So here we are, ready to pick your shirt out. But wait what brand, what style, what weight, cotton or poly. Well we have listed some various different shirt attributes below and split them out to hopefully make sense of it all. If this still seems like reading Greek, give us a call at 406-647-3435 or email us at customerservice@mosaicthreads.com.

2000 – Gildan 6.1 ounce Basic tee shirt

5000 – Gildan 5.1 ounce Basic tee shirt

8000 – Gildan 5 ounce 50% Cotton / 50% Poly

5280 – Hanes 5.2 ounce, 100% ComfortSoft® cotton

PC61 – Port and Company 6.1-ounce, 100% soft spun cotton

3600 – Next Level Apparel 4.3 ounce 100% cotton tee

6210 – Next Level Apparel 4.3 ounce 60% cotton / 40% poly

980 – Anvil 4.5-ounce, 100% ring spun combed cotton

DM108 – District Made 4.3-ounce, 50/50 ring spun combed cotton/poly

DT104 – District Made 4.3-ounce, 100% ring spun combed cotton

3001C – Canvas 4.2 oz., 100% combed and ringspun cotton

2001 – American Apparel 4.3 oz., 100% ringspun combed cotton fine jersey

BB401 – American Apparel 3.7 oz., 50% combed cotton, 50% polyester

TR401 – American Apparel 3.7 oz., 50% polyester, 25% ringspun cotton, 25% rayon

AA1070 – Alternative 3.7 oz. Basic Crew 30’s 100% cotton jersey

AA1973 – Alternative 4.4 oz. Eco Jersey 50% polyester (6.25% recycled), 38% cotton (6.25% organic), 12% rayon

Ringspun and Regular Cotton

Creating regular cotton and ring-spun cotton are different. Regular cotton is made from soft vegetable fibers that are twisted together to make yarn, which is then woven to make material. Most of the standard t-shirts, like Gildan, Hanes, Fruit of the Loom, and other similar brands, provide regular cotton t-shirts. Regular cotton is less expensive to make, which means it is more widely used.

Ring-spun cotton, on the other hand, is different. Ring-spun yarn is made by twisting and thinning the cotton strands to make a very fine, strong, soft rope of cotton fibers. Ring-spun cotton t-shirts are more durable and last longer than regular 100% cotton tees, but will also be more expensive.

It’s hard to say which is better. Ringspun is softer and more durable while its regular counterpart is a little more stiff and thicker feeling. Regular cotton tees are a durable, cheaper option that is used widely in many different occupations and events.

So which fabric is right for you?

Cotton t-shirt

A natural, softer feel that is breathable
Light and cool(especially the lighter versions)
Hypoallergenic- doesn’t cause allergies or skin irritation

Cons:
More prone to shrinkage and wrinkles over time if not properly maintained

Pros:
Warmer climates
Lower impact and casual activities
Uniforms and business wear
Easy, casual, and trendy wear indoors and outdoors
Sensitive skin

Polyester

Strong, durable, and long-lasting
Easily keeps its shape so it’s more resistant to shrinking, stretching, wrinkles, and tears
Often wicks away moisture for a fresher feel in high impact environments
Keeps body warm in cooler climates
May not be the best for certain sensitive skin

Cons:
Can hold odors in if not properly maintained

Pros:
Cold environments
High stress activities
Recreational outdoor fun
Moisture management
Heavy usage

50/50 or 60/40  Polyester Cotton Blends

Versatile and durable
Maintains shape and colors longer
Softer and lighter feel
Less susceptible to excessive shrinking, pilling, wrinkles, and static

Cons:
Not as breathable as 100% cotton

Pros:
Low to medium impact activities
Jersey or sporty look
Polos and athletic wear
Casual settings
Heavy usage