Navigating size charts is one of the most critical steps in building a successful custom apparel brand. For many print shop owners in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, choosing the right Gildan blank apparel is the foundation of their business. Whether you are printing high-volume event tees in Richardson or premium streetwear in Arlington, understanding how a garment fits and how it reacts to heat is what separates professionals from amateurs.
Gildan is the industry standard for a reason: consistency. However, a "Medium" in a Heavy Cotton tee fits differently than a "Medium" in a Softstyle shirt. This guide breaks down the essential Gildan size chart and provides industrial-grade tips to ensure your DTF transfers look perfect on every size.
Why the Gildan Size Chart Matters for Your Brand
In the custom printing world, the size chart is more than just numbers; it's a tool to reduce customer returns and maximize print space. When you know the exact dimensions of a G5000 or a G18500 hoodie, you can optimize your wholesale DTF gang sheets to fit as many designs as possible without hitting the seams.
How to Measure Correctly: Flat Lay vs. Body
Before diving into the charts, remember that Gildan measurements are "Flat Lay" (Garment Measurements).
- Width: Measured from armpit to armpit across the chest.
- Length: Measured from the highest point of the shoulder to the bottom hem.
Quick Compare: All Gildan Models
Gildan Blank Line-Up at a Glance
| Model | Line | Fit | Fabric | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5000 | Heavy Cotton | Classic | 5.3 oz, 100% cotton | Event tees, work uniforms |
| 5000B | Heavy Cotton | Classic | 5.3 oz, 100% cotton | Youth & kids apparel |
| 18500 | Heavy Blend | Roomy | Fleece hoodie | Layering, streetwear |
| 64000 | Softstyle | Semi-Fitted | Ring-spun cotton | Boutique brands, fine-line prints |
Gildan 5000 Size Chart (Heavy Cotton™)
The G5000 is the most popular t-shirt in the world. It features a Classic Fit, meaning it has a boxier, roomier feel. It is the go-to choice for promotional events and work uniforms across North Texas.
Gildan 5000
Heavy Cotton · Adult
| Size | Width (in) | Length (in) |
|---|---|---|
| S | 28 | |
| M | 29 | |
| L | 30 | |
| XL | 31 | |
| 2XL | 32 | |
| 3XL | 33 |
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DTF Dallas Pro-Tip: Because the G5000 is a 5.3 oz mid-weight 100% cotton fabric, it requires heavy pressure (60 PSI) during the heat press process. This ensures the TPU adhesive bites into the heavy fibers for a retail-ready finish.
Gildan 5000B Youth Size Chart (Heavy Cotton™)
Gildan 5000B
Heavy Cotton · Youth
| Size | Width (in) | Length (in) |
|---|---|---|
| YXS | 20.5 | |
| YS | 22 | |
| YM | 23.5 | |
| YL | 25 | |
| YXL | 26.5 |
Gildan 18500 Size Chart (Heavy Blend™ Hoodie)
When looking for a Gildan sweatshirt size chart, the G18500 is the benchmark. Hoodies are designed with extra room to be worn over other layers, which is reflected in the wider chest measurements.
Gildan 18500
Heavy Blend · Hoodie
| Size | Width (in) | Length (in) |
|---|---|---|
| S | 27 | |
| M | 28 | |
| L | 29 | |
| XL | 30 | |
| 2XL | 31 | |
| 3XL | 32 |
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DTF Dallas Pro-Tip: Fleece material can be tricky. When pressing these hoodies, always use a heat press pillow. This levels the printing surface near the kangaroo pocket and thick seams, preventing "cold spots" where the transfer might peel.
Gildan 64000 Size Chart (Softstyle®)
For brands looking for a "retail-fit" or fashion-forward silhouette, the Softstyle line is the winner. It is Semi-Fitted, meaning it is narrower in the body and sleeves compared to the Heavy Cotton line.
Gildan 64000
Softstyle · Adult
| Size | Width (in) | Length (in) |
|---|---|---|
| S | 28 | |
| M | 29.25 | |
| L | 30.25 | |
| XL | 31.25 | |
| 2XL | 32.5 |
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DTF Dallas Pro-Tip: The Softstyle is made of ring-spun cotton, creating an ultra-smooth surface. This makes it the best choice for high-detail designs and fine-line DTF transfers.
