Double Jersey Fabric
The ultimate double-knit canvas for sublimated sportswear. Identical faces, zero edge curling, and a smooth surface that makes it the global standard for soccer, rugby, and premium athletic jerseys.
What Is Double Jersey Fabric?
Double jersey is a premium double-knit fabric constructed by knitting two separate single-jersey layers simultaneously and interlocking their stitches together. The result is a textile that looks and feels identical on both sides, possesses exceptional dimensional stability, and provides the smoothest possible surface for dye-sublimation printing.
While technically a close relative of interlock (in fact, interlock is a specific type of double jersey knit), the term "double jersey" in the trade often encompasses a broader range of double-knit constructions — including variations optimized for specific sports. A soccer double jersey at 180 GSM may have a slightly different surface texture than a rugby double jersey at 240 GSM, even though both share the fundamental double-knit architecture.
Our double jersey range spans 150–280 GSM across lightweight training weights to ultra-heavy rugby weights, all in 100% polyester (92/8 with spandex), fully sublimation-ready on both faces.
Double Jersey Weights We Offer
From ultra-lightweight training layers to heavy contact-sport armor — the right weight for every application.
Where Double Jersey Sits in the Weight Spectrum
Double jersey spans the entire mid-weight to heavyweight range — the most versatile weight category in sportswear.
Lightweight Training
Soccer / Football
Rugby / Volleyball
Ultra-Heavy
Extreme Fleece
Why Double Jersey Dominates Sportswear
The double-knit advantage — properties that single jersey and basic weaves simply cannot match.
Zero Edge Curling
Mirror-image knit layers cancel out internal tensions — cut edges, hems, and necklines lay perfectly flat without stabilization tapes.
Identical Double Face
Both sides look and print identically — no "wrong side" means reversible garments are possible and sublimation looks flawless from any angle.
Premium Print Surface
Smoother and more uniform than single jersey — sublimation dyes transfer with exceptional sharpness, color density, and edge definition.
Excellent Drape
Double-knit structure has natural body and weight — garments hang with intention, creating clean silhouettes without feeling stiff.
Total Opacity
Dense double-layer construction provides complete coverage — zero translucency even in white or light colors under stadium lighting.
Dimensional Stability
Resists stretching and distortion during cutting, sewing, and wearing — maintains exact garment dimensions wash after wash.
Snag Resistance
Interlocked stitch structure resists pulling and snagging from contact — loops can't catch on Velcro, zippers, or opponents' equipment.
Shape Recovery
92/8 polyester-spandex blend provides 90%+ recovery after stretching — jerseys return to exact original shape after every match.
What It's Used For
Double jersey powers the world's most visible team sports — the fabric you see on TV every weekend.
Double Jersey vs. Other Knits
Understanding why double jersey is specified over single jersey, interlock, and mesh for most team sports.
| Property | Double Jersey | Single Jersey | Interlock | Poly Mesh |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Surface Faces | Identical both sides Best | Distinct face/back Uneven | Identical both sides Best | Visible holes on one/both sides |
| Edge Curling | None — perfectly flat Best | Severe curling Worst | None — perfectly flat Best | Minimal — structure prevents it |
| Sublimation Surface | Smooth, uniform, excellent Best | Smooth face, pilled back | Smooth, slightly spongy | Interrupted by holes Poor |
| Breathability | Moderate — solid knit | Moderate — lighter knit | Low-moderate — dense knit | Highest — open structure Best |
| Weight Efficiency | Good — substantial but not heavy | Lightest — single layer Lightest | Slightly heavier than double jersey | Light — open structure |
| Snag Resistance | Excellent — interlocked loops Best | Poor — loose loops catch easily Worst | Excellent — interlocked loops Best | Poor — holes catch and tear |
| Embroidery | Excellent — smooth, stable | Good — on face side only | Excellent — smooth, stable | Poor — holes distort stitches Worst |
| Cost per Meter | Baseline | 10–15% below baseline Lowest | 3–5% above baseline | 5–10% below baseline |
Honest Assessment
- Zero edge curling eliminates the #1 sewing and finishing problem of single jersey — no hem tapes needed
- Identical double face enables reversible garments and flawless appearance from every camera angle
- Premium smooth surface delivers the sharpest sublimation printing in the sportswear fabric range
- Excellent dimensional stability — cuts cleanly, sews accurately, and holds shape through aggressive wear
- Superior snag resistance — interlocked loops don't catch on Velcro, pads, or opponents' equipment
- Complete opacity in all colors — no skin show-through even in white under stadium lights
- Natural drape with body — garments look tailored and athletic without artificial stiffening
- The global proven standard for soccer and rugby — athletes, fans, and sponsors all expect this fabric
- Less breathable than mesh — solid double-knit structure traps more heat than open-weave alternatives
- 10–15% more expensive than single jersey — the double-knit process uses more yarn and more machine time
- Slightly heavier than single jersey at equivalent perceived thickness — two layers add real weight
- Dries slower than mesh or single jersey — double-layer construction holds moisture longer between layers
- Less stretch than single jersey — the interlocked structure restricts stretch compared to a single knit
- Overkill for basic applications — training basics and budget garments don't need double-knit advantages
Decoration Methods for Double Jersey
Sublimation is the reason this fabric exists — but other methods have their place.
Full Sublimation
The absolute best-case scenario for sublimation printing. Double jersey's smooth, uniform surface accepts dye with exceptional sharpness and color density — sponsor logos are crisp, gradients are smooth, and fine lines don't bleed. This is why double jersey is the global standard for sublimated soccer, rugby, and volleyball jerseys.
Screen Printing
Works excellently on double jersey's smooth surface — inks sit flat and adhere uniformly. Best for simple 1–4 color designs on training gear or non-sublimated replica lines. Plastisol, water-based, and discharge inks all perform well. More cost-effective than sublimation for large-volume simple designs.
Embroidery
Double jersey's dense, stable surface is ideal for embroidery — stitches grip securely and designs look crisp. Used for premium team crests, federation logos, and sponsor patches on rugby and lacrosse jerseys. The fabric's stability prevents puckering around dense stitch areas.
Specify Your Double Jersey
Every element of double jersey fabric can be tuned for your exact sport and market position.
GSM Precision
Exact weight from 150–280 GSM in 10-gram increments — lighter for speed sports, heavier for contact sports.
Stretch Ratio
100% poly (no stretch), 95/5, 92/8, or 88/12 spandex — more stretch for athletic fit, less for stability.
Surface Texture
Smooth (standard), micro-textured (premium hand feel), or double-face piqué (traditional look).
Mesh Panel Zones
Integrate mesh inserts at underarms, back panel, or side stripes without changing base fabric spec.
Wicking Finish
Standard moisture management or enhanced hydrophilic for hotter climates and high-intensity sports.
Weight Zoning
Lighter GSM on body panels, heavier GSM on shoulders and sleeves — one garment, multiple weights.
Ordering Process
From first inquiry to delivered garments — a streamlined 5-step process.
Inquiry
Day 0Samples
3–5 DaysApproval
1–2 DaysProduction
12–18 DaysDelivery
4–7 DaysMOQ, Capacity & Lead Time
Frequently Asked Questions
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Ready to Start Your Double Jersey Order?
Get a detailed quote with pricing, lead time, and free fabric samples across multiple GSM weights — typically within 4 business hours.