Cycling Jersey Fabric Guide: What Pro Teams Wear and Why

All pro cycling jerseys are 100% polyester — the sublimation print is the entire design, so the fabric has to accept dye. The standard weight is 120-140 GSM: light enough to be aerodynamic and breathable, heavy enough to drape well and not look see-through.

For cooler-weather jerseys (spring/fall), we use 160-180 GSM with a brushed interior for warmth. For hot-weather and racing jerseys, we use 110-130 GSM with a mesh side panel for ventilation.

Pro jerseys use hydrophobic polyester (moisture-wicking) that pulls sweat away from the skin to the fabric surface, where it evaporates. The result: the rider feels dry even after 2-3 hours of climbing.

Avoid hydrophilic treatments (which absorb sweat) — they feel wet and stay wet. Quick-dry tests are simple: drop water on the fabric, it should spread and evaporate in under 30 seconds, not sit in a bead.

For outdoor cycling, UPF 30+ is a minimum. UPF 50+ is standard for pro team kits. The tighter the weave, the better the UV protection. Our 140 GSM pro jersey fabric is UPF 50+ rated.

Pro jerseys use flatlock seams everywhere — they lie flat against the skin and don't chafe under sustained effort. The hem is held in place by silicone gripper elastic (not regular elastic which can pinch). Sleeves use raw-cut or laser-cut edges for aerodynamics.

Avoid jerseys with raised overlock seams in the side or shoulder — they will chafe on a long ride. Always stress-test samples before bulk production.