Gildan T-Shirts Explained – What’s the Difference?

T-shirts are a lot like gas at the pump. Most people think they’re all the same, but there are different types made for different needs. With Gildan shirts, it’s not about one being better than another — it’s about finding the right fit, fabric, and feel for what you’re doing. 
So how do you choose the right one? If you're comparing more than just fabric and fit, our guide on how to choose the best custom t-shirts walks through key factors like use case, durability, and overall value.

Here’s a breakdown of the most popular Gildan t-shirts we carry:

Gildan 3000 Value Tee

• Fabric: Lightweight cotton tee
• Fit: Standard unisex fit
• Best for: Large events, giveaways, budget-conscious orders
• Why choose it: One of Gildan’s most affordable lightweight t-shirts, designed for customers focused primarily on value and price.

FTW Heavyweight White Tee

• Fabric: Heavy cotton white t-shirt
• Print: Front print only
• Best for: Giveaways, events, large groups, tight budgets
• Why choose it: Designed for customers who want the lowest possible price on a dependable heavyweight white tee

Gildan 5000 Heavy Cotton Tee

• Fabric: 5.3 oz, 100% cotton
• Fit: Unisex (S–5X), Ladies Missy Fit (relaxed)
• Colors: ~70
• Best for: Budget-conscious buyers, general use
• Why choose it: A true workhorse—affordable, sturdy, and our #1 seller

Gildan 64000 Softstyle Tee

• Fabric: 4.5 oz, ringspun cotton (soft & lightweight)
• Fit: Unisex (XS–4X), Ladies Junior Fit (more fitted)
• Colors: ~57
• Best for: Trend-conscious teams, fashion-forward events
• Why choose it: Less boxy, super soft, youth-friendly vibe

Gildan 64000CVC Softstyle CVC Tee

• Fabric: Cotton/poly blend
• Fit: Similar modern Softstyle fit
• Best for: Customers who want extra softness and smoother printing
• Why choose it: The blend makes the shirt feel softer, lighter, and more retail-inspired than standard cotton tees

CVC blends are popular because they combine softness with better durability and a smoother feel.

Gildan 8000 DryBlend Tee

• Fabric: 5.3 oz, 50/50 cotton-poly
• Fit: Unisex (S–5X), No ladies cut
• Colors: ~40
• Best for: Activewear, uniforms, team shirts
• Why choose it: Moisture-wicking blend stays drier in heat or activity

  View the Gildan 8000

Gildan 2000 Ultra Cotton Tee

• Fabric: 6.1 oz, 100% cotton (thicker than 5000)
• Fit: Unisex (S–5X), Ladies generous fit available
• Colors: ~60
• Best for: People who like a durable, heavyweight shirt
• Why choose it: Feels about 10% heavier than the 5000

  View the Gildan 2000

A Quick Note on Fabric Blends:

Even if a shirt is listed as “100% cotton,” heathers, neons, and safety colors are always a cotton/poly blend. That’s how the dyeing process works for those colors—it’s normal and intentional.

In Summary: