In the past few years more options for better quality t-shirt material have become available. After we started showing our clients some of the new choices, more and more are going with something besides the standard 100% cotton t-shirt.
Here’s a rundown of some of the more popular material styles, from lowest to highest quality:
100% Cotton T-shirt – This is what I’d refer to as your “standard” t-shirt. The best known names are Gildan and Hanes, with the former being more popular in the promotional product industry as it is basically same quality as the Hanes, but less expensive. These general come in 3 weight ranges – 6.1 oz, 5.4 oz. and 4.5 oz. We sell more of the 5.4 oz. than anything else. Please note that safety color t-shirts and heather t-shirts, though they may be shown in same categories as cotton, always contain at least 10% polyester so they will hold the color better.
50/50 T-shirt – As the name implies, these are 50% cotton and 50% polyester. They used to be cheaper than the 100% cotton but are really close in price now. We actually do not sell many of these.
Performance T-shirts – These wick moisture and are good for exercising and worn by workers particularly if they work outside or in non-air-conditioned buildings. They can range from a 50/50 Cotton/Polyester blend to 100% polyester. Some have a mesh appearance to them as well.
Ringspun Cotton T-shirts – Ringspun cotton goes through a spinning process that removes some of the impurities, thus it has a much smoother and softer feel. Common brand names of these are American Apparel, Bella Canvas, and NextLevel; among others. Many of these t-shirts also have what I refer to as a “youth” or “athletic” cut. They tend to run a little smaller per size. Most of them are in the 4.2-4.5 oz. weight range also. These are very popular right now.
Triblend T-shirts – Typically a blend of polyester, cotton and rayon. These are the softest. They also tend to not hold heat between your body and the shirt, so are good for the gym and such. They also generally feature more of the heather colors that are very popular, and attractive, now. They are great for wearing anytime though.
If you would like more information on the cost difference between the different type of materials, please get in touch with me – kevin@promohounds.com.