How to Choose the Right Fabric GSM for Activewear?

3

year

Search This Supplers Products:Activewear Custom ManufacturingCustom Sports T-shirtsCustom Sports Tank TopCustom Gym ShortsCustom Yoga LeggingsCustom Nursing Bras

home categories store home faqsActivewear Manufacturing FAQ

Fabric GSM (grams per square meter) directly affects opacity, support, breathability, durability, and overall wear performance in activewear.

Based on 15+ years of activewear manufacturing experience at Ohsurewear, choosing the right GSM is not about “heavier is better,” but about matching fabric weight to function, movement, and brand positioning.

Below is a practical, factory-level guide used in real OEM & ODM production.

1️⃣ What Does GSM Mean in Activewear Manufacturing?

GSM measures fabric weight per square meter. In activewear, GSM influences:

• Thickness and coverage (squat-proof level)

• Compression and support

• Heat retention vs breathability

• Fabric durability over repeated wear and washing

From a manufacturer’s perspective, GSM must always be evaluated together with fiber composition and knit structure, not in isolation.

2️⃣ Low GSM Fabrics (160–200 GSM)

Best for: Light-support tops & breathable layers

Common applications

• Lightweight sports bras (low impact)

• Yoga tops and tanks

• Summer training wear

Characteristics

• High breathability

• Lightweight and flexible feel

• Faster drying

Limitations

• Limited compression

• Not suitable for squat-proof leggings

At Ohsurewear, low GSM fabrics are typically used for upper-body activewear, not bottoms.

3️⃣ Medium GSM Fabrics (210–250 GSM)

Best for: Everyday leggings & mid-support sports bras

This is the most versatile GSM range in bulk activewear production.

Common applications

• Yoga and gym leggings

• Medium-support sports bras

• All-season activewear sets

Why this range works

• Balanced stretch and support

• Improved opacity for leggings

• Comfortable for long wear

Most core leggings at Ohsurewear are developed within this GSM range for commercial-ready performance.

4️⃣ High GSM Fabrics (260–320 GSM)

Best for: Compression leggings & high-impact sports bras

High GSM fabrics are used when support and structure are the priority.

Common applications

• High-compression leggings

• Running or HIIT sports bras

• Sculpting or shaping collections

Key benefits

• Enhanced compression and muscle support

• Superior squat-proof performance

• Better shape retention over time

Trade-offs

• Reduced breathability

• Heavier hand feel

This GSM range is commonly paired with nylon/polyamide + Lycra blends in premium collections at Ohsurewear.

5️⃣ GSM Alone Is Not Enough — Construction Matters

From a professional manufacturing standpoint, GSM must be considered alongside:

• Fiber composition (nylon vs polyester)

• Knit type (single jersey, interlock, double-knit)

• Yarn quality and elastane ratio

• Finishing processes (brushed, sanded, compacted)

A well-constructed 230 GSM double-knit fabric can outperform a poorly made 280 GSM fabric.

6️⃣ Choosing GSM Based on Activity Type

Activity Type	Recommended GSM
Yoga / Pilates	210–230 GSM
Gym Training	220–250 GSM
Running / HIIT	240–300 GSM
Lifestyle / Athleisure	200–230 GSM
At Ohsurewear, GSM selection always starts with end-use analysis, not price alone.

Manufacturer Insight from Ohsurewear

One of the most common mistakes brands make is over-specifying GSM in hopes of better quality. In reality, excessive GSM can compromise comfort, flexibility, and wearability.

Professional activewear development focuses on:

• Functional performance

• Long-term durability

• Consistent bulk production results

That’s why Ohsurewear evaluates GSM together with fabric structure, stretch recovery, and real wear testing before final approval.