How to Choose the Right T-shirt

There are tons of different brands, qualities and styles of t-shirts. Here’s a quick overview to help you pick the best one:

100% Cotton

• Your basic, least expensive option is 5.3 oz but a 6.1oz option is also available. Use the heavier weight for sports teams or if the end customer needs them to be a bit more durable.
• 100% cotton will shrink a but, especially if they’re dried on high heat
• We usually recommend Gildan shirts but other brands such as Fruit of the Loom, Hanes, Jerzees and Anvil are equally comparable. Usually, we will recommend whatever shirt is least expensive at the time of order.

100% Ringspun Cotton

• If you’re looking for a softer, more “fashionable” fit for your t-shirt, this is definitely the way to go.
• These shirts can be printed using discharge inks, which gives the imprint a lighter and softer feel
• If price is your number one concern, we usually recommend Tultex. If you can spring for a bit more, our next option is Next Level. If you’re looking for the best styling and quality available, Alternative Apparel and Bella (for ladies) are our top picks.

50/50 Poly/Cotton Blend

• Poly cotton shirts are great and usually even softer than the 100% ringspun cotton tees.
• They don’t shrink as much and colors also don’t fade as much.
• Gildan makes a more cost effective option, although it’s not nearly as soft as the Next Level and Alternative Apparel options

Triblend

• If you’re looking for that shirt you could die in, triblend is definitely the way to go.
• Made up of 50% cotton, 25% polyester and 25% rayon, making them one of the softest shirts you’ll ever feel.
• Due to their material composition, they always come in heather (i.e. that gym shirt look) and can’t be discharged but you can use water-based ink for that soft feel.
• The most expensive of the options listed but they will be your favorite shirt.
• Next Level, Bella and Alternative Apparel offer great options.

We hope this answers many of your questions. Click HERE to check out our favorite mens tees, and HERE to see options for ladies.