The term "jersey" for athletic wear comes from the island of Jersey in the English Channel. The island was known for producing a specific type of knit wool fabric, also called "jersey." The fabric was durable, comfortable and suitable for clothing like a jersey shirt. Early athletic uniforms were often made from this type of knit fabric. Over time, the name "jersey" became synonymous with the athletic uniforms themselves.

A t-shirt is a casual, everyday shirt. A jersey is a specialised athletic shirt designed for performance. However, there can be overlap between the two. For example, while many tees are made from cotton or a cotton blend, some tees may be made from performance fabrics, like a performance jersey. A jersey shirt may have a more casual style than a jersey made for playing soccer, basketball or another sport.

Authentic jerseys are typically made from high-performance materials like adidas AEROREADY or CLIMACOOL, featuring a polyester blend with a smooth and breathable feel. Replica jerseys are often made from heavier materials like cotton blends. An authentic jersey shirt generally has badges and logos that are heat-pressed or engineered into the fabric for a seamless look. In contrast, a replica jersey's badges are likely stitched on. An authentic jersey is often cut with a slim, athletic fit designed for on-field performance.