What piqué knit is and where it is used

Short answer: Piqué is a knit with small raised squares that give the surface structure. The structure lifts the fabric away from the skin and makes it airier than smooth jersey. It is classic in polo shirts, and it needs a little care in the wash, because the structure can be pressed flat.

Structure instead of a smooth surface

By mixing stitches and elongated loops, a pattern of small squares or diamonds forms. The surface gets a light relief that you can both see and feel. The fabric becomes a little thicker and stiffer than a jersey knitted from the same yarn, because there is more material per square centimetre.

How the structure is made

Piqué is knitted on machines where the needles are controlled so that some stitches are elongated and others are not. The elongated loops pull the fabric together and form the small raised squares. This is part of the knitting itself, not something added afterwards, so the structure runs through the whole fabric.

Why it is classic in polos

The structure keeps its shape around the collar and placket and looks neat all day. At the same time, the hollows between the squares let air through in warm weather. That is why piqué is often seen in polo shirts. For the same feel in something softer, see bamboo hoodies for women.

Why it holds its shape

Because the squares are knitted into the fabric, they help it keep its form around the collar, cuffs and hem. It is a little firmer than jersey and does not give as easily. That also means it hangs less softly, so check that the fit is right before you decide.

Why it feels airy

Because the raised squares rest on the skin while the hollows keep a little distance, small pockets of air form between fabric and body. That gives a drier, cooler feel than smooth jersey, which lies flat against the skin. The difference is greatest in warm weather and during activity.

What to know before washing

The structure can be pressed flat by high heat and hard creases. Wash cool, choose a gentle programme and avoid strong spinning. Let the garment hang instead of lying pressed together in a pile, and iron only gently and inside out if needed. That way the small squares keep their shape longest.

Does piqué pill less

Often yes, because the surface is firmer and the fibres sit closer together. The raised squares also protect the hollows from rubbing directly against other clothes. No knit is entirely free of pilling, but piqué usually keeps a neater look than a loose, soft jersey.

Where piqué fits and where not

Piqué suits polo shirts, T-shirts and light clothes for home, where you want structure and air. It suits underwear or tight layers less, because the structure can leave marks on the skin. See the home clothes under bamboo loungewear for women.

How to choose

Hold the fabric up to the light and feel the surface. An even structure with uniform squares is a good sign, and you can feel whether the fabric is stable without turning stiff. See the bamboo T-shirt for women too, and choose what suits daily use.

Frequently asked questions

Is piqué warmer than jersey

No, usually cooler, because the structure creates distance between skin and fabric. That leaves room for air and a drier feel in warm weather.

Does piqué pill less

Often yes, because the surface is firmer and the fibres sit closer. No knit is fully free of pilling, but the structure usually keeps the look neater.