What is GSM in fabric?
When you're shopping for clothes, especially online, you might have come across the term 'GSM.' GSM is an abbreviation for 'grams per square meter' and is used as a standard measurement to define the weight and thickness of a fabric. GSM offers a crucial insight into how heavy or light, thin or thick, the fabric used in your garments is.
Why GSM matters in clothing
GSM plays a significant role in determining the quality, durability, and utility of a piece of clothing. A higher GSM typically signifies a denser fabric, which may correlate with increased durability, warmth, and weight. In contrast, a lower GSM indicates a lighter, more breathable fabric that is usually more suited to warm climates or summer wear.
GSM fabric weight chart: Breaking down GSM
To help you understand the concept better, here's a simple GSM fabric weight chart. It correlates GSM values with fabric weights and their typical clothing uses:
|
60-100 GSM |
This is the range for lightweight fabrics. Think summer t-shirts, lightweight underwear, and bed linens. |
|
101-150 GSM |
Still light in weight but a bit denser. Perfect for regular t-shirts and light summer clothing. |
|
151-200 GSM |
A mid-weight range, ideal for autumn or spring wear, such as long-sleeved shirts and regular dresses. |
|
201-300 GSM |
This range is suitable for most sweatshirts and ideal for clothing that provides a bit of warmth, like a light to mid-weight hoodie. |
|
301-400 GSM |
In this range, you're looking at the weights of a good-quality, heavyweight hoodie or a light jacket. |
|
400+ GSM |
Anything over 400 GSM is considered heavy and is usually reserved for the heaviest outerwear like thick hoodies, sweatshirts, jackets, or blankets. |
This chart provides a general understanding, but remember, the GSM is just one factor that contributes to the overall feel, comfort, and durability of your clothing. Other factors, like the type of fabric (cotton, polyester, etc.), the weave, and the quality of the fiber, can also significantly impact the final product.
Heavyweight sweatshirts and their GSM
If you're seeking the warmth and durability of a heavyweight sweatshirt, you should typically look for garments with a GSM over 300. Heavyweight sweatshirts, with their increased fabric density, offer optimal warmth and are perfect for colder climates or winter seasons.
For example, at Setcomforts, our organic cotton sweatshirts are made with a hefty 400 GSM fabric. This GSM level is intentionally chosen to provide the ultimate balance of warmth and durability. With our sweatshirts, you can enjoy the cozy comfort of a heavyweight hoodie that can withstand the test of time and multiple washes without losing its shape or quality.
In general, heavyweight sweatshirts with a GSM of 400 or above are the epitome of comfort and warmth. They can often stand up to many years of wear and washes without losing their shape or comfort. The high GSM ensures the material's thickness and durability, making them a reliable choice for colder weather. So next time you're shopping for a hoodie, remember to check the GSM – it's a small detail that makes a big difference.
Other sweatshirt weights and their GSM
The GSM of a sweatshirt can vary based on its intended use and the desired warmth. Here's a general breakdown:
- Light sweatshirts: Often fall within the 200-300 GSM range, suitable for milder climates or indoor wear.
- Mid-weight sweatshirts: Usually have a GSM between 300-350, providing a balance between warmth and breathability.
- Heavyweight sweatshirts: Typically possess a GSM over 350, offering maximum warmth and durability for colder climates.
In conclusion
Understanding GSM in clothing can help you make more informed decisions about your garment purchases, ensuring that you choose items that best suit your needs and preferences. Whether you're in the market for a lightweight t-shirt for summer, a mid-weight sweatshirt for spring, or a heavyweight hoodie for winter, knowing the GSM can guide your selection process and ensure that you get the most out of your clothing.
At Setcomforts, we understand the importance of GSM in determining the weight, thickness, and ultimately, the comfort and durability of our clothing. That's why we always strive to provide our customers with all the necessary information about our products, including their GSM, to help you make the best choice. Explore our organic cotton loungewear collection today and experience the Setcomforts difference!
