Best Jersey Fabric for Basketball: Microfibre Eyelet vs Mesh vs Double Knit

Choosing the right fabric for your basketball jerseys is just as important as the design itself. The wrong fabric can lead to overheating, poor moisture management, or a print that fades after a few games. In Malaysia's tropical climate, fabric choice matters even more.

At Amila Apparel, we offer three primary fabric options for basketball jerseys and uniforms. Here is how they compare.

1. Microfibre Eyelet (180 GSM) — The Most Popular Choice

Microfibre Eyelet is our best-selling fabric for basketball jerseys, and for good reason. At 180 grams per square metre (GSM), it strikes the perfect balance between durability, breathability, and print quality.

The eyelet weave creates thousands of tiny ventilation holes that allow heat and moisture to escape while maintaining the fabric's structure. This makes it ideal for Malaysia's humid climate where players need maximum airflow.

Sublimation prints on Microfibre Eyelet come out exceptionally vibrant because the tight weave holds colour well. The fabric is also quick-drying — wet jerseys dry within 30-60 minutes in normal conditions.

Best for: Competitive basketball teams, tournament jerseys, and clubs that want premium quality with maximum durability.

2. Performance Mesh — Maximum Breathability

Performance mesh is a more open weave that offers the highest level of ventilation. It is lighter than Microfibre Eyelet at around 140-160 GSM and allows more air to pass through.

The trade-off is that mesh fabrics do not hold sublimation prints with the same sharpness as denser weaves. Fine details and small text may appear slightly less crisp. Mesh is also less durable over time, especially at seam points.

Best for: Recreational teams, practice jerseys, and hot-weather tournaments where breathability is the top priority.

3. Double Knit — Softest Feel

Double knit fabric has a smoother, softer hand feel compared to the textured surface of Microfibre Eyelet. It drapes better and feels more like traditional apparel.

However, double knit is less breathable than both Eyelet and mesh, making it less suitable for high-intensity play. It also has a higher GSM (200+) which can feel heavy in Malaysia's climate.

Best for: Warm-up jerseys, coaching staff apparel, and casual team wear where comfort matters more than performance.

Which Fabric Should You Choose?

For most basketball teams in Malaysia, we recommend 180 GSM Microfibre Eyelet. It delivers the best combination of print quality, breathability, durability, and comfort. It is the same fabric used by professional teams across Asia.

Contact Amila Apparel for a free consultation and fabric sample pack. We will help you choose the right fabric for your team's specific needs.