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GUIDE – USA

Choosing t-shirt weight (GSM) and fit.

Weight, fabric and fit change how a tee feels, looks and lasts.

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Quick answer

T-shirt weight is measured in GSM (grams per square meter). As a rough guide, 140–160 GSM (about 4.1–4.7 oz) is lightweight, 170–200 GSM (about 5–5.9 oz) is midweight and 220 GSM (about 6.5 oz) and above is heavyweight. Heavier tees feel more structured and durable, while lighter tees drape and breathe more. Fit matters as much as weight.

Which weight for which use

  • Events, promotions and warm climates: lightweight to midweight
  • Staff uniforms and everyday merch: midweight
  • Retail merch, streetwear and premium ranges: midweight to heavyweight

Fabric

  • Combed, ringspun cotton: smooth and soft, and prints well
  • Organic cotton: certified organic fiber, available across weights
  • Blends and recycled fibers: softer drape and different textures, depending on the mix

Fit

  • Classic or regular: straight body, suits most people and uniforms
  • Relaxed or boxy: wider body, popular for streetwear and merch
  • Slim or fitted: closer cut through the body
  • Oversized: dropped shoulders and longer body for a fashion look

Brands describe fit in their own way. Stanley/Stella, for example, groups its styles into four fits (fitted, medium, relaxed and oversized), and its fit guide shows how each one sits on the body. We can help you compare fits across brands before you order.

Ask us for the size chart for any style before you confirm sizes. Browse our organic cotton t-shirts.

Questions

What does GSM mean on a t-shirt?

Grams per square meter. It measures fabric weight, so a higher number means a heavier fabric.

Is a heavier t-shirt better quality?

Not necessarily. Heavier tees feel more structured and durable, while quality lightweight tees are soft and breathable. The best choice depends on how the tee will be worn.

Do heavier tees print better?

Both print well. Heavier tees give a sturdy base for large prints and embroidery, while lighter tees suit soft water-based prints.

Related guides

OCC APPAREL – USA

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