Whilst the summer months call for lighter, breathable garments, those chillier transitional and winter months beg for something a little heavier. Heavyweight cotton not only promises the perfect blend of quality and warmth, but it’s also an undeniably versatile fabric that can be used to create a variety of must-have wardrobe essentials. We love it, and that’s why we use heavyweight cotton across our AWDis collections.
You might be wondering what heavyweight cotton is, or you could have more specific questions. Does heavyweight cotton shrink? Where can I get high-quality heavyweight cotton? Maybe you want to know the key differences between heavyweight and lightweight garments. Whatever you need, keep reading AWDis’ guide to discover everything you need to know about the heavyweight edit.
What is Heavyweight Cotton Fabric?
Perfect for the colder seasons, heavyweight cotton is a much thicker alternative to regular cotton. Garments made with heavyweight cotton have a much higher GSM (grams per square metre) than the average, typically over 300, due to a thicker weave and higher thread count.
Heavyweight garments are denser and longer-lasting than lightweight varieties, and this durability makes them ideal for workwear and premium merchandise items such as hoodies.
Now that we’ve covered the basic definition, let’s delve into some of the most common questions about heavyweight cotton.
What is a Heavy Cotton Fabric Garment?
The way to identify a standard cotton fabric garment from a heavyweight one is to look at the GSM listed on the product description or label. To highlight the differences, here is a quickfire reference guide:
|
Garment |
Lightweight |
Middleweight |
Heavyweight |
|
T-Shirt/Polo |
100-150 GSM |
160-190 GSM |
200+ GSM |
|
Hoodie/Sweatshirt |
240-260 GSM |
270-320 GSM |
330 GSM |
Does Heavyweight Cotton Shrink?
Yes, heavyweight cotton can shrink. This occurs when the hot water and high heat of the washing machine cause cotton fibres to contract, shrinking the garment. While densely woven cotton is less prone to shrinkage, it can still shrink, so be sure to use cold water for washing and air-dry.
What Are the Benefits of Heavyweight Cotton?
In addition to being less likely to shrink, heavyweight cotton has several key advantages that make it ideal for your customisable apparel. These include:
- On trend: Heavyweight styles are in demand now more than ever, in both retail and the printing industry. Customers are increasingly seeking garments with higher GSMs for a premium feel.
- Durable and long-lasting: With a thicker weave, heavyweight cotton can withstand more wear and tear and typically lasts longer than lighter varieties.
- Warmth: Heavyweight cotton traps heat beneath the garment, making it the perfect fabric for staying warm in colder weather.
- Versatile: From t-shirts to hoodies, this type of cotton can be utilised across a range of products.
- Personalisation: Garments with a thicker weave tend to provide a better surface for customisation. From printing to embroidery, heavyweight cotton makes the perfect canvas.
Finding Heavyweight Garments: Shop the AWDis Heavyweight Range
If you’re looking for comfortable and stylish heavyweight cotton garments, AWDis has designed a huge selection of premium heavyweight garments that make for durable workwear, relaxed-fit sports outfits, and unique streetwear combinations.
Customisation is key here at AWDis, and our durable heavyweight fabric garments are also ideal for large embroidery designs that regular fabric can’t handle. The thicker fabric resists puckering and stretching, ensuring designs are of the highest possible professional quality. Heavier fabrics also better absorb inks and dyes, resulting in vivid and rich prints every time.
Heavyweight T-Shirts
Designed with personalisation in mind, our heavyweight t-shirts make the perfect base for your creations. Garments like the Signature Heavyweight T are soft to the touch and look amazing in contemporary fits. Our heavyweight customisable t-shirts are also available in a massive range of versatile colours, meaning you can customise them to perfection.
Heavyweight Hoodies
With both pullover customisable hoodies and zip-up options available, our heavyweight hoods are absolute essentials over the colder periods. Pieces like our Signature Heavyweight Sweat are perfect for throwing on after sports practice on autumn evenings or layering under jackets during winter.
Heavyweight Shorts
The versatility of heavyweight cotton doesn’t end with tops. Made with quality, heavyweight cotton, our Campus Shorts are undeniably comfy. Soft to the touch and equipped with an adjustable waistband, these heavy cotton shorts are an everyday essential.
The Other Side: What is Lightweight Cotton?
Lightweight cotton is far thinner and softer than heavyweight cotton. These varieties are ideal for creating garments that are soft to the touch, breathable and perfect for the summer weather. If you’re unsure whether to stick with heavyweight cotton or go for something lighter, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Moisture-wicking: Lightweight cotton tends to be better at absorbing moisture, keeping you dry and comfortable.
- Breathability: Going somewhere warm? Lightweight cotton’s lighter construction will keep you cool.
- Movement: If you need to move freely, lightweight cotton offers very little restriction as you move.
Find the Foundation for Your Creation with AWDis
Does a heavyweight cotton garment sound like the perfect base for your designs? Why not print or embroider onto AWDis clothing?
We’re proud to work with a range of trusted suppliers who can provide you with high quantities of our pieces for whatever purpose suits you. Start creating your premium heavyweight garments with the help of AWDis today! Find out where to buy our heavyweight products today.
