What Does GSM Mean in Clothing?
What Does GSM Mean in Clothing?
In the world of streetwear fashion, where comfort, structure, and style collide, choosing the right fabric is more than a technical step—it's a strategic move that defines your brand's quality and customer experience. One of the most critical yet often misunderstood terms in fabric selection is GSM, or Grams per Square Meter.
At Lodyway, where we specialize in high-quality streetwear essentials like hoodies, T-shirts, jackets, and denim, we often guide our global brand clients through GSM decisions that impact everything from drape to durability. But what exactly is GSM? Why does it matter? And how do you choose the right GSM for your custom streetwear line?
What Is GSM in Fabric? How Is It Measured?
GSM stands for "Grams per Square Meter," which indicates the weight of fabric. It tells you how many grams a square meter of the material weighs. This is a key metric used by fabric manufacturers and clothing brands to describe the thickness and density of a textile.
How it is measured: Cut a 10cm x 10cm square of fabric (0.01 square meters), weigh it in grams, and multiply by 100 to get the GSM.
Why GSM Matters?
GSM directly affects the look, feel, performance, and cost of a garment. For streetwear clothing like hoodies, T-shirts, and denim, the right GSM can mean the difference between a premium product and something that feels flimsy.
High GSM Fabrics
Heavier, thicker, warmer, and more durable
Used in hoodies, sweatshirts, heavy jackets
Low GSM Fabrics
Lightweight, breathable, and soft
Used in summer T-shirts, thin trousers
Streetwear often walks the line between comfort and structure. A hoodie around 320-360 GSM feels luxe and structured. A T-shirt around 180-200 GSM has body without being heavy.
What GSM Is Ideal for Different Clothing Types?
Choosing the right GSM depends on the product's intended use, target customer, and climate. Here's a general guide:
| Clothing Type | Ideal GSM Range |
| T-shirts | 160–200 GSM |
| Hoodies & Sweatshirts | 300–400 GSM |
Joggers & Sweatpants | 240–320 GSM |
Jackets | 300–450 GSM |
| Denim Jeans | 340–500 GSM |
Shorts | 180–280 GSM |
These are not fixed rules, but popular GSM preferences across streetwear markets like the U.S., U.K., and Australia.
GSM vs. Fabric Quality: What's the Relationship?
It's a common myth that higher GSM means better quality. While heavier fabrics can feel more premium, quality also depends on:
1、Fiber type : Cotton, polyester, blended, recycled
2、Yarn quality: Combed vs. carded yarn
3、Knitting or weaving structure: Tightness, loop shape
4、Finishing treatments: Brushing, silicone wash, enzyme wash
At Lodyway, we use GSM as one of many tools to determine the best fabric for our customers. For example, we've helped clients in the U.K. select 280 GSM fleece with enzyme wash for their winter hoodie line—achieving softness and weight without bulk.
FAQ About“GSM”
Q1:Is higher GSM always better?
A：Not necessarily. Higher GSM means thicker/heavier, but quality also depends on fiber type, weave, and finish.
Q2:Can a low GSM fabric still be durable?
A：Yes—durability also depends on fiber quality and weave. Some synthetics are light yet strong.
Q3:Where can I find GSM information on clothing?
A：Check product labels, descriptions, or ask suppliers directly.
Q4:How accurate is GSM measurement from a swatch?
A:Usually within ±10–15% variance due to lot differences.
Q5:Can fabrics with the same GSM feel different?
A:Yes—due to fiber type, weave density, finishing, and yarn quality .
Q6:Does GSM influence cost?
A:Yes—higher GSM uses more material, thus increasing cost.
Q7:Do very low GSM fabrics need lining?
A:Yes—fabrics below ~50 GSM (e.g., chiffon, voile) are transparent/flimsy and often need lining.、
Conclusion: Use GSM to Empower Your Streetwear Line
For mature clothing brands looking to produce custom streetwear with a factory like Lodyway, understanding GSM gives you greater control over style, function, and customer experience.
At Lodyway, we help you not only choose the right GSM but also provide matching design support, pattern making, and quick bulk production thanks to our large in-house factory, advanced hanging production lines, and dedicated streetwear design team.
Jersey factory | Sports number 90 print graphic tee | Fashion-forward football jersey | Oversize fit
Lodyway is a professional custom street fashion clothing factory, specializing in printed, embroidery, and washed crafts.
Men oversize football jersey | Fashion-forward | Sport number print tee | Polyester | Tshirt factory
Lodyway is a professional custom street fashion clothing factory, specializing in printed, embroidery, and washed crafts.
Lodyway is a professional custom street fashion clothing factory, specializing in printed, embroidery, and washed crafts.
Lodyway is a professional custom street fashion clothing factory, specializing in printed, embroidery, and washed crafts.
