DRMLXRY Cold Start Heavyweight Hoodie

What Makes a Heavyweight Hoodie? GSM Explained

Heavyweight is the word every hoodie wants on its tag. The number that actually tells you is GSM. Here is what it means and how to use it when you shop.

What GSM means

GSM is grams per square meter: how much one square meter of the fabric weighs. More grams means a denser, thicker fabric. You will also see ounces per square yard. To convert, divide GSM by about 33.9, so 500 gsm is about 14.7 oz.

What counts as heavyweight

There is no official cutoff, and tees and fleece use different scales. For hoodies and sweats, these rough bands are common:

  • Under 280 gsm: lightweight. Thin pullovers and summer layers.
  • 280 to 350 gsm: midweight. Most everyday hoodies.
  • 350 gsm and up: heavyweight. Hoodies and sweats with real body.
  • 450 gsm and up: very heavy. The thick, structured pieces.

Tees run lighter: 220 gsm and up already counts as a heavyweight tee. More in Heavyweight T-Shirts.

What the extra weight changes

  • Shape. Heavy fabric holds a boxy, structured shape instead of clinging.
  • Warmth. More fabric means more warmth, which is why a heavy hoodie can replace a light jacket.
  • Feel. It feels substantial in the hand and drapes straight down.
  • Trade-offs. It is warmer, so it breathes less in summer, and it takes longer to dry.

Every DRMLXRY piece by weight

Care for heavy fabric

Machine wash at 30°C (86°F) on a gentle cycle and tumble dry low. Do not bleach or dry clean, and keep the iron off the print.

Shop the heavy end of the line in Car Hoodies and Sweatshirts.

Back to blog