The humble T-shirt is usually the first piece of team apparel anyone owns. It is the tryout shirt, the spirit-week shirt and the base layer under every jacket in the closet. Because tees are worn and washed constantly, small differences in fabric and construction show up quickly.
Fiber choices
- Cotton feels soft and familiar and takes print well, but it holds sweat and can shrink if washed hot.
- Polyester performance knits wick moisture and dry fast, which makes them popular for practices and warm-weather games.
- Blends sit in between: softer than pure polyester, less shrink than pure cotton, and a slightly heathered look.
Weight and feel
Heavier tees feel sturdy and drape away from the body; lighter ones are cooler and more flexible. For an outdoor summer event a light, breathable knit is kinder to players and fans alike. For a keepsake shirt that will be worn for years, a heavier knit tends to hold its shape and collar better.
Fit
Cuts vary widely between makers, so a medium from one supplier can fit like a large from another. Before a group order, pass around a set of sample sizes and let people try them on. Our Ordering Wisely page explains how a sizing run saves reorders later.
Embroidery or print?
Tees are thin and stretchy, which makes them the trickiest garment for embroidery. A small left-chest logo or a short name in satin stitch can work well with a stable backing. Large, dense designs tend to pull and pucker a light knit and feel heavy against the skin. For big chest graphics and numbers, print is usually the better match, while embroidery shines on heavier pieces like sweatshirts and polo shirts. See Embroidery and Lettering, Explained for the details.
Care
- Read the permanent care label sewn into the shirt and follow it.
- Turn tees inside out and wash in cold water to protect printed or stitched designs.
- Tumble dry low or hang to dry to limit shrinkage.
- Avoid fabric softener on performance knits; it can reduce their ability to wick.
Tees for every season
In Louisville and Southern Indiana, a tee is the base of almost any game-day outfit, from a warm spring evening to a cold November night under layers. Our layering guide and School Spirit Wear on a Budget show how to get the most from a few good shirts. Back to the full Jacket Guide.