Gildan Size Chart & Complete Shirt Guide: Every Style, Fit, and DTF Recommendation

Gildan is the most widely used blank apparel brand in the custom printing industry. From t-shirts and hoodies to sweatshirts and tanks, Gildan produces garments in over 100 styles, 140+ colors, and sizes ranging from Toddler to Adult 5XL. Their price points make them the default choice for DTF printers, screen printers, and heat transfer businesses worldwide. Gildan sells four times as many blank t-shirts as Hanes and Fruit of the Loom combined.

This comprehensive guide covers Gildan size charts for every popular style, detailed descriptions of each product line, color availability, fabric weight explanations, and which Gildan shirts work best with DTF transfers. We also link to wholesale suppliers where you can purchase each style at bulk pricing.

Where to buy Gildan blanks wholesale: SanMar, S&S Activewear, and JiffyShirts are the three most popular wholesale distributors for Gildan apparel. SanMar and S&S Activewear cater to decorators and resellers with bulk pricing, while JiffyShirts offers fast 1–2 day shipping with free shipping at $59 and bulk discounts at $99.

---

Gildan Style Number System Explained

Before diving into the catalog, it helps to understand Gildan's dual numbering system. Gildan uses both a numeric style number and a "G" prefix shorthand. They refer to the same product:

Some distributors like SanMar use the numeric format (5000), while others like S&S Activewear use the G-prefix (G500). They are identical products.

---

Gildan T-Shirt Styles (Adult)

Gildan 5000 (G500) — Heavy Cotton T-Shirt (5.3 oz)

The Gildan 5000 is the best-selling blank t-shirt in the world and the industry standard for custom printing. Made from 100% preshrunk U.S. cotton, it delivers a classic, structured fit with a seamless double-needle collar. The 5.3 oz midweight fabric provides excellent press stability for DTF transfers without feeling heavy.

Fabric: 100% cotton (preshrunk). Safety colors and some heathers are 50/50 cotton/poly. Fit: Classic, relaxed American fit. Slightly boxy through the body. Sizes: S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL, 4XL, 5XL Colors: 70+ colors including White, Black, Sport Grey, Navy, Royal, Red, Dark Heather, Charcoal, Forest Green, Maroon, Gold, Safety Green, Safety Orange, and dozens of fashion shades. Tag: Tear-away neck tag (great for custom DTF relabeling). DTF Rating: Excellent — the #1 recommended blank for DTF transfers. Where to buy: SanMar | S&S Activewear | JiffyShirts

For a detailed breakdown of this style including DTF tips and color swatches, see our Gildan 5000 (G500) Complete Style Guide.

---

Gildan 64000 (G640) — Softstyle T-Shirt (4.5 oz)

The Gildan 64000 is Gildan's answer to the growing demand for softer, more fitted blank apparel. Constructed from 100% ring-spun cotton, the G640 offers a noticeably superior hand feel compared to standard cotton tees. The lighter 4.5 oz fabric drapes closer to the body with a semi-fitted silhouette, making it popular for retail-quality custom apparel and direct-to-consumer brands.

Fabric: 100% ring-spun cotton. Heather colors are 65/35 polyester/viscose or cotton/poly blends. Fit: Semi-fitted, modern cut. Slimmer than the G500 through the chest and waist. Sizes: S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL Colors: 60+ colors including White, Black, Dark Heather, Navy, Charcoal, RS Sport Grey, Heather Military Green, Heather Sapphire, and many fashion-forward heathered options. Tag: Tagless heat-transfer label (printed inside the neck for comfort). DTF Rating: Good — soft hand and premium feel, but thinner fabric requires careful pressing. Where to buy: SanMar | S&S Activewear | JiffyShirts

For a detailed breakdown, see our Gildan 64000 (G640) Softstyle Complete Style Guide.

