GSM is weight per square metre
GSM describes fabric mass, not automatic quality. A compact 240 GSM jersey can feel cleaner and recover better than a loosely knitted 300 GSM cloth.
Compare weight alongside fibre length, yarn twist, knit density and finishing. Those choices determine whether the garment remains composed after washing.
Useful starting ranges
Performance tops often sit around 180–250 GSM, premium polos around 200–240 GSM and substantial hoodies around 400–500 GSM. Climate, activity and silhouette should decide the final specification.
Ask for test results
A manufacturing pack should define shrinkage, pilling, wash colourfastness, seam strength, stretch recovery and shade tolerance. Approval should happen on the actual fabric, lab dip and pre-production garment—not a digital colour alone.