Polo shirts and jerseys are both staples in casual and sportswear. But are they the same thing? Can a polo shirt be considered a jersey?
A polo shirt is not the same as a jersey, but it can be made using jersey fabric. “Jersey” refers to the fabric knit, while “polo” refers to the style—typically a collared shirt with a button placket.
I manufacture both styles in my factory. Many clients confuse the terms because of the overlap in material and use. Let’s break it down clearly.
Table of Contents
- What defines a polo shirt?
- What defines a jersey shirt?
- Can polo shirts be made from jersey fabric?
- When is a polo not a jersey?
- Conclusion
What defines a polo shirt?
It’s all about the structure and design.
A polo shirt is a short-sleeved top with a collar, placket, and usually two or three buttons. It may feature side slits, ribbed cuffs, and is often used in both casual and business-casual settings.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Collar | Usually flat-knit or ribbed |
| Placket | Typically 2–3 buttons |
| Fabric | Often cotton pique, but also jersey |
| Fit | Semi-structured, looser than T-shirts |
| Use Case | Business casual, golf, uniforms, leisure |
What defines a jersey shirt?
“Jersey” refers to the type of knit fabric, not a design.
A jersey shirt is usually a T-shirt made from jersey knit fabric—smooth, stretchy, and soft. It’s common in casualwear and sportswear due to its comfort and flexibility.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Collar | Usually none or a simple ribbed crew neck |
| Fabric | Jersey knit (cotton or blends) |
| Fit | Relaxed or fitted |
| Stretch | Good flexibility, great for movement |
| Common Use | Activewear, basic tees, sportswear |
Can polo shirts be made from jersey fabric?
Yes—and many are.
Polo shirts are often made from two types of fabric: pique and jersey. Jersey polos are smoother, softer, and stretchier, offering a more casual feel.
| Feature | Jersey Polo Shirt | Pique Polo Shirt |
|---|---|---|
| Texture | Smooth, soft | Textured, waffle-like |
| Weight | Lightweight | Heavier, holds shape more |
| Use | Casual, modern | Classic, uniform-friendly |
| Stretch | More stretch | Less natural stretch |
| Breathability | Good | Excellent |
When is a polo not a jersey?
When it’s made from pique or woven fabric.
If the fabric is pique knit or a woven cotton blend (like Oxford), then the polo is definitely not a jersey. Jersey fabric is knit, not woven.
| Fabric Type | Stretch | Structure | Polo Classification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jersey Knit | Yes | Soft | Jersey-style Polo |
| Pique Knit | Slight | Medium | Traditional Polo |
| Oxford Woven | No | Crisp | Dressier Polo (not jersey) |
Conclusion
A polo shirt is not automatically a jersey—but many are made from jersey fabric.
- “Polo” refers to the style (collared, buttoned shirt)
- “Jersey” refers to the fabric (knit, stretchy, soft)
If your polo shirt feels smooth, stretches easily, and fits more casually—it’s likely made of jersey. But if it’s textured or firm, it’s probably pique or even woven fabric. Always check the material composition when sourcing or manufacturing.
[^1]: Proper Cloth. "What Is a Polo Shirt?" https://propercloth.com/reference/what-is-a-polo-shirt/
[^2]: MasterClass. "Jersey Knit Fabric Guide." https://www.masterclass.com/articles/jersey-knit-guide
[^3]: Hockerty. "Polo Pique vs Jersey." https://www.hockerty.com/en/blog/polo-pique-vs-jersey
[^4]: Wise Geek. "What Is the Difference Between Woven and Knit Fabric?" https://www.wise-geek.com/what-is-the-difference-between-woven-and-knit-fabric.htm