Secure payments
£8 + VAT UK delivery · Free from £250 ex VAT

PLAIN HOODIE BUYING GUIDE · 5 minute read

Hoodie GSM and fabric weight explained

GSM is useful for comparing fabric, provided you read it with the rest of the specification. Here is how to use the number without treating it as a quality score.

01 / THE DETAIL

What does GSM mean?

GSM is the mass in grams of one square metre of fabric. A 300 gsm fabric is heavier per area than a 250 gsm fabric. It does not tell you the total garment weight, because garment size, hood construction, pockets and zips also add material.

  • Compare GSM within similar constructions.
  • Check whether the supplier quotes a range or a single weight.
  • Look at the exact colour specification, as blends and weights can differ.

02 / THE DETAIL

Does heavier mean warmer?

A heavier hoodie can feel more substantial, but warmth also depends on the knit, brushed or unbrushed inside, layering, wind and fit. A loose fit can leave more room for layers. A brushed fleece inside often feels different from an unbrushed loopback or French terry inside even when the listed GSM is similar.

03 / THE DETAIL

Weight for everyday wear and projects

For a light layer, compare softer, less bulky options and how they sit under a jacket. For a structured outer layer or a substantial streetwear feel, start with the heavyweight collection and compare actual measurements. If the garment is going to be printed or embroidered, ask the decorator to test the specific fabric and chosen colour; weight alone cannot predict the result.

04 / THE DETAIL

How our heavyweight collection is selected

Our heavyweight collection includes styles whose listed fabric weights are at least 300 gsm. It is a fabric-weight filter, not a promise of warmth, quality or a particular fit. Open each product to check composition, construction, sizing and colour-specific details.

STYLES TO COMPARE

Start with these blanks.

Examples from the current catalogue. Compare their full specifications and selected variants before ordering.

START YOUR NEXT IDEA FOR LESS

Your first blanks.
5% less.

Join the Plain Hoodies newsletter and we’ll email your unique first-order discount code.

First paid order only. 5% off garments; delivery excluded. One offer per email and full postcode. Offer terms.