Fabric · How to
GSM explained: how to choose t-shirt and polo fabric weight
GSM is the number that most affects how your garment feels and drapes. Here’s what GSM means and which weights work best for t-shirts, polos, and knit basics.
Founder, Trishakti Apparel 2 min read
When a factory asks what GSM you want, they’re asking how heavy your fabric should be — and it’s one of the biggest decisions for how your garment feels. Here’s a plain-English guide.
What GSM means
GSM = grams per square metre — the fabric’s weight. Lower GSM = lighter, thinner, more breathable. Higher GSM = heavier, thicker, more premium-feeling and durable. It’s not “better or worse,” it’s fit-for-purpose.
Rough GSM guide for knit basics
| Garment | Typical GSM | Feel |
|---|---|---|
| Lightweight tee | 140–160 | Thin, breathable, summer |
| Standard tee | 160–200 | The everyday sweet spot |
| Premium / heavyweight tee | 200–240+ | Structured, boxy, premium |
| Pique polo | 180–220 | Classic polo body |
How to choose
- Match your market — fashion/streetwear leans heavier (200+); basics and hot climates lean lighter.
- Heavier fabric costs more (more fibre) — balance feel against price.
- Always judge GSM on a physical sample, not a number on paper.
Not sure which weight suits your product? We’ll send samples across a GSM range so you can feel the difference. Ask for samples.
Frequently asked
Should I choose 180 gsm or 240 gsm for my t-shirts?
What GSM is best for oversized t-shirts?
What is GSM in t-shirts?
How much does a t-shirt weigh?
How much does a polo shirt weigh?
What GSM is a heavyweight t-shirt?
About the author
Santosh Rijal runs Trishakti Apparel, the export knitwear factory his family built on three decades in Nepal’s fashion trade. He writes about sourcing, duty and production from the factory floor in Gaindakot.