Understanding Gildan Fits: Classic vs. Semi-Fitted
Choosing the right fit is just as important as the size.
Classic Fit · G5000 / G2000
Traditional, loose, and durable. Best for "Lone Star" work shirts or oversized streetwear trends.
Semi-Fitted · G64000
Contoured to the body. This is what you want if you are building a boutique clothing brand in Dallas or Plano.
Fabric and Shrinkage Considerations
While most Gildan products are "pre-shrunk," 100% cotton garments can still experience slight shrinkage (about 2-3%) if washed in hot water. If your customers are between sizes, we always recommend sizing up to ensure long-term comfort, especially for Heavy Cotton items.
Does Gildan Run Small or Big?
Gildan shirts generally fit true to size with a classic, slightly roomy cut rather than a slim modern fit. The Heavy Cotton 5000 and Ultra Cotton 2000 run true to size for most adults, though the boxier body leads some people to size down for a closer fit. Youth sizes also run true to size. When you print, always go by the garment's measured width and length above rather than the label, since fit preference varies from person to person.
The Local Advantage for DFW Brands
Running a clothing brand in Dallas requires speed. By mastering the Gildan shirt size chart, you can confidently pre-order your custom DTF transfers and pick them up the same day in Richardson or Arlington.
Matching the right size with a high-quality print is the secret to customer loyalty. Don't guess. Measure, press, and scale your brand with the precision of a pro.
FAQ: Gildan Sizing Quick Hits
Does the Gildan 5000 run true to size?
The Gildan 5000 runs true to size with a Classic Fit that sits slightly roomier than modern retail shirts. For a tighter, contoured cut, the Gildan Softstyle 64000 is the better pick. Match your DTF Dallas transfer to the garment width in the chart above, then order your DTF transfers for same-day pickup in Richardson.
Should I size up for Gildan hoodies?
The Gildan 18500 hoodie is already cut slightly larger for layering, so most customers find their standard size fits perfectly. Size up only for a baggy streetwear look. Press these fleece hoodies with a heat press pillow so your DTF Dallas transfer stays flat over the kangaroo pocket and thick seams. Start your hoodie transfers here.
Will the print size look different on a Small vs. a 3XL?
Yes, a 12-inch design covers most of the chest on a Small Gildan 5000 but looks smaller on a 3XL, which measures 28 inches wide. Build separate print sizes for each garment range so the artwork stays proportional across your run. Use the DTF Dallas gang sheet builder to set different sizes on one sheet.
What is the difference between the Gildan 5000 and the Gildan 64000?
The Gildan 5000 is a Classic Fit, 5.3 oz heavy 100% cotton tee with a boxier cut, while the Gildan 64000 Softstyle is a Semi-Fitted, ring-spun cotton tee with a slimmer, retail-style silhouette. Choose the 5000 for event and work tees and the 64000 for boutique brands and fine-line detail. Order DTF Transfers for either blank here.
Are Gildan blanks good for DTF transfers?
Gildan blanks are an excellent match for DTF transfers because their cotton and cotton-blend surfaces hold TPU adhesive well under a proper heat press. The ring-spun Softstyle 64000 gives the smoothest surface for high-detail prints, and the Heavy Cotton 5000 presses cleanly at 60 PSI. Browse DTF Dallas blank apparel to get started.
What is the largest Gildan size available?
The Gildan 5000 Heavy Cotton tee and the Gildan 18500 hoodie both run up to 3XL, measuring 28 inches and 30 inches in chest width respectively, while the Softstyle 64000 tops out at 2XL. Always size your DTF gang sheet to the widest garment in the run so the design does not crowd the seams. Build your custom gang sheet here.
Key Takeaways
Fast Reference
- Gildan 5000 (Heavy Cotton): Classic boxy fit, best for event tees and work uniforms. Press at 60 PSI.
- Gildan 64000 (Softstyle): Semi-fitted, ring-spun cotton, best for boutique brands and fine-line prints.
- Gildan 18500 (Hoodie): Cut roomy for layering. Use a heat press pillow around pockets and seams.
- Sizing: Gildan runs true to size with a slightly roomy cut. When between sizes, size up for cotton.
- Always measure by garment width and length, not the label, and add a +/- 1-inch tolerance.
