Is Dri Fit Polyester or Cotton?

If you’ve ever worn a Dri-Fit shirt on a hot day, you already know the magic: it feels light, dries fast, and doesn’t turn into a heavy, soggy mess once you start sweating.

But here’s the common question people ask before ordering uniforms:

Is Dri Fit polyester or cotton?

So… what is Dri Fit made of?

In most cases, Dri Fit is made from polyester (or a polyester blend). It’s a synthetic fabric designed to manage sweat better than traditional cotton by moving moisture away from your skin so it can evaporate faster. That’s why it’s a favorite for sports, outdoor events, and high-movement work.

Cotton, on the other hand, is a natural fiber. It’s soft and breathable—but it tends to absorb moisture and hold onto it, which can make it feel heavier during intense activity.

Why people think Dri Fit might be cotton

Because “Dri Fit” often gets used as a catch-all term for comfortable athletic shirts, some assume it’s just a special type of cotton.

But the truth is:
Cotton and Dri Fit are built for different jobs.

• Cotton = comfy for casual wear, feels soft, but can get heavy with sweat

• Dri Fit (polyester-based) = designed for sweat control, dries quickly, stays lightweight

When polyester-based Dri Fit is the better choice

If your shirt needs to perform—not just look good—Dri Fit is usually the winner. It’s great for:

• Sports teams & leagues (training, tournaments, intramurals)

• Company outings & team-building

• Outdoor work uniforms

• Fun runs, marathons, and fitness events

• Staff shirts for active roles (logistics, event crews, on-ground teams)

Basically: if your people will sweat, move, and stay under the sun—Dri Fit helps them stay comfortable.

When cotton still makes sense

Cotton can still be a solid choice if your priority is a more classic, everyday feel. It’s commonly chosen for:

• Casual merch and giveaways

• Office or indoor wear (especially air-conditioned environments)

• Lifestyle shirts where softness is the priority

Choosing between Dri Fit and cotton for your team

Here’s a simple way to decide:

Choose Dri Fit if you need:

• moisture management

• quick-drying comfort

• lightweight feel for active use

Choose cotton if you want:

• a softer, more traditional fabric feel

• a more casual, everyday shirt vibe

Make your team look sharp and feel even better

The best uniforms aren’t just “nice to wear”—they’re the kind your team actually wants to wear. And if your group needs comfort that can keep up with movement, sweat, and long days, polyester-based Dri Fit is usually the way to go.

Ready to customize yours? Check out Team Dri-Fit Shirts and let’s create something your team will be proud to wear.