If you've ever bought a t-shirt online and been disappointed when it arrived feeling thin and papery, you've experienced the difference GSM makes.
WHAT IS GSM?
GSM stands for Grams Per Square Metre — it's how fabric weight is measured. The higher the GSM, the heavier, thicker, and (generally) more durable the fabric.
T-SHIRT GSM BREAKDOWN
• 120–150 GSM: Very lightweight. Used in budget tees and promotional shirts. Thin, see-through, doesn't last.
• 160–180 GSM: Standard retail weight. Most fast fashion t-shirts fall here. Acceptable but not premium.
• 200–220 GSM: Mid-weight. Noticeably better quality. Good for everyday wear.
• 240 GSM and above: Premium heavyweight. Structured, substantial, holds shape after washing. This is where Soethical sits.
WHY WE CHOSE 240 GSM
When we were building Soethical, we tested multiple fabrics. The difference between 180 GSM and 240 GSM is immediately obvious when you hold both. The 240 GSM drapes better, feels more expensive, and — importantly — survives washing without thinning out or losing shape.
Most streetwear brands charge premium prices for 160–180 GSM fabric. We charge fair prices for 240 GSM. That's the commitment.
DOES HIGHER GSM MEAN LESS BREATHABLE?
Not necessarily. Our 240 GSM is 100% pure cotton — it breathes well in normal conditions. You'll notice the weight, not discomfort. In Indian summers, we'd recommend going one size up for maximum air circulation.
THE BOTTOM LINE
If you care about quality — not just how a tee looks on day one, but how it looks after 50 washes — GSM is the number to check. 240 is the standard we set. We're not going below it.
Shop our current collection at soethical.com