---

Gildan 2000 (G200) — Ultra Cotton T-Shirt (6.0 oz)

The Gildan 2000 is the heavyweight workhorse of the Gildan lineup. At 6.0 oz, it is the thickest and most durable Gildan t-shirt, made from 100% preshrunk cotton with a classic fit. It has a stiffer, more structured feel than the G500 and is popular for uniform programs, work crews, and anyone who prefers a substantial shirt that holds its shape wash after wash.

Fabric: 100% preshrunk cotton. Safety colors are 50/50 blend. Fit: Classic, boxy American fit. Fuller through the body than the G500. Sizes: S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL, 4XL, 5XL Colors: 60+ colors including White, Black, Navy, Royal, Red, Sport Grey, Charcoal, Forest Green, and a full range of solids. Tag: Tear-away tag. DTF Rating: Good — excellent adhesion on the thick cotton, but the heavier fabric gives a slightly stiffer feel under the transfer. Where to buy: SanMar | S&S Activewear | JiffyShirts

For a detailed breakdown, see our Gildan 2000 (G200) Ultra Cotton Complete Style Guide.

---

Gildan 8000 (G800) — DryBlend T-Shirt (5.5 oz)

The Gildan 8000 is a 50/50 cotton/polyester blend designed for moisture-wicking performance at a budget price. The DryBlend fabric pulls moisture away from the body, making it popular for athletic teams, outdoor events, and casual wear. The poly content means colors stay vibrant wash after wash with minimal shrinkage, but it also means you need to lower your press temperature to avoid scorching.

Fabric: 50% cotton / 50% polyester (DryBlend moisture-wicking). Fit: Classic, relaxed fit. Similar dimensions to the G500. Sizes: S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL Colors: 40+ colors including White, Black, Sport Grey, Navy, Royal, Red, Safety Green, and key heathered options. Tag: Tear-away tag. DTF Rating: Good — poly blend requires lower press temp (280–295°F) to prevent scorching and dye migration. Where to buy: SanMar | S&S Activewear | JiffyShirts

For a detailed breakdown, see our Gildan 8000 (G800) DryBlend Complete Style Guide.

---

Gildan 42000 — Performance T-Shirt (4.7 oz)

The Gildan 42000 is a 100% polyester performance tee designed for active use. It features moisture-wicking AquaFX technology and a lightweight, breathable construction ideal for sports teams, gyms, and outdoor events. Because it is 100% polyester, DTF printers must use lower temperatures and be aware of dye sublimation migration on dark colors.

Fabric: 100% polyester with AquaFX moisture management. Fit: Classic, relaxed fit with set-in sleeves. Sizes: S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL Colors: 10+ colors including White, Black, Sport Grey, Navy, Royal, Red, Safety Green, Safety Orange. Tag: Tear-away tag. DTF Rating: Use with caution — 100% poly requires 270–285°F press temp, light pressure, and cold peel. Risk of dye migration on dark colors. Where to buy: S&S Activewear | JiffyShirts

---

Gildan 64000CVC — Softstyle CVC T-Shirt (4.5 oz)

The CVC (Chief Value Cotton) version of the Softstyle adds a subtle heather texture to every color. The cotton/polyester blend creates a unique marbled appearance that gives even solid colors visual depth and interest. It is a popular upgrade from the standard 64000 for retail-quality custom apparel.

Fabric: 60% cotton / 40% polyester (CVC blend). Some colors vary. Fit: Semi-fitted, modern cut identical to the standard 64000. Sizes: S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL Colors: 20+ CVC heathered colors including CVC Sport Grey, CVC Dark Heather, CVC Red, CVC Heather Military Green, and CVC Navy Mist. Tag: Tagless heat-transfer label. DTF Rating: Good — treat like a poly blend and use 290–305°F. Where to buy: S&S Activewear | JiffyShirts

---

Gildan Hoodie & Sweatshirt Styles

Gildan 18500 (G185) — Heavy Blend Hooded Sweatshirt (8.0 oz)

The Gildan 18500 is the best-selling hoodie in the blank apparel industry. Year after year, it outsells almost every other fleece on the market by delivering a reliable, easy-to-print hoodie at a price point that undercuts virtually every competitor. The 8.0 oz Heavy Blend fabric is a 50/50 cotton/poly construction with air-jet yarn for a softer feel and reduced pilling.

Fabric: 50% cotton / 50% polyester (Heavy Blend). Air-jet yarn for softness. Fit: Relaxed, classic fit. Double-lined hood with color-matched drawcord. Front pouch pocket. 1x1 rib cuffs and waistband with spandex. Sizes: S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL, 4XL, 5XL Colors: 40+ colors including White, Black, Sport Grey, Navy, Royal, Dark Heather, Red, Forest Green, Maroon, Charcoal, Safety Green, Ash, Sand, and heathered options. DTF Rating: Good — poly blend requires 285–300°F, 15–20 seconds, medium pressure, cold peel. Pre-press to remove moisture. Where to buy: SanMar | S&S Activewear | JiffyShirts

For a detailed breakdown, see our Gildan 18500 (G185) Heavy Blend Hoodie Complete Style Guide.

---

Gildan 18000 (G180) — Heavy Blend Crewneck Sweatshirt (8.0 oz)

The Gildan 18000 is the crewneck counterpart to the 18500 hoodie. Same 8.0 oz Heavy Blend fabric, same 50/50 construction, same affordability — just without the hood and pocket. It is the go-to crewneck for schools, teams, corporate giveaways, and anyone who wants a clean canvas for a DTF chest print.

Fabric: 50% cotton / 50% polyester (Heavy Blend). Air-jet yarn. Fit: Relaxed, classic fit. Set-in sleeves. 1x1 rib cuffs and waistband with spandex. Sizes: S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL, 4XL, 5XL Colors: 30+ colors including White, Black, Sport Grey, Navy, Royal, Dark Heather, Red, Forest Green, Ash, and Charcoal. DTF Rating: Good — same settings as the 18500. Pre-press to remove moisture. 285–300°F, 15–20 seconds. Where to buy: SanMar | S&S Activewear | JiffyShirts

For a detailed breakdown, see our Gildan 18000 (G180) Heavy Blend Crewneck Complete Style Guide.

---

Gildan 18600 — Heavy Blend Full-Zip Hooded Sweatshirt (8.0 oz)

The Gildan 18600 is the full-zip version of the 18500 hoodie. It features the same 8.0 oz Heavy Blend fabric with a metal zipper and split front pouch pocket. The overlapped fabric at the zipper allows full front printing on either side. Popular for layering pieces and custom branded jackets.

Fabric: 50% cotton / 50% polyester (Heavy Blend). Air-jet yarn. Fit: Relaxed fit. Double-lined hood with drawcord. Metal zipper. Split pouch pocket. Sizes: S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL, 4XL, 5XL Colors: 15+ colors including White, Black, Sport Grey, Navy, Royal, Red, Dark Heather, and Forest Green. DTF Rating: Good — same as 18500 but print on the chest panels rather than across the zipper. Consider left-chest or back placement. Where to buy: SanMar | S&S Activewear | JiffyShirts

---

Gildan SF500 — Softstyle Midweight Hooded Sweatshirt (7.0 oz)

The Gildan SF500 is a newer addition to the Gildan lineup, offering a softer, more modern alternative to the classic Heavy Blend hoodie. It features a 100% ring-spun cotton face with a cozy brushed interior. The lighter 7.0 oz weight and slimmer cut make it a premium step up for custom apparel brands looking for retail-quality blanks.

Fabric: 80% ring-spun cotton / 20% polyester. 100% cotton face. Brushed interior. Fit: Modern, slightly slimmer fit than the 18500. Jersey-lined hood with flat drawcord. Sizes: S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL Colors: 15+ colors including White, Black, Sport Grey, Navy, Dark Heather, and selected fashion tones. DTF Rating: Good — higher cotton content is easier for DTF. Press at 300–315°F. Where to buy: S&S Activewear | JiffyShirts

---

Gildan Long Sleeve Styles

Gildan 5400 (G540) — Heavy Cotton Long Sleeve T-Shirt (5.3 oz)

The long-sleeve version of the G500. Same 100% cotton Heavy Cotton fabric, same classic fit, just with full-length sleeves. It is the most popular Gildan long sleeve for fall and winter DTF printing.

