Pique vs Jersey vs Double Pique

Knitted fabric structure has a major influence on the appearance, comfort, breathability, stretch, and durability of a T-shirt or polo shirt. Among the most commonly used structures are single jersey, pique, and double pique. Although all three are widely used in apparel manufacturing, they have different construction characteristics and are suitable for different garment requirements.

1. Single Jersey

Single jersey is one of the most common knitted structures for T-shirts. It is produced using a relatively simple single-knit construction, creating a smooth surface on the front and a different texture on the back.

Single jersey is lightweight, soft, flexible, and comfortable against the skin. It generally provides good stretch and is suitable for everyday T-shirts, casualwear, base layers, and lightweight custom garments.

Because of its relatively simple construction, single jersey can be produced in a wide range of GSM levels. Lightweight versions are suitable for summer clothing, while heavier versions can be used for premium T-shirts requiring more structure and coverage.

However, single jersey may curl slightly at the fabric edges and can be less structured than pique or double-knit constructions.

2. Pique

Pique, also known as piqué, has a more textured surface created by its distinctive knitting structure. The small geometric or honeycomb-like texture gives the fabric a more dimensional appearance compared with smooth single jersey.

Pique fabric is widely associated with polo shirts because it provides a balance of breathability, durability, and structure. The textured construction can allow good airflow while giving the garment a more substantial hand feel.

Pique is suitable for polo shirts, golf apparel, uniforms, and smart-casual garments. It can also be used for certain T-shirt styles when a textured and more structured appearance is desired.

Compared with single jersey, pique generally has a more pronounced surface texture and a firmer appearance.

3. Double Pique

Double pique is a more substantial knitted construction that uses a denser and more complex structure than standard pique. It can provide greater fabric stability, thickness, and body.

The additional structure gives double pique a more premium and substantial hand feel. It is often selected for higher-end polo shirts, corporate uniforms, golf apparel, and garments where shape retention and durability are important.

Double pique can also provide better coverage than lightweight single jersey, making it suitable for garments where a thicker and more structured fabric is preferred.

However, the denser construction may make it heavier and less flexible than lightweight jersey fabrics. Fabric weight and fiber composition should therefore be selected according to the intended application.

Which Knit Structure Should You Choose?

The best structure depends on the garment's purpose, target price, climate, and desired appearance. **Single jersey** is generally the preferred choice for soft, lightweight, and comfortable T-shirts. **Pique** is commonly used for breathable and structured polo shirts, while **double pique** is suitable for premium garments requiring greater body, stability, and durability.

For B2B custom apparel manufacturing, knit structure should be considered together with fiber composition, yarn type, yarn count, GSM, finishing process, color, and garment construction. Choosing the appropriate structure at the fabric development stage helps manufacturers achieve the required balance of comfort, appearance, durability, and production cost.