Micro honeycomb fabric is a textured knitted fabric, usually made from polyester, with a fine honeycomb-like surface structure. It is widely used in sportswear, jerseys, activewear, school uniforms, training T-shirts, and promotional garments because it offers a good balance of breathability, durability, lightweight comfort, and visual texture.
Compared with plain polyester jersey, micro honeycomb has a more technical surface and can provide better airflow depending on the knitting construction.
This guide explains what micro honeycomb fabric is, its GSM, features, advantages, sportswear applications, and what buyers should check before ordering in bulk.
What Is Micro Honeycomb Fabric?
Micro honeycomb fabric is a knitted fabric with a small repeating honeycomb or cellular surface pattern.
The pattern is finer than regular honeycomb fabric, which gives it a more subtle and refined appearance.
It is commonly made from:
- 100% polyester
- Polyester-spandex blends
- Other synthetic fibre blends
In the sportswear market, polyester micro honeycomb is especially common because polyester is durable, quick drying, and suitable for many printing methods.
Why Is It Called Micro Honeycomb?
The name comes from the fabric’s small honeycomb-like texture.
“Micro” refers to the smaller, finer surface pattern compared with larger honeycomb constructions.
The texture may appear as:
- Tiny hexagonal patterns
- Fine geometric cells
- Small ventilation points
- Subtle textured loops
- Micro-perforated structures
The exact appearance can vary from one supplier to another.
What Does Micro Honeycomb Fabric Look Like?
Micro honeycomb usually has a fine textured surface that is more visible than plain jersey but less open than mesh.
It often gives garments a:
- Technical look
- Premium sportswear appearance
- Slightly structured feel
- Clean and modern finish
Because the pattern is small, it can work well for both plain dyed and printed garments.
Is Micro Honeycomb a Jersey Fabric?
Yes, micro honeycomb can be used as a sports jersey fabric.
More precisely, “micro honeycomb” describes the surface construction, while “jersey” describes how the fabric is used.
Micro honeycomb polyester is commonly used for:
- Football jerseys
- Cricket jerseys
- Training shirts
- School sportswear
- Team uniforms
- Activewear
So terms such as Micro Honeycomb Polyester Jersey Fabric are commonly used in the market when the fabric is intended for sports jersey production.
What Is the GSM of Micro Honeycomb Fabric?
GSM means grams per square metre.
It indicates the approximate weight of the fabric.
Micro honeycomb fabric is commonly available in lightweight and medium-weight ranges.
Typical sportswear GSM ranges may include:
- 100–130 GSM – lightweight sports T-shirts and running tops
- 130–160 GSM – general jerseys and training wear
- 160–190 GSM – school sportswear and slightly heavier jerseys
- 190 GSM and above – more structured garments
These are general ranges only.
Actual GSM depends on:
- Yarn denier
- Knitting density
- Fabric finish
- Pattern depth
- Composition
- Machine setup
The right GSM depends on the final garment and climate.
Is Higher GSM Better?
Not necessarily.
A higher GSM fabric is heavier and may feel more substantial, but it is not automatically better.
For example:
Running jersey:
Lower GSM may be preferable for lightness and airflow.
School sports uniform:
Medium GSM may offer better durability.
Premium teamwear:
A slightly higher GSM may provide more structure.
The correct GSM should match the garment application.
Main Features of Micro Honeycomb Fabric
1. Breathable Structure
The textured knit construction can help improve air movement through the fabric.
This is useful for sportswear and active garments.
2. Lightweight
Many micro honeycomb fabrics are designed to remain lightweight.
This helps improve comfort during movement.
3. Quick Drying
Polyester fibres absorb relatively little moisture and generally dry quickly.
4. Durable
Polyester micro honeycomb can handle regular washing and repeated wear.
5. Textured Appearance
The fine honeycomb surface gives the garment a more premium appearance than basic plain jersey.
6. Wrinkle Resistant
Polyester micro honeycomb usually creases less than cotton fabrics.
7. Easy Maintenance
It generally requires less ironing and dries faster after washing.
8. Suitable for Sportswear Printing
Many polyester micro honeycomb fabrics can be used for sublimation and other sportswear printing methods.
Is Micro Honeycomb Fabric Breathable?
Yes, in most sportswear constructions.
