Comparable T-Shirt Options Across Brands

By ShirtSpace | Jun 24, 2024 |  Updated Nov 19, 2024

You might be wondering why a t-shirt brand comparison might be helpful to you if you already have the tried-and-true favorites that you go to every time. That is a good point, but there are also a variety of scenarios where having a good backup is never a bad idea. If you are an apparel decorator who regularly orders, then you have, or likely will have, run into a time when stocking shortages, discontinuation of styles or colors, or shipping delays put you in a pinch to complete your goal. In these instances, finding an affordable and comparable product dupe can save you valuable time, a headache and money. This is why we have put together a list of the most popular t-shirt styles and comparable t-shirt options that you will love just as much!

Hero image credit: SHOTPRIME

Comparable T-Shirt Options Across Brands

When comparing t-shirts, there are a variety of features you must consider in order to get as close of a match as possible:

FABRIC WEIGHT: In the U.S., fabric weight is communicated in ounces. This is also referred to as a material’s fabric density, or GSM, which stands for “grams per square meter.” The higher the weight and GSM, the more durable and thicker the garment will be. Embroiderers often aim for a heavier-weighted piece of clothing, as it makes the craft easier and holds up the design well. Here is a quick breakdown of fabric weight and density.

Lightweight:	Midweight:	Heavyweight:
Up to 4.5 oz GSM: 90-149	4.5–5.9 oz GSM: 150-200	6 oz or higher GSM: 200+

FIBERS: The options for fabric content are plentiful, with 100% cotton, polyester or modal. Or there are popular blends, such as triblends, spandex blends, or polyester blended with cotton or viscose. These fibers will not only dictate the feel and drape of the garment, but also the decorating method you can carry out, if you choose to customize your shirt.


Image credit: Allmade

MANUFACTURING: Shirts can be made from many materials, and that list gets even longer when you take blended materials into account. But the differentiation does not end there. For example, there is quite a big difference between “combed and ringspun cotton” and simple “100% cotton”. Combed and ringspun cotton will be much softer to the touch than cotton that has not gone through these kinds of treatments. Such terms are something to pay close attention to, as these methods of manufacturing create vastly different threads and, in turn, yield vastly different products. 

SIZING: Typically, sizing for adult tees and sweatshirts starts at XS or S and goes up from there. Although standard sizing labels are very helpful when selecting your size, it is essential to also consider both your personal and the garment’s measurements. Due to inconsistency in sizing across the entire global apparel industry, size discrepancies are to be expected. An XS in one brand might be closer to a small in another. It’s also essential to consider the cut when thinking about sizing. For example, a women’s medium might be closer to a unisex size small, and a men’s size medium might be closer to a unisex size small. 

MEASUREMENTS: We recommend that when even the slightest bit unsure about sizing, it’s best to refer to taking exact measurements and comparing them to the product’s size chart listed on the product page. This will give you an idea of whether the fit will be similar when looking at comparable t-shirt options.

COLOR OPTIONS: Color matching can be tricky – especially when shopping through a screen. When shopping for comparable colors, it can be helpful to know which brands tend to carry what kind of color. For example, Bella+Canvas has many unique and trendy colors, such as mauves, dusty hues, and even their pastel prism collection. Brands like Hanes tend to stick to the classics. 

When searching for comparable colors, it’s also helpful to find synonyms for the color. For example, classic yellow in many brands is also known as “daisy”. You can use an online thesaurus to find color synonyms, reverse image search if you have a swatch, or other color exploring sources like the Coolors color library or Image Color Picker to rightfully identify color matches. Another helpful tip – popular brands often release color charts that feature swatches. You can open multiple digital resources on your browser to view a side-by-side comparison of the color previews.

Shirts Comparable to Bella+Canvas

Shirt pictured: Bