Living in Kuala Lumpur, we all feel this pain: step out from your air-conditioned office for lunch, and within five minutes you’re facing the sweltering heat.
This presents a unique challenge for Malaysian businesses and HR managers. Choosing the inappropriate fabric when ordering custom made uniform often leads to employee complaints. If the fabric is too thick, outdoor sales teams will feel uncomfortable; if it’s too thin, office staff in air-conditioned rooms will feel freezing.
In 2026, the two most popular fabrics for custom uniform were cotton double-knit and microfiber (quick-drying fabric). But which one is right for your team?
In this guide, we’ll detail the differences between various fabrics to help you choose the best fit for the Malaysian climate.
What is double-knit cotton fabric? (Premium Choice)
Many people confuse “double-knit fabric” with standard “single-knit fabric” (the kind used for inexpensive promotional T-shirts). They are not the same.
Double-knit cotton fabric is thicker, heavier, and has a more substantial feel than regular T-shirts. Due to its double-knit construction, both sides of the fabric are smooth and even, giving it a premium feel often associated with luxury brands.
Why choose double-knit cotton?
- Professional look: The matte finish looks more sophisticated than glossy athletic fabrics.
- Better embroidery results: If your company logo requires intricate embroidery, double-knit fabric is stable enough to support the stitches without wrinkling or deforming.
- Comfort in air-conditioned environments: For employees working in cold office buildings (such as KL City Centre or Bangsar South), the thicker 200gsm–220gsm fabric provides warmth and comfort.
Best suited for: Corporate uniforms, indoor retail staff, client meetings, and upscale merchandise.
To understand the quality, you must know the [difference between single and double knits].
What is microfiber? (The Vitality Choice)
In Malaysia, we usually refer to this fabric as “knitted fabric” or “quick-drying fabric.” Microfiber is a synthetic fiber blend (usually polyester) designed specifically to wick away sweat. Unlike cotton fabrics that become heavy when wet, microfiber draws sweat away from the body and evaporates it quickly to the fabric’s surface.
Why choose microfiber?
- Combats moisture: In our tropical climate, it’s the only sensible choice for outdoor activities.
- Quick-drying: Even if your team is drenched in sweat during a “team-building” session or outdoor roadshow, this shirt will dry in minutes.
- Wrinkle-free: No ironing required—a huge advantage for single or busy employees who want to “wash and wear.”
Best for: Custom Jerseys, Family Day T-shirts, warehouse/logistics personnel, and outdoor activity workers.
Direct comparison between Cotton & Microfiber
Here is a comparison of these two heavyweight products in the eyes of Malaysian users:
| Feature | Cotton Interlock | Microfiber (Dri-Fit) |
|---|---|---|
| Breathability | High (Air flows through naturally) | Medium (Traps heat, but wicks sweat) |
| Sweat Management | Absorbs sweat (Can get heavy/wet) | Evaporates sweat (Feels light/dry) |
| Texture | Soft, thick, natural feel | Smooth, synthetic, slippery feel |
| Durability | High (Resists pilling) | Very High (Resists fading & shrinking) |
| Maintenance | Needs ironing | Wrinkle-free (No ironing needed) |
| Best Printing | Silk Screen or DTF | Sublimation |
Final: Which one should you go after?
At JS Uniform, we recommend choosing fabrics based on your employees’ primary work environment.
Scenario A: Company Headquarters
- If your team spends 90% of their time in an air-conditioned office, choose a pure cotton double-knit fabric. It looks more upscale and professional. It pairs well with trousers or skirts and reflects your brand’s emphasis on quality.
Scenario Two: Family Day or Fun Run
- If you’re planning a company trip to Port Dickson or a charity run at Merdeka Square, be sure to choose a microfiber fabric. Making employees run in heavy cotton clothing under the Malaysian sun will only make them uncomfortable.
Scenario C: Mixed Workforce
- For teams that need to move between the warehouse and the office, consider a cotton microfiber blend (CVC). It combines the softness of cotton with the durability of polyester.
Conclusion:
There are no “bad” fabrics, only the wrong uses. Investing in the right fabrics makes employees feel valued for their comfort, thus boosting morale and productivity.
Still unsure which fabric feels best? Don’t guess based on pictures alone. Visit our showroom in Ampang to feel the difference between our premium cotton double-knit and microfiber fabrics before placing your order.
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