What Is the Best Material for Tennis T-Shirts?

Mazen Ghashim - April 23, 2025

Why Material Matters in Tennis T-Shirts

Tennis is a fast-moving sport. They run, jump, stretch, and sometimes play in the hot sun. That's why comfort is key. If your shirt is too heavy, too tight, or not breathable, you can distract yourself during the game.

The right tennis t-shirt should:

Keep you cool and dry
Move with your body
Feel light and breathable
Last a long time through many washes

Let’s explore the most common materials used in these t-shirts and see which ones are the best!

1. Polyester—The Most Popular Pick

Why players love it:

Polyester is one of the most common materials used in tennis t-shirts. It’s lightweight, durable, and dries quickly. That means when you sweat, it helps pull moisture away from your skin and dries fast—so you stay cool and comfortable.

Benefits of polyester:

Excellent moisture-wicking (pulls sweat away)
Keeps its shape after many washes
Lightweight and breathable
Doesn’t shrink or wrinkle easily

Downside: Some people feel polyester can trap odors if not washed properly. But modern blends often include odor-fighting technology.

Perfect for: Competitive players, practice sessions, and hot days.

2. Cotton—The Classic Comfort

Why do some still wear it:

Cotton feels soft and natural against your skin. It’s a classic choice for casual t-shirts and warm-ups.

Benefits of cotton:

Soft and comfortable
Breathable
Great for sensitive skin

Downside: Cotton absorbs moisture instead of wicking it away. So, during long or intense matches, your shirt may feel heavy and sticky.

Perfect for: Light practices, warm-up routines, or casual games in cooler weather.

3. Polyester-Cotton Blends—Best of Both Worlds

Why it’s a great combo:

Blending polyester with cotton creates a fabric that feels soft but still performs well during play. You get the comfort of cotton and the quick-dry power of polyester.

Benefits of blends:

Softer than full polyester
Dries faster than full cotton
More comfortable for all-day wear
Less likely to shrink or wrinkle

Downside: Not as breathable or fast-drying as pure polyester.

Perfect for: Everyday tennis play, kids, and players who want both comfort and performance.

4. Spandex or Elastane—The Stretch Factor

Why it matters:

Spandex (also known as elastane or Lycra) isn’t usually used alone. It’s blended with polyester or cotton to add stretch. This lets the shirt move with your body, so you don’t feel restricted.

Benefits of spandex:

Adds stretch and flexibility
Helps shirts keep their shape
Great for fitted or athletic styles

Downside: Too much spandex can make the shirt clingy or tight, especially in hot weather.

Perfect for: High-movement matches and fitted t-shirts.

5. Nylon—A Lightweight Alternative

Why some brands use it:

Nylon is another synthetic fiber, like polyester. It’s smooth, soft, and strong, and it resists tears and abrasions.

Benefits of nylon:

Feels soft and stretchy
Dries fast
Very durable
Lightweight and flexible

Downside: Can trap heat more than polyester.

Perfect for: Cooler-weather play or players who prefer a silky-smooth feel.

6. Bamboo—A Natural Performance Fabric

Yes, bamboo! It might sound strange, but bamboo fabric is becoming more popular in athletic wear. It’s natural, soft, and breathable. Bamboo fibers can also help with odor control.

Benefits of bamboo:

Super soft and comfortable
Naturally moisture-wicking
Breathable and odor-resistant
Eco-friendly

Downside: Usually more expensive and may not be as stretchy as synthetic blends.

Perfect for: Eco-conscious players and casual play.

7. Merino Wool—For Cool and Cold Days

Wool? For tennis? Believe it or not, merino wool can be great in cooler weather. It’s lightweight, breathable, and naturally moisture-wicking. It also keeps you warm when it’s cold and cool when it’s warm.

Benefits of merino wool:

Excellent temperature control
Soft and non-itchy
Naturally fights odors

Downside: Not ideal for hot, sunny days. More expensive than other fabrics.

Perfect for: Indoor courts or cool-weather matches.

So, What’s the Best Material?

Here’s the short answer: For most players, polyester or polyester blends are the best material for tennis t-shirts.

They give you moisture control, comfort, and durability—everything a tennis player needs. But the “best” material also depends on your style, how much you sweat, the weather, and how the shirt fits.

How to Choose the Right Tennis T-Shirt

When shopping for tennis t-shirts, ask yourself:

Do I sweat a lot? Go for moisture-wicking fabrics like polyester.
Do I prefer a soft feel? Try cotton blends or bamboo.
Do I need to stretch? Look for shirts with spandex or elastane.
Is it hot or cold where I play? Pick the fabric based on the climate.

Also, check the label for:

Breathability
Moisture-wicking
Stretch and fit
Washing instructions

Care Tips for Your Tennis T-Shirts

To keep your tennis t-shirts in top shape:

Wash them in cold water
Avoid using fabric softeners (they block moisture-wicking)
Air dry or tumble dry on low
Turn them inside out to protect logos or prints

Taking care of your shirts means they’ll last longer—and keep you feeling fresh on the court.

Also Read:- How Often to Wash Jackets at Home Guide

Final Thoughts

Tennis is a game of movement, strategy, and comfort. The right T-shirt material will help you move freely, stay cool, and feel confident. Whether you use high-tech polyester, soft bamboo, or mixed favorites, make sure your tennis t-shirt works.

At Big Margin Tennis, we believe that the perfect game begins with perfect equipment. For this reason, we offer high-performance t-shirts that keep you focused and fresh so you can play big and win big.