Heavyweight Fabric

Thick, durable material used for apparel requiring added warmth or longevity, ideal for hoodies and jackets.
The higher GSM indicates a denser, thicker construction. This results in garments that feel more substantial, structured, and durable compared to lightweight alternatives.
In the Australian custom apparel market, heavyweight fabric is commonly used for premium retail merchandise, workwear, winter uniforms, and high-end promotional clothing where durability and structure are priorities.

Understanding Fabric Weight (GSM)

What GSM Means

GSM stands for grams per square metre and measures the weight of the fabric. The higher the GSM, the heavier and thicker the material.

As a general guide:

120–180 GSM is considered lightweight
180–220 GSM is midweight
220 GSM and above is heavyweight

For hoodies and fleece garments, heavyweight typically begins around 320 GSM and can exceed 400 GSM.

Why Fabric Weight Matters

Fabric weight influences:

Durability
Structure and drape
Warmth and insulation
Print performance
Overall garment feel

Choosing the right weight depends on the intended use of the garment.

Key Features of Heavyweight Fabric

Increased Durability

Heavier fabrics are more resistant to wear and tear. This makes them ideal for Australian trades, logistics teams, and outdoor staff uniforms where garments are exposed to demanding conditions.

Structured Appearance

Heavyweight garments hold their shape better. T-shirts appear more structured, while hoodies maintain a premium silhouette.

Enhanced Warmth

Thicker materials provide additional insulation, making them suitable for cooler climates and winter uniforms in southern Australia.

Premium Feel

Heavier garments often feel more substantial and high-quality, which is particularly important for retail merchandise and branded apparel.

Benefits for Custom Garment Printing

Heavyweight fabric offers several advantages during the printing process.

The thicker surface provides stability during screen printing, DTG, or DTF application. This reduces the risk of print distortion and improves overall finish quality.

Because the fabric is denser, prints often appear more vibrant and solid. Screen printing on heavyweight cotton, for example, produces strong opacity and clean edges.

Heavyweight garments also tend to support specialty techniques such as high density printing or embroidery more effectively due to their structural support.

Common Applications in Australia

Heavyweight fabric is widely used across industries:

Trade and construction uniforms
Warehouse and logistics teams
Corporate winter apparel
Streetwear and retail brands
Premium promotional hoodies
Event merchandise designed for resale

For fashion-focused brands, oversized heavyweight T-shirts have become particularly popular in streetwear markets.

For businesses issuing winter uniforms, heavyweight fleece jumpers and half-zips provide warmth and durability without compromising branding quality.

Practical Considerations

Climate and Season

Australia’s varied climate means heavyweight garments are most suitable for autumn and winter or for cooler regions.

Printing Method Compatibility

Heavyweight cotton works well with screen printing and DTG. Polyester-heavy fleece may require temperature control during heat application to prevent shine or scorching.

Cost and Freight

Heavier garments may cost more per unit and increase freight weight. However, the improved durability often offsets replacement costs over time.

Comfort Balance

While durable, heavyweight garments may feel warmer in high-heat environments. Matching garment weight to working conditions is essential.