Heavyweight t-shirt is a term I’m sure we are all familiar with. I think it’s also a term many of us understand but, maybe not fully. In this article we will get into exactly what makes a t-shirt a heavyweight t-shirt, the various methods used to measure material weight, and explore the distinctions between heavyweight, medium weight, and light weight and what might make one preferable over another.
A heavyweight t-shirt is characterized by its dense and substantial fabric, providing a sturdier feel compared to lighter t-shirts. The primary goal is to offer durability and longevity, making it a good choice for those looking for a tough garment that is useful for work and withstands wear and tear. But it’s also quite popular for those who just enjoy wearing a t-shirt with a more substantial feel. I’ve worn heavyweight t-shirts since high school and prefer their feel over lighter weight shirts overall, but I also live in Arizona so a lightweight shirt can be nice too.
How is fabric weight measured?
There are guidelines out there that describe what a heavyweight t-shirt is and it’s based on the weight of the fabric used to make the t-shirt. The weight of a t-shirt's material is typically measured in ounces per square yard (oz./yd²) or grams per square meter (GSM). These metrics indicate the density and thickness of the fabric. The higher the weight, the denser and more substantial the material.
Ounces per Square Yard (oz./yd²) is commonly used in the United States, this measurement refers to the weight of one square yard of fabric. For heavyweight t-shirts, a range of 6.0 oz./yd² and above is typical.
Grams per Square Meter (GSM) is more prevalent in the international market, GSM measures the weight of one square meter of fabric. Heavyweight t-shirts often fall within the range of 200 GSM and above.
Heavyweight to lightweight.
So, which do you prefer? Here is a quick rundown of the different material weights and a few attributes of each for which they are known. We hear about heavyweights a lot but not the other two too often. Although we all recognize a lightweight t-shirt when we put it on. A heavyweight t-shirt is 6.0 oz./yd² and above or 200 GSM and above. Known for durability and thickness, heavyweight t-shirts are ideal for colder climates, work wear or individuals seeking a more substantial feel. They provide a rugged and long-lasting option, suitable for frequent wear and various activities.
A medium weight t-shirt is 4.5 oz./yd² - 5.9 oz./yd² or 150 GSM - 199 GSM. Balanced between light and heavy, medium-weight t-shirts are versatile and suitable for various climates. They offer a comfortable feel with minimal compromise on durability, lighter weight than a heavyweight t-shirt but not as thin as a lightweight, making them popular for everyday wear.
A lightweight t-shirt is 4.4 oz./yd² and below or 149 GSM and below. Lighter t-shirts are favored for warmer weather and casual occasions. While they may not have the same durability as their heavier counterparts, they can be more versatile in that they can be layered and easily worn under other clothing items and still provide a breathable and comfortable option.
Heavyweight t-shirts have been around for a long time and will continue to be. I know when I was younger I used to always associate the weight of the fabric with quality. It was one of the reasons I bought them. These days I know that’s not necessarily the case but I felt as if I was getting more for my money with a heavyweight t-shirt than others. I feel as time has gone on manufacturers have focused more on selling points with clothes and less on quality. You can still get a heavyweight t-shirt for sure but how good is it? Is it comfortable, does it look good on you…do you even like it? These are all things that you should think about when shopping for yourself because there is a good chance the company that makes your t-shirts doesn’t.
Our premium cotton t-shirts at Tolerance Apparel are heavyweight t-shirts that weigh in at 220 GSM. However, they wear much lighter. They feel heavy in the hand but once you put it on you’d think it was more of a medium weight. The fabrics we chose are extremely soft and breathable which gives them a lighter more comfortable feel. We’ve used a spandex blend so your t-shirt retains it shape as you wear it ensuring you look your best all day long. So, check them out. It’ll be the most comfortable heavyweight t-shirt you’ve ever owned.
