Guide
What is a heavyweight t-shirt?
The short version: a heavyweight tee uses denser fabric — measured in GSM — so it's opaque, holds its shape, and wears in rather than out. Here's how the weights compare and what to look for.
GSM, explained
GSM stands for grams per square metre— literally how much a square metre of the fabric weighs. It’s the simplest, most honest measure of how substantial a t-shirt feels. The higher the GSM, the thicker and denser the cloth; the lower the GSM, the lighter and more breathable.
How t-shirt weights compare
| Weight | GSM | How it feels |
|---|---|---|
| Lightweight | 130–150gsm | Thin, breathable, can be slightly sheer. Summer layering. |
| Standard | 150–180gsm | The everyday tee weight. Balanced, but softens and thins over time. |
| Heavyweight | 185–250gsm | Dense, opaque, structured. Holds its shape and wears in, not out. |
| Super heavyweight | 250gsm+ | Substantial, almost outerwear-like. Boxy drape, premium hand. |
Why we cut ours at 240gsm
Our signature tee is 240gsm combed organic cotton, cut boxy and garment-washed so it arrives already worn-in. That weight is the sweet spot — heavy enough to be opaque and keep its shape wash after wash, without crossing into stiff. The hoodie goes further still: 450gsm brushed-back loopback cotton, with a heavy drape and a double-layer hood.
Questions
- What is a heavyweight t-shirt?
- A heavyweight t-shirt is one made from a denser, thicker fabric than a standard tee. Fabric weight is measured in GSM — grams per square metre. Standard tees sit around 150–180gsm; a t-shirt is generally considered heavyweight from roughly 185gsm upward. The extra density makes it opaque, more durable, and better at holding its shape.
- What GSM is a heavyweight t-shirt?
- Heavyweight t-shirts typically run from about 185gsm to 250gsm, with super-heavyweight starting above 250gsm. For comparison, a standard tee is around 150–180gsm and a lightweight tee is 130–150gsm. The Spritz Club tee is 240gsm combed organic cotton.
- Is a heavyweight t-shirt better?
- For longevity and how it sits, usually yes. Heavier fabric resists losing its shape, is rarely see-through, and develops a worn-in character instead of wearing thin. The trade-off is breathability — a heavyweight tee is warmer than a thin summer tee, which is exactly why people wear it as a standalone piece.
- What is a boxy fit?
- A boxy fit is cut wider and shorter through the body, so it falls straight rather than tapering. It sits cleanly without clinging and pairs well with heavyweight fabric. If you prefer a classic, closer fit, size down — our tee is cut boxy and unisex.