Be honest. When you pick a T-shirt, the first thing you check is usually the logo on the chest, right? But here’s the twist: your favourite brand name means nothing if the tee feels flimsy, shrinks after one wash, or clings like a bad hug in the summer. That’s where GSM comes in, and it’s way more important than the label you are flexing.
So, what is GSM in T-shirts and why should you care? Let’s break it down without the boring jargon.
What is GSM?
GSM is the acronym for Grams per Square Meter. All it means is the weight and heaviness of the material of your shirt. A higher GSM will be heavier or thicker, and a lower GSM will feel lighter or airier.
Think of it similarly to coffee strength. A light brew versus a double-shot espresso. Different drinks and different vibes, but you know exactly what mood the drinks are crafted for.
Light GSM (120–160): Easy-Breezy Basics
These are your summer saviours. Tees with a lower GSM feel soft, airy, and light on the skin. Perfect for hot days, layering under jackets, or when you want a relaxed, easygoing fit.
But the catch? They are not always durable. Wash them a few times, and they might start feeling like tissue paper. Great for budget buys, not always great for long-term wear.
Medium GSM (160–200): Everyday Comfort Zone
This is the perfect choice for everyday wear. Not too thin, not too heavy, just balanced. A medium GSM tee feels breathable but still holds its shape better than the lightweight ones.
It is the type of T-shirt you throw on for a coffee run, a class, or casual Fridays at work. Think of it as the “all-rounder” of your wardrobe.
Heavy GSM (200–260+): Streetwear and Statement Fits
This is the most premium kind. Tees in this range are thicker, sturdier, and scream quality. The fabric hangs better, the fit looks sharper, and they last through endless washes. This is the range most oversized streetwear brands (yes, like Closet Apparel) swear by.
A 240 GSM tee feels structured and solid without being stiff. Perfect for when you want your outfit to look intentional and not just “I grabbed the first thing in my closet.”
Why GSM Beats the Logo Game
Here is the thing: a tee with great GSM feels premium even if it has no flashy brand name. On the other hand, a big-name logo slapped on a flimsy, low-GSM tee will disappoint you faster than a rain delay at the Monaco Grand Prix.
Comfort. Durability. Style. Those are the things you actually notice when wearing a T-shirt, not just the label.
Closet Check: What Should You Choose?
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For workouts or summer heat, go for lighter GSM keeps it breezy.
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For everyday wear, medium GSM hits the balance.
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For oversized fits, streetwear, or statement outfits, heavy GSM (such as 240 GSM) provides the best drape and durability.
The Takeaway
Next time someone asks, “What is GSM in T-shirts?” you will know it is the real MVP of fabric quality. GSM decides how your tee feels, how long it lasts, and how it looks on you. The brand name might get you likes, but GSM is what makes you actually want to wear it again and again.
And if you are ready to try heavyweight comfort that looks as good as it feels, Closet Apparel has already done the homework for you. Every oversized tee is crafted in 240 GSM cotton, so you can stop worrying about shrinkage, shape, or comfort and just focus on looking good.