What GSM actually means
GSM stands for grams per square metre. It measures how much the fabric weighs, which is a good shortcut for how thick, opaque, and structured a shirt feels. A lower GSM is lighter and airier. A higher GSM is heavier and more substantial. Neither is better on its own. The right choice depends on how you want the shirt to feel and look.
BISHH t-shirt weights, from light to heavy
We group our tees into clear weight tiers so you can choose by feel rather than guesswork.
- Basic 160 gsm: light and breezy, the coolest option for hot afternoons and everyday wear.
- Elevate 190 gsm: a balanced mid weight that still breathes well while feeling a little more premium.
- Ultimate 220 gsm: a thicker, more structured tee with a solid, quality hand feel.
- Oversized 280 gsm: heavyweight and street ready, built to hold an oversized drape.
- Hyblend: a cotton blend option that balances softness, durability, and easy care.
Choosing for Malaysia's climate
If you will wear the shirt outdoors or in our typical heat, a lighter 160 to 190 gsm tee keeps you cooler and dries faster. If you want a premium, boxy, or oversized look and you spend most of the day in air conditioning, a heavier 220 to 280 gsm tee feels great and photographs well. For uniforms and events where people move around all day, many customers land on the 190 gsm middle ground for all day comfort.
Does GSM affect the print?
The print quality itself stays sharp across all our weights, because Premium HD Heatpress printing sits on top of the fabric. Heavier fabrics simply give the design a flatter, more stable surface. If your artwork is bold and colourful, it will look excellent on any of our tiers.