How is GSM measured?
A 10 cm × 10 cm square of fabric is weighed and the result is multiplied by 100 to give grams per square metre. The number describes the fabric only, not the finished garment, so two hoodies with the same GSM can still differ in cut, lining and finish. GSM is the standard way blanks are compared because it is quick to check and hard to fake.
Light, medium, heavy and ultra heavy in GSM
| Band | GSM | Feels like | Best for | In our range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lightweight | 150–199 | Soft and cool, drapes close | Sports, giveaways, summer events | 150gsm performance tee, 180gsm classic and stretch tees |
| Midweight | 200–299 | The classic tee and polo feel | Staff uniforms, everyday merch | 200–260gsm cotton tees, 220–260gsm polos, 290gsm oversized crew |
| Heavyweight | 300–399 | Boxy and structured, holds a print flat | Streetwear labels, premium merch | 300gsm drop-shoulder tee, 300–350gsm hoodies, 320gsm crews and joggers |
| Ultra heavyweight | 400+ | Thick brushed fleece that keeps its shape | Labels, cold-climate teams, matching sets | 400, 420, 430 and 530gsm hoodies, crews and sweatpants |
Hoodie weights compared: 300 vs 350 vs 430 vs 530gsm
- 300gsm: everyday cotton hoodie. Light enough for most of the year, the usual choice for staff and events. Example: Classic Cotton Hoodie.
- 320–350gsm: fleece and oversized styles. Warmer and softer, with a relaxed drape that suits merch drops. Examples: Oversized Fleece Hoodie, Essential Oversized Hoodie.
- 375–430gsm: premium heavyweight. Noticeably thicker, boxy, holds a large print flat. Examples: Heavyweight Pullover Hoodie (420gsm), Heavyweight Premium Hoodie (430gsm).
- 530gsm: ultra heavyweight cotton. The heaviest hoodie we make; dense, warm and built for brands that want weight you can feel. Example: Ultra Heavyweight Cotton Hoodie.
How weight changes print and embroidery
Heavier fleece takes embroidery well: the stitches sit on a stable base and the logo keeps its shape. Full-colour digital print (DTF) works on every weight, but on very textured or brushed fleece the print can look slightly less opaque than on a smooth tee, so for large light-on-dark artwork we may suggest a test piece first. Big back prints look best on 400gsm and above because the fabric does not ripple.
Sizing and fit
Heavier hoodies are usually cut boxy or drop-shoulder, so they look oversized by design. Check the size chart on each product page, or compare chest width with a hoodie you already own using our size guide.
Which weight should you choose?
- Staff and events in most of Australia: 300–350gsm.
- Streetwear and premium merch: 400–430gsm.
- The heaviest option, for winter or for brands that trade on weight: 530gsm.
Browse heavyweight custom hoodies from 300 to 530gsm, printed or embroidered from one piece, with free delivery anywhere in Australia and a digital proof before anything is made.
FAQ
Is 400gsm too hot for Australia?
For winter, events and cool evenings it is ideal. For warmer months, 300–350gsm is more comfortable.
What is the heaviest hoodie you sell?
The Ultra Heavyweight Cotton Hoodie at 530gsm.
Do heavier hoodies shrink?
All cotton fleece can shrink slightly on a hot wash. Wash cold and dry flat or on low, and the size chart will hold within about 2 cm.