Fabric: 100% preshrunk cotton. Safety colors are 50/50 blend. Fit: Classic, relaxed fit. Set-in sleeves with double-needle stitched cuffs. Sizes: S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL Colors: 20+ colors including White, Black, Sport Grey, Navy, Royal, Red, Forest Green, and Charcoal. DTF Rating: Excellent — same great adhesion as the G500. Standard 305–325°F cotton settings. Where to buy: SanMar | S&S Activewear | JiffyShirts

---

Gildan 2400 (G240) — Ultra Cotton Long Sleeve T-Shirt (6.0 oz)

The long-sleeve version of the G200 Ultra Cotton. At 6.0 oz, it provides the heaviest long-sleeve option in the Gildan lineup. Ideal for work crews, outdoor events, and layering.

Fabric: 100% preshrunk cotton. Fit: Classic, boxy fit. Taped neck and shoulders. Sizes: S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL Colors: 15+ colors including White, Black, Navy, Sport Grey, Royal, Red, and Charcoal. DTF Rating: Good — same as the G200. Where to buy: SanMar | S&S Activewear | JiffyShirts

---

Gildan 64400 (G644) — Softstyle Long Sleeve T-Shirt (4.5 oz)

The long-sleeve version of the Softstyle 64000. Ring-spun cotton, semi-fitted cut, and the same soft hand feel in a long-sleeve format. Great for fashion-forward seasonal custom apparel.

Fabric: 100% ring-spun cotton. Heathers are blends. Fit: Semi-fitted, modern cut. Sizes: S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL Colors: 10+ colors including White, Black, Navy, Dark Heather, Sport Grey, and RS Sport Grey. DTF Rating: Good — same care as the 64000. Use 300–315°F. Where to buy: S&S Activewear | JiffyShirts

---

Gildan Tank Top Styles

Gildan 2200 — Ultra Cotton Tank Top (6.0 oz)

The Gildan 2200 is the classic men's tank top in 100% cotton Ultra Cotton fabric. Wide shoulder straps and a generous armhole make it comfortable for casual wear, gym use, and summer events. The 6.0 oz weight provides excellent structure for DTF printing on the front chest.

Fabric: 100% preshrunk cotton. Fit: Classic fit with wide straps. Generous armholes. Sizes: S, M, L, XL, 2XL Colors: 10+ colors including White, Black, Sport Grey, Navy, Royal, Red, and Charcoal. DTF Rating: Good — same cotton press settings as the G200. Watch placement near the armhole seams. Where to buy: SanMar | S&S Activewear | JiffyShirts

---

Gildan 64200 (G642L) — Softstyle Junior Fit Tank Top (4.5 oz)

A women's/junior fit tank top in the Softstyle ring-spun cotton fabric. Slimmer silhouette with a feminine cut, ideal for women's custom apparel lines.

Fabric: 100% ring-spun cotton. Heathers are blends. Fit: Semi-fitted, women's/junior cut. Narrow shoulder straps. Sizes: S, M, L, XL, 2XL Colors: 10+ colors including White, Black, Sport Grey, Navy, Dark Heather, Heather Sapphire. DTF Rating: Good — lightweight fabric requires careful pressing. Use 300–315°F. Where to buy: S&S Activewear | JiffyShirts

---

Gildan Women's Styles

Gildan offers women's-specific styles with a more contoured fit than the unisex models. These are slimmer through the waist and shorter in body length, designed for a feminine silhouette.

Gildan 5000L — Heavy Cotton Ladies' T-Shirt (5.3 oz)

The women's version of the G500. Same 100% cotton Heavy Cotton fabric, contoured for a women's fit with narrower shoulders and a tapered waist.

