WHAT IS
GSM?
GSM stands for grams per square meter — the industry standard for measuring fabric weight. It tells you how heavy, warm, and dense a fabric is before you buy. From lightweight summer tees to heavyweight 10 oz hoodies, GSM is your guide to choosing the right material for any garment.
GSM RANGES &
THEIR APPLICATIONS
Understanding GSM ranges lets you match fabric weight to garment function. A higher GSM means a heavier, denser material — more warmth and structure. A lower GSM means lighter, more breathable fabric better suited for warm-weather wear.
Breathable and airy — ideal for summer wear, athletic tops, and linings where airflow is priority.
The sweet spot for year-round wear — standard sweatshirts, French terry hoodies, and mid-season tops.
Dense, warm, and structured — heavy hoodies, outerwear, and premium blanks built for cold weather and durability.
VS TEES HOODIE
COLLECTIONS BY WEIGHT
Each step up in GSM adds density, warmth, and structure. Choose the weight that fits your climate, use case, and brand positioning.
Balanced warmth and breathability — ideal for year-round casual wear, spring/fall layers, and everyday blanks.
Shop 300 GSM Heavyweight 400 GSM Hoodie CollectionSubstantial and warm — the go-to weight for premium streetwear blanks, retail drops, and cooler climates.
Shop 400 GSM Ultra Heavyweight 500 GSM Hoodie CollectionMaximum density and warmth — built for cold weather outerwear, premium collections, and serious streetwear brands.
Shop 500 GSM 220–300 GSM FT French Terry HoodieLoopback knit with a smooth exterior — lighter than fleece, breathable, and the preferred blank for detailed screen printing.
Shop French TerryTYPES OF FABRIC
MATERIALS
From natural fibers to synthetic blends, each fabric type brings different GSM ranges, textures, and performance characteristics. The textile industry recognizes over 500 distinct weaves and knits — grouped here by construction type.
Cotton
Breathable, soft, and hypoallergenic. The most versatile natural fiber — used across virtually every GSM range from lightweight tees to heavy fleece.
Linen
Lightweight and moisture-wicking — perfect for warm climates. Typically low GSM (100–200 g/m²) with a naturally crisp texture.
Wool
Excellent insulation and natural stretch. Used in knitwear across a wide GSM range — heavier weights for outerwear, lighter for base layers.
Polyester
Durable, wrinkle-resistant, and quick-drying. Often blended with cotton to improve durability and print performance at any GSM.
Rayon
Silky texture with excellent drape — typically lightweight (100–150 GSM). Less durable when wet; best for linings and flowing garments.
Cotton Lawn & Poplin
Fine, smooth weaves (80–120 GSM) for shirts and dresses. Lightweight and breathable with a crisp hand feel.
Cotton Twill
Durable diagonal weave (200–350 GSM) used in chinos and workwear. Strong, abrasion-resistant, and structured.
Denim
Sturdy canvas weave (300–450 GSM) — synonymous with jeans. Heavy, durable, and highly abrasion-resistant.
Cotton Fleece
Brushed interior for softness and warmth (280–500 GSM). The backbone of classic sweatshirts, hoodies, and joggers. Excellent for screen printing.
French Terry
Loop-backed knit (220–300 GSM) offering moisture-wicking and a lighter weight than fleece. Smooth exterior takes prints beautifully.
Woven Fabrics
Interlaced yarns — canvas, twill, satin, denim. Structured and stable with minimal stretch. GSM range: 100–600+.
Knit Fabrics
Interlooped yarns — jersey, rib, French terry, fleece. Stretchy and comfortable. GSM range: 100–500+.
Non-Woven Fabrics
Bonded or felted construction — interfacing, felt. Used in linings and structural garment components.
Blended Fabrics
Combinations like cotton-polyester for optimized performance — improved durability, reduced shrinkage, and better print retention.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT
FABRIC FOR YOUR NEEDS
Match your fabric choice to four key variables: climate, activity level, durability needs, and desired hand feel. Use the guide below.
| Factor | Recommended GSM | Best Fabric Type | Example Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Warm Climate | 80–180 GSM | Cotton lawn, linen, rayon blend | Summer tees, dresses, linings |
| Cool / Year-Round | 220–320 GSM | French terry, jersey, mid fleece | Sweatshirts, lounge wear, layers |
| Cold Weather | 350–500+ GSM | Heavyweight cotton fleece | Heavy hoodies, outerwear, coats |
| Athletic / Active | 180–280 GSM | Jersey knit, French terry | Gym wear, sport tops, activewear |
| Workwear / Durable | 300–450 GSM | Cotton twill, heavy fleece | Workwear, uniforms, outerwear |
| Custom Printing | 250–400 GSM | Cotton fleece, French terry | Blank hoodies, sweatshirts, tees |
COTTON FLEECE VS.
FRENCH TERRY
Cotton Fleece is renowned for its plush interior and cozy warmth. This fabric is the backbone of classic sweatshirts and hoodies — a brushed interior creates air pockets that trap heat. A midweight fleece at 280–350 GSM strikes a balance between warmth and breathability; our heavyweight options at 350–500 GSM deliver serious insulation for cold-weather collections.
French terry features smooth exteriors with looped "terry" backs that absorb moisture and keep you comfortable during activities. Lighter than traditional fleece at around 220–300 GSM, French terry combines softness with excellent drape — a go-to for athletic and loungewear, and the preferred blank for detailed screen printing and embroidery.
MASTERING
FABRIC SELECTION
Match GSM to Weather
Low GSM for warm climates. High GSM (350+) for cold-weather collections. French terry for year-round versatility.
Best Blanks for Decoration
250–400 GSM cotton fleece and French terry hold screen printing, DTG, and embroidery with the cleanest results.
Higher GSM = Longer Life
Heavier fabrics resist pilling, abrasion, and shape loss. Premium heavyweight blanks at 400–500 GSM outlast lighter alternatives.
Drape vs Structure
Low GSM knits drape softly. High GSM fleece holds a structured shape. Choose based on your garment's silhouette goals.