The fine honeycomb structure creates small spaces that can allow air to circulate.
This helps improve comfort during physical activity.
However, breathability depends on:
- GSM
- Knit density
- Yarn type
- Pattern size
- Finishing
- Fabric thickness
A lower-GSM micro honeycomb will usually feel more breathable than a dense, heavy version.
Is Micro Honeycomb Fabric Quick Drying?
Yes, especially when made from polyester.
Polyester absorbs much less water than cotton, so moisture tends to remain closer to the surface and evaporate faster.
The textured surface can also increase surface area and improve airflow.
This makes micro honeycomb useful for:
- Sportswear
- Gym T-shirts
- Outdoor uniforms
- Team jerseys
- Training apparel
Is Micro Honeycomb Moisture Wicking?
It can be, but not every micro honeycomb fabric is automatically moisture wicking.
Moisture-wicking performance depends on:
- Yarn structure
- Fabric construction
- Chemical finish
- Surface treatment
Some micro honeycomb fabrics are specifically finished to move sweat away from the skin more efficiently.
For performance sportswear, buyers should ask the supplier whether the fabric has a moisture-management finish.
Micro Honeycomb vs Regular Honeycomb Fabric
Both fabrics have a honeycomb-like pattern, but the scale of the texture is different.
| Feature | Micro Honeycomb | Regular Honeycomb |
|---|---|---|
| Pattern size | Small and fine | Larger and more visible |
| Appearance | Subtle and technical | Bold textured look |
| Breathability | Good | Good to very good |
| Surface feel | Smoother | More pronounced texture |
| Printing | Usually good | Good |
| Best use | Jerseys, activewear | Jerseys, polos, sportswear |
Micro honeycomb is often preferred when a finer, cleaner sportswear look is required.
Micro Honeycomb vs Mesh Fabric
Mesh is generally more open than micro honeycomb.
Mesh fabric usually provides:
- Greater airflow
- More visible holes
- More aggressive sportswear look
Micro honeycomb generally provides:
- Better surface coverage
- Finer texture
- More structured appearance
- Better balance between airflow and coverage
For maximum ventilation, mesh may perform better.
For general jerseys and sports T-shirts, micro honeycomb is often a more versatile choice.
Micro Honeycomb vs Dot Knit Fabric
Micro honeycomb and dot knit are both textured polyester sportswear fabrics.
The main difference is the surface pattern.
Micro honeycomb usually has a small cellular or honeycomb design.
Dot knit usually has repeated dots or small perforated points.
Both can be used for:
- Jerseys
- Sports T-shirts
- Activewear
- School uniforms
The best choice depends on the visual effect and airflow required.
Sportswear Uses of Micro Honeycomb Fabric
Football Jerseys
Micro honeycomb can work well for football jerseys because it is:
- Lightweight
- Breathable
- Quick drying
- Suitable for team designs
Cricket Jerseys
It is widely suitable for cricket jerseys, especially where sublimation printing is required.
Running T-Shirts
Lower-GSM micro honeycomb can provide a lightweight and breathable feel.
Gym Wear
It can be used for loose-fit training T-shirts and performance tops.
School Sportswear
The durability and easy-care nature of polyester make it practical for school sports uniforms.
Corporate Sports Events
Micro honeycomb T-shirts can be used for:
- Marathons
- Sports days
- Promotional events
- Team-building programs
Promotional Sportswear
The textured surface gives promotional T-shirts a more premium look than basic polyester jersey.
Is Micro Honeycomb Suitable for Sublimation Printing?
In many cases, yes.
Polyester micro honeycomb can be suitable for sublimation because sublimation dye bonds well with polyester fibres.
It can be used for:
- Full-print jerseys
- Team logos
- Player numbers
- Sponsor logos
- Gradient designs
- Custom patterns
However, always test the actual fabric first.
The textured surface may slightly affect very fine artwork.
Is Micro Honeycomb Suitable for Screen Printing?
Yes, depending on the fabric and design.
Screen printing can work well for:
- Logos
- Text
- Simple graphics
- Team branding
Because the fabric has texture, very fine detail may not appear as smooth as it would on flat jersey fabric.
A print test is recommended.
Is Micro Honeycomb Stretchable?
