the main polo fabrics and finishes, so a fibre list tells you how a shirt will wear and last. Browse men's polo shirts (/collections/mens-polo-shirts).
Cotton knits
Cotton Pique
The classic textured polo knit.
What defines it
Cotton pique is a waffle-textured knit that holds its shape, breathes well and gives the traditional polo look and feel.
Who it suits
It suits everyday smart-casual polos. Browse men's polo shirts (/collections/mens-polo-shirts).
Cotton Jersey
A smooth, soft single-knit cotton.
What defines it
Cotton jersey is a flat, fine knit that feels soft and drapes closer to the body than pique.
Who it suits
It suits dressier, softer polos.
Interlock
A double-knit cotton, smooth on both sides.
What defines it
Interlock is a denser double knit that feels substantial and smooth on both faces, resisting curling at the edges.
Who it suits
It suits premium, structured polos.
Premium cottons
Pima Cotton
A long-staple cotton with a soft, lustrous finish.
What defines it
Pima cotton uses extra-long fibres for a softer, stronger and more lustrous fabric that resists pilling.
Who it suits
It suits premium everyday polos. Browse men's polo shirts (/collections/mens-polo-shirts).
Mercerised Cotton
Cotton treated for sheen and strength.
What defines it
Mercerised cotton is treated under tension to add lustre, strength and a smooth, silky handle.
Who it suits
It suits smart, elevated polos.
Supima Cotton
A trademarked premium American pima cotton.
What defines it
Supima is a certified grade of pima cotton, prized for its softness, durability and colour retention.
Who it suits
It suits those wanting proven premium cotton.
Performance and blends
Pique Blend
Pique cotton mixed with a little stretch fibre.
What defines it
A pique blend adds elastane to cotton pique for a touch of stretch and better shape recovery.
Who it suits
It suits a classic look with modern comfort. Browse men's polo shirts (/collections/mens-polo-shirts).
Performance Polyester
A technical, moisture-wicking synthetic.
What defines it
Performance polyester wicks sweat, dries fast and holds bright colour, built for sport and heat.
Who it suits
It suits golf and active wear.
Cotton-Modal Blend
Cotton softened with silky modal fibre.
What defines it
A cotton-modal blend adds drapey, breathable modal for a softer, cooler next-to-skin feel.
Who it suits
It suits warm-weather, relaxed polos.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best fabric for a polo shirt?
Cotton pique is the classic, most versatile polo fabric, holding its shape and breathing well for smart-casual wear. For a softer, more premium feel, pima or supima cotton is excellent, while a performance blend suits golf and active use.
What is pique cotton?
Pique cotton is a knit with a raised, waffle-like texture that gives the polo its traditional look. The structure holds its shape, resists creasing and lets air move, which is why it is the standard fabric for a classic polo.
Is a cotton or performance polo better?
It depends on use. A cotton pique or pima polo is best for smart-casual style and comfort in everyday wear. A performance polyester or blend polo is better for golf, sport and hot weather because it wicks sweat, stretches and dries quickly.