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What Is GSM in Fabric? A Weight Guide for T-Shirts, Hoodies and Teamwear
GSM means grams per square metre, the weight of the fabric. A higher GSM means a heavier, thicker fabric. As a rough guide, light T-shirts are about 120 to 150 GSM, heavyweight tees go above 180 GSM, and midweight sweatshirts and hoodies sit around 280 to 350 GSM.
GSM guide for custom sportswear
| Garment | Light | Mid | Heavy |
|---|---|---|---|
| T-shirts | 120 to 150 GSM | 150 to 180 GSM | 180 GSM and up |
| Sweatshirts and hoodies | 200 to 280 GSM | 280 to 350 GSM | 350 GSM and up |
| Team jerseys | Light polyester mesh and interlock | Rugby pique is denser | |
| BJJ gis | Single weave, 350 to 400 GSM | Pearl weave, 400 to 450 GSM | Double weave, 550 GSM and up |
Sources disagree a little on where light ends and heavy begins, so treat these as guides and confirm with a fabric swatch.
Does a higher GSM mean better quality?
Not always. GSM tells you weight, not quality. A heavy cotton tee feels premium for streetwear, but a light polyester jersey is better for a match because it dries fast.
Fibre, yarn, knit and finish all matter as much as weight. Ask for a sample and feel it.
Which GSM should you choose?
- Gym and training tees: light to mid weight polyester or cotton blend.
- Merch and streetwear tees: mid to heavy cotton, 180 GSM and up.
- Team jerseys: light polyester mesh or interlock that breathes.
- Hoodies and sweatshirts: midweight fleece for most climates, heavyweight for cold ones.
How is GSM measured?
A round sample of fabric is cut with a standard cutter and weighed. The weight is then scaled to one square metre and given in grams.
GSM vs oz per square yard
Some makers give fabric weight in ounces per square yard. To convert, 1 oz per square yard is about 34 GSM, so a 5.3 oz tee is about 180 GSM.
What GSM is a polo shirt?
Polo shirts are often pique fabric in a midweight range, heavier than a light tee. Ask for a swatch, because pique feels thicker than its weight suggests.
Garments made to your spec
Tell us the GSM and fabric you want, and QST will match it on your sample. We make T-shirts, polos, sweatshirts, tank tops, tracksuits and team uniforms.
QST International is a sportswear manufacturer in Sialkot, Pakistan. The facility is WRAP certified and certified to ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and ISO 45001, and it shares its ethical audit data with buyers through Sedex. The minimum order is 30 to 50 pieces per design, and a sample takes 7 to 10 days before bulk production starts. Ask for a quote.
Frequently asked questions
What does GSM mean in fabric?
Grams per square metre. It is the weight of one square metre of fabric.
What is a good GSM for a T-shirt?
About 150 to 180 GSM suits most tees. Go lighter for training and heavier for premium merch.
What GSM is a heavyweight hoodie?
Around 350 GSM and up is usually called heavyweight.
Is higher GSM better?
It is heavier, not always better. Pick the weight that suits the garment and the climate.
Is 180 GSM good for a T-shirt?
Yes. 180 GSM is a solid midweight to heavyweight tee that suits merchandise and everyday wear.