Standard polyester micro honeycomb may have some mechanical stretch because it is knitted.
However, stretch levels vary.
For garments requiring more flexibility, choose:
- Polyester-spandex blends
- Four-way stretch constructions
- Fabrics with better recovery
These are better for fitted activewear and gym clothing.
Is Micro Honeycomb Good for Hot Weather?
Yes, especially in lightweight GSM ranges.
For hot climates, choose micro honeycomb fabric with:
- Lower GSM
- Open knit construction
- Good airflow
- Moisture-management finish
- Lightweight yarn
This makes it suitable for outdoor sports and summer uniforms.
Advantages of Micro Honeycomb Fabric
Micro honeycomb polyester offers several benefits:
- Lightweight
- Breathable
- Quick drying
- Durable
- Easy to wash
- Attractive textured surface
- Suitable for sportswear
- Suitable for sublimation in many constructions
- Good for bulk production
- Available in multiple GSM options
Limitations of Micro Honeycomb Fabric
It also has some limitations.
Snagging
Textured surfaces may snag if they come into contact with rough objects.
Print Texture
The honeycomb pattern may remain visible through detailed prints.
Heat Sensitivity
Polyester can be damaged by excessive heat.
Quality Variation
Different suppliers may sell different constructions under the same name.
Transparency
Very lightweight versions may provide less coverage.
How to Choose Micro Honeycomb Fabric
Before ordering, check:
GSM
Select the correct weight for the garment.
DIA or Width
Confirm that the width suits the cutting requirement.
Composition
Check whether it is:
- 100% polyester
- Polyester-spandex
- Another blend
Surface Pattern
Check the size and consistency of the honeycomb texture.
Breathability
Compare airflow between fabric samples.
Stretch
Test stretch and recovery if the garment requires flexibility.
Shrinkage
Check dimensional stability after washing and heat exposure.
Colour Fastness
Test resistance to:
- Washing
- Rubbing
- Perspiration
Printing Performance
Run a sample print before bulk production.
Fabric Defects
Inspect for:
- Needle lines
- Holes
- Uneven texture
- Shade variation
- Knitting defects
How to Select Micro Honeycomb for Different Sports
For football jerseys, choose:
- Lightweight GSM
- Good airflow
- Sublimation suitability
For cricket jerseys, choose:
- Medium-light GSM
- Smooth print performance
- Good colour reproduction
For gym wear, choose:
- Comfortable hand feel
- Stretch where required
- Quick drying
For school sportswear, choose:
- Medium GSM
- Better durability
- Good colour fastness
Is Micro Honeycomb Suitable for Bulk Garment Manufacturing?
Yes.
It is practical for bulk garment production because it is generally:
- Easy to cut
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Suitable for printing
- Easy to maintain
- Available in multiple colours
It is commonly used by:
- Sportswear manufacturers
- Uniform suppliers
- Garment exporters
- Promotional apparel companies
- Teamwear brands
- School uniform manufacturers
What Should Bulk Buyers Ask Before Ordering?
Before placing an order, ask the supplier for:
- GSM
- DIA or width
- Composition
- Available colours
- MOQ
- Roll weight
- Price per kg
- Shrinkage
- Colour fastness
- Sublimation suitability
- Lead time
For large quantities, always check a sample first.
Final Thoughts
Micro honeycomb fabric is a practical polyester knitted fabric for sportswear because it combines breathability, lightweight performance, durability, quick drying, and a technical textured appearance.
It is especially suitable for:
- Football jerseys
- Cricket jerseys
- Sports T-shirts
- Training wear
- School sports uniforms
- Activewear
- Promotional sportswear
The best micro honeycomb fabric should be selected based on GSM, DIA, fabric composition, airflow, stretch, printing method, and final garment application.
For bulk production, sample testing is always recommended before confirming the full order.
Looking for Micro Honeycomb Fabric in Bulk?
Walrus – Yes India Can supplies polyester knitted fabrics for sportswear, garment manufacturing, uniforms, jerseys, and activewear.
Micro Honeycomb and other polyester fabric varieties are available for different production requirements.
Buyers can enquire about available:
- GSM
- DIA
- Colours
- Quantity
- Pricing
Website: yesindiacan.in
Location: Tiruppur, Tamil Nadu