Fabric: 100% preshrunk cotton. Fit: Contoured, semi-fitted. Narrower shoulders, tapered body. Sizes: S, M, L, XL, 2XL Colors: 20+ colors including White, Black, Sport Grey, Navy, Red, Royal, and Heather options. DTF Rating: Excellent — same cotton settings as the G500. ---

Gildan 64000L — Softstyle Ladies' T-Shirt (4.5 oz)

The women's version of the Softstyle 64000. Ring-spun cotton with a slimmer, more fitted cut designed for the female form. Popular for bachelorette parties, boutique retail, and women's custom apparel.

Fabric: 100% ring-spun cotton. Heathers are blends. Fit: Fitted, modern women's cut. Shorter body length. Sizes: S, M, L, XL, 2XL Colors: 20+ colors including White, Black, Dark Heather, Navy, Sport Grey, Heather Sapphire, and fashion heathers. DTF Rating: Good — same care as the 64000. Use 300–315°F. Women's Gildan shirts run slimmer and shorter than unisex models. If a customer is between sizes, recommend sizing up. For more on fit types and neckline options, see our Types of T-Shirts: Fits, Necklines, and Apparel Guide.

---

Gildan Youth Styles

Gildan 5000B (G500B) — Youth Heavy Cotton T-Shirt (5.3 oz)

The youth version of the best-selling G500. Same 100% cotton Heavy Cotton fabric sized for children. The #1 choice for youth DTF printing, school events, and youth sports teams.

Fabric: 100% preshrunk cotton. Fit: Classic youth fit. Sizes: XS (2-4), S (6-8), M (10-12), L (14-16), XL (18-20) Colors: 30+ colors matching the adult G500 lineup. DTF Rating: Excellent — same adhesion as the adult G500. Scale designs to 6–7 inches wide for front chest placement on youth XS. Where to buy: SanMar | S&S Activewear | JiffyShirts

---

Gildan 8000B (G800B) — Youth DryBlend T-Shirt (5.5 oz)

The youth version of the DryBlend G800. The 50/50 blend wicks moisture, making it popular for youth sports teams and summer camps.

Fabric: 50% cotton / 50% polyester. Fit: Classic youth fit. Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL Colors: 15+ colors including White, Black, Sport Grey, Navy, Royal, Red. DTF Rating: Good — lower temp to 280–295°F for the poly blend. Where to buy: SanMar | S&S Activewear | JiffyShirts

---

Gildan 18500B (G185B) — Youth Heavy Blend Hoodie (8.0 oz)

The youth version of the 18500 hoodie. Same Heavy Blend 50/50 fabric with a double-lined hood, front pouch pocket, and ribbed cuffs. The go-to youth hoodie for schools, teams, and youth organizations.

Fabric: 50% cotton / 50% polyester. Fit: Relaxed youth fit. Double-lined hood with drawcord (drawcord-free versions available for child safety compliance). Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL Colors: 15+ colors including White, Black, Sport Grey, Navy, Royal, Red. DTF Rating: Good — same settings as the adult 18500. Pre-press to remove moisture. Where to buy: SanMar | S&S Activewear | JiffyShirts

---

What Does 5.3 oz Mean?

Fabric weight is measured in ounces per square yard (oz/yd²). Here is what the common Gildan weights mean in practice:

For DTF printing, midweight shirts (5.3–5.5 oz) provide the best balance of press stability and customer comfort. Lightweight shirts (4.5 oz) may shift during pressing if not secured properly. Fleece items (7.0–8.0 oz) require a pre-press to remove moisture and slightly higher dwell times.

---

Is Gildan True to Size?

Gildan shirts generally run true to size for classic American sizing, which tends to be slightly looser than fashion-fit brands like Bella+Canvas or Comfort Colors. Key considerations:

• Classic fit Gildan (5000, 2000, G800): True to size, boxy fit. If a customer wears a medium in most brands, a Gildan medium will fit comfortably or slightly loose.
• Softstyle Gildan (64000): Slightly more fitted than the classic line, closer to a fashion fit. Similar to a Next Level 3600 in terms of modern cut.
• Youth sizes: Run slightly large compared to some brands. When in doubt, order the smaller youth size.
• Women's styles (5000L, 64000L): Run slimmer and shorter than unisex. Size up if between sizes.

