Gildan Softstyle T-shirts, Sweatshirts and Hoodies

Understanding the distinction between Gildan's traditional Heavy Cotton line and their Softstyle collection represents one of the most important decisions you'll make when selecting blank apparel for custom printing projects. These two product families come from the same trusted manufacturer, yet they serve remarkably different purposes and appeal to distinct customer segments. By grasping these fundamental differences, you can align your garment selection with your brand vision and customer expectations in ways that directly impact both satisfaction and profitability.

The Softstyle collection emerged as Gildan's response to evolving market demands for more fashion-forward, retail-ready blanks that maintain affordability. The defining characteristic lies in the manufacturing process: Softstyle garments use ring-spun cotton, where fibers are twisted and softened to create a noticeably smoother texture compared to standard cotton. When you physically compare a Softstyle shirt to a classic Heavy Cotton, the difference in hand feel becomes immediately apparent. The Softstyle fabric drapes more naturally and feels closer to what you'd encounter in traditional retail stores rather than basic promotional items.

Weight represents another crucial differentiator. Softstyle garments typically weigh around 4.5 ounces compared to the 5.3-ounce Heavy Cotton construction. This lighter weight makes Softstyle ideal for warmer climates, layering applications, or customers who prefer less bulky garments. The modern, slimmer silhouette also resonates with younger demographics seeking fitted styles rather than the classic boxy cuts that characterized promotional apparel for decades.

Sizing considerations deserve special attention with Softstyle products. The contemporary fitted silhouette means these garments often run smaller than traditional Gildan offerings. Many customers discover that sizing up one size provides the comfortable, relaxed fit they expect. This becomes particularly important when the garments will undergo machine drying, which can cause additional shrinkage beyond the pre-shrinking treatment. Women seeking unisex Softstyle shirts typically find their regular size delivers a fitted look, while sizing down creates an even more tailored appearance. Men generally succeed with their standard size, though those preferring roomier fits appreciate going up one size.

Several Softstyle products have established themselves as industry workhorses. The Gildan 64000 Adult Softstyle T-Shirt serves as the flagship product, excelling in retail brands, band merchandise, and custom apparel businesses targeting style-conscious consumers. For sweatshirts, the SF500 Softstyle Fleece Hooded Sweatshirt has captured significant market share among streetwear brands and small businesses. Its 8.4-ounce fleece construction combines an 80/20 cotton-polyester blend that delivers exceptional softness while maintaining warmth.

The SF000 Softstyle Fleece Crewneck Sweatshirt offers the same comfortable fleece interior in a classic silhouette, proving particularly popular for team uniforms and corporate casual wear.  Additional popular styles include the SF600 for those seeking alternative fleece options and the SF100 for specialized applications requiring the Softstyle treatment in different garment styles.

Your choice between Normal Gildan and Softstyle ultimately depends on your specific application and target demographic. Traditional Heavy Cotton makes perfect sense for promotional items at outdoor events, work uniforms, or situations prioritizing durability over fashion. However, when building retail brands, creating artist merchandise, or targeting customers who value comfort and contemporary aesthetics, Softstyle delivers exceptional value. The modest price increase of typically one to two dollars per garment wholesale often translates into significantly higher perceived value, justifying better retail pricing and improved profit margins while creating that premium impression that distinguishes your brand in competitive markets.

Softstyle garments undergo pre-shrinking treatment and typically experience minimal shrinkage of around two to three percent when properly cared for. Washing in cold water and tumble drying on low heat, or better yet, air drying, will help maintain the original fit. Solid colors made from 100% ring-spun cotton may shrink slightly more than heathered styles that contain polyester blends.

Can I use the same printing techniques on Softstyle as I do on regular Gildan?

Absolutely. Softstyle blanks work beautifully with all standard decoration methods including screen printing, Direct-to-Film transfers, heat transfer vinyl, and embroidery. The smoother surface of ring-spun cotton actually provides excellent print quality and color vibrancy, often producing sharper results than standard cotton.

The price difference reflects the upgraded fabric construction. Softstyle fleece uses ring-spun cotton blends with brushed interiors, creating a noticeably softer and more comfortable garment. While the price increase is modest, the enhanced quality and retail appeal often justify the investment for brands focused on customer satisfaction.

While Softstyle fleece provides good warmth, it's designed more for mild to moderate cold conditions rather than extreme winter weather. The 8.4-ounce fleece construction offers comfortable insulation for typical fall and spring temperatures, indoor wear, or layering situations.