Garment weight is measured in ounces per square yard (oz/yd²). This number tells you exactly how heavy or light the fabric is, and it directly affects how the shirt feels, drapes, and prints.

Lightweight (3.5–4.5 oz): Thin, breathable, great for summer events and athletic wear. Prints well but shows through: dark shirts and thick ink coverage aren't ideal at this weight.

Midweight (5.0–5.5 oz): The most popular range for custom apparel. Gildan 5000 (5.3 oz) is the industry workhorse for a reason: it's durable, prints cleanly, and holds its shape after repeated washing.

Heavyweight (6.0 oz+): Premium feel, substantial body. These are the shirts people keep for years. Slightly higher cost, but the perceived quality is dramatically better. Bella+Canvas 3001 (4.2 oz) is lightweight but premium due to ring-spun combed cotton. Weight isn't the only indicator of quality.

For organizational programs, midweight is almost always the right call. Lightweight for summer events, heavyweight for branded staff gear you want to last.