Do Gildan Hoodies Run Small?

Gildan hoodies (18500 Heavy Blend) run true to size or slightly generous. They are a relaxed fit, not a slim fit. Customers who prefer a snug hoodie should consider sizing down. For more on hoodie and sweatshirt blanks, see our Blank Hoodies and Sweatshirts Guide.

---

Which Gildan Shirts Work Best for DTF Printing?

### DTF Temperature for Gildan Shirts

• 100% Cotton models (5000, 2000, 5400, 2400): 305–325°F, 12–15 seconds, medium pressure, cold peel
• DryBlend models (G800, G800B): 280–295°F, 10–12 seconds, medium-light pressure, cold peel
• Softstyle (64000, 64400): 300–315°F, 10–12 seconds, medium pressure, cold peel
• Performance (42000): 270–285°F, 8–10 seconds, light pressure, cold peel
• Heavy Blend Fleece (18500, 18000, 18600): 285–300°F, 15–20 seconds, medium pressure, cold peel. Pre-press 3–5 seconds.

For a complete temperature chart across all fabric types, see our DTF Transfer Temperature Guide. For placement sizing tips, check our Shirt Placement Guide and DTF Sizing Chart.

---

Dark Heather and Specialty Colors

Gildan offers color options across its lineup including dark heather (a deep charcoal-gray blend), heather sapphire, heather military green, and other heathered tones. Dark heather is one of the most popular alternatives to solid black — it provides visual interest while still working well with DTF transfers on dark garments.

Important for DTF: Heathered colors contain polyester content in the blend, even on styles labeled as cotton. Lower your press temperature to 290–300°F for heathered colors to prevent dye migration and scorching.

The Softstyle 64000 and 64000CVC lines offer the widest range of fashion heather colors, while the Heavy Cotton 5000 focuses more on solid colors with select heather options.

---

Gildan White Shirt: The Blank Canvas

The Gildan 5000 in white is the single most common blank used in the custom apparel industry. It is inexpensive (starting around $2.79 wholesale from S&S Activewear or JiffyShirts), widely stocked at every major distributor, and provides a clean base for any printing method. If you are building a DTF transfer business and need a default recommendation for customers, the Gildan 5000 white in midweight cotton is the safe choice.

---

Where to Buy Gildan Shirts Wholesale

The three most popular wholesale distributors for Gildan blanks are:

SanMar — One of the largest promotional apparel distributors in the U.S. Carries the full Gildan catalog with detailed product specs, color swatches, and sizing. Requires a reseller account for pricing. Best for established businesses ordering in bulk. S&S Activewear — A leading wholesale distributor popular with DTF and screen printing businesses. Offers competitive pricing, fast shipping, and an easy-to-navigate website. Carries all major Gildan styles including the latest additions like the SF500 Softstyle Hoodie. JiffyShirts — Known for fast 1–2 day shipping, free shipping at $59, and bulk discounts at $99. No minimum order quantities and free 100-day returns. Great for smaller DTF businesses and one-off orders.

For more on choosing suppliers and getting the best pricing, see our DTF Transfer Deals and Discount Codes Guide.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Gildan large size chart measurement?

A Gildan 5000 in size Large measures approximately 22 inches chest width and 30 inches body length. Exact measurements vary by style — the Softstyle 64000 Large is slightly slimmer than the Heavy Cotton 5000 Large. The Ultra Cotton 2000 Large has the same chest width but a slightly different feel due to the heavier 6.0 oz fabric.

Is Gildan true to size?

Gildan classic fit shirts (5000, 2000) run true to standard American sizing, which is slightly more relaxed than fashion-fit brands. The Softstyle line (64000) runs slightly slimmer and is closer to a Bella+Canvas 3001 in terms of modern cut. When in doubt, size up for a comfortable fit.

What does 5.3 oz mean on a Gildan shirt?

The 5.3 oz refers to the fabric weight measured in ounces per square yard. It indicates a midweight cotton shirt — sturdy enough for durability without feeling heavy. It is the most popular weight for custom printing.

What is the best Gildan shirt for DTF transfers?

The Gildan 5000 (Heavy Cotton, 5.3 oz) is the industry standard for DTF transfers. It provides excellent adhesion, consistent results, and is the most cost-effective blank in the Gildan lineup. You can purchase it wholesale from SanMar, S&S Activewear, or JiffyShirts.

What size is a youth medium in Gildan?

A Gildan youth medium (G500B or G800B) measures approximately 17 inches chest width and 22.5–23.5 inches body length depending on the style. Youth sizes tend to run slightly large compared to some other brands.

Do Gildan hoodies run small?

No. Gildan hoodies (18500 Heavy Blend) run true to size with a relaxed fit. They are not slim-fit hoodies. Customers who prefer a fitted look should size down. The newer SF500 Softstyle hoodie runs slightly slimmer than the 18500.

What is the difference between Gildan 5000 and 2000?

The Gildan 5000 (Heavy Cotton) is 5.3 oz and the Gildan 2000 (Ultra Cotton) is 6.0 oz. The 2000 is thicker, stiffer, and more structured. The 5000 is more comfortable for everyday wear while still being durable. Both are 100% cotton with classic fits, but the 5000 outsells the 2000 significantly due to its better balance of weight and comfort.

What is the difference between Gildan G500 and G640?

The G500 (5000) is the Heavy Cotton at 5.3 oz — a classic, boxy fit in standard cotton. The G640 (64000) is the Softstyle at 4.5 oz — ring-spun cotton with a softer hand feel and a slimmer, more modern fit. The G640 feels more like a retail t-shirt while the G500 feels like a traditional blank.

Where is the best place to buy Gildan shirts in bulk?

SanMar, S&S Activewear, and JiffyShirts are the three most popular wholesale distributors. SanMar and S&S Activewear offer the best bulk pricing for established businesses, while JiffyShirts is great for smaller orders with no minimums and fast shipping.

---

Gildan Tag History

Gildan has changed its neck tag design multiple times over the years. Understanding Gildan tag history helps identify manufacturing era and verify authenticity:

• Pre-2010: Gildan used a sewn-in woven neck tag with the Gildan logo, style number, size, and fabric content on a white rectangular label
• 2010–2015: Gildan introduced a tear-away tag system on select styles, allowing decorators to remove the manufacturer tag for custom relabeling
• 2015–2019: Updated tag design with the modern Gildan wordmark and revised care instruction formatting. Tear-away tags became standard across most styles
• 2019–2023: Gildan transitioned many styles to a tagless heat-transfer label (printed directly inside the neck) for comfort. Some styles retained tear-away tags
• 2023–present: Gildan continues to use a mix of tear-away and tagless labels depending on the specific style number. The Heavy Cotton (5000/G500) uses a tear-away tag, while the Softstyle (64000/G640) uses a tagless heat-transfer label

For custom apparel businesses using DTF neck labels, tear-away tag styles are preferred — remove the manufacturer tag and press your custom DTF label in its place. Tagless styles require pressing your custom label over the existing heat-transfer print.

---

Complete Gildan Style Index

Looking for a specific Gildan style? Here are individual style guides with detailed color availability, sizing, DTF tips, and wholesale pricing:

T-Shirts:

• Gildan 5000 (G500) — Heavy Cotton
• Gildan 64000 (G640) — Softstyle
• Gildan 2000 (G200) — Ultra Cotton
• Gildan 8000 (G800) — DryBlend

Hoodies & Sweatshirts:

• Gildan 18500 (G185) — Heavy Blend Hoodie
• Gildan 18000 (G180) — Heavy Blend Crewneck

For other blank apparel brands, see our Bella+Canvas and Comfort Colors Comparison, our Blank Hoodies and Specialty Apparel Guide, and our Blank Shirt Product Codes Guide.