Different Brands – Same T-Shirts?

We often get asked what brand is best when it comes to a t-shirt.   Customers say there are so many and frankly all of the shirts look the same. Our customers are always looking for the best deal and the truth is there isn’t that much of a difference.  For instance on the basic white tee, there are several brands that compete in what I call the value market.  There is Gildan, Hanes, Fruit of the Loom, Jerzees, Delta, Anvil, and even Alstyle.  Because the white t-shirt is a commodity, the factory that produces the most is typically is able to offer the best price.  So therefore, Gildan and Fruit of the Loom usually have the edge.  But volume alone doesn’t get it done.  I don’t know about you, but I would pay a couple extra pennies if one product was better than the others.  And that is the case.

How do you tell the difference between t-shirt brands?

I feel that the Gildan G500 is the best WHITE tee on the market.  The shirt holds up better and frankly the white is just brighter.  When you put it next to the Fruit 3931  it looks so much whiter.  So I would be willing to pay a few more pennies and that is why we stock the Gildan over the Fruit.  However, when it comes to colors its a different story.  I do think the Gildan is better, but not by much and with darker colors you really can’t see the difference.  In regards to the white, a lot of people must agree with me because Gildan is the largest manfufacturer of t-shirts in the world so they are doing something right.

Keep in mind, my analysis is not taking into account the premium brands like American Apparel.  Their price point is so much higher it’s kind of like comparing apples to oranges.  Bottom line, all of the shirts are good.  If you are a screenprinter I would recommend trying all of the different bulk white t-shirts and seeing which one works best for you.  And always remember, “There’s no business, like the T-Shirt business.”