What GSM tells you
GSM is the weight of one square metre of fabric. Two T-shirts can look identical in photos but feel very different if one is twice the GSM of the other.
Typical ranges by garment
These are general industry ranges and vary by fabric type.
| Garment | Lighter | Typical | Heavier |
|---|---|---|---|
| T-shirts | ~140–160 | ~160–200 | 200+ |
| Polo shirts | ~170–190 | ~190–220 | 220+ |
| Sports jerseys | ~110–130 | ~130–160 | 160+ |
| Hoodies | ~240–300 | ~300–380 | 380+ |
| Workwear drill | Lighter drills | Medium drills | Heavy drills |
Higher GSM: pros and cons
- Pros: more durable, more structured, less see-through, warmer.
- Cons: warmer in hot weather, more expensive, slower to dry.
Lower GSM: pros and cons
- Pros: cooler, lighter, drapes well, quick-drying.
- Cons: less durable, can be see-through in light colours.
GSM is not the whole story
Quality also depends on yarn (combed vs carded cotton), knit density, finishing and construction. A well-made lighter fabric can outperform a cheap heavy one.
Choosing GSM for your order
Tell us how the garment will be used and in what climate. We recommend a weight and can send swatches. See hoodie GSM guide and sportswear fabrics explained.
Frequently asked questions
How is GSM measured?
A circle of fabric of known area is cut and weighed, and the weight is scaled to one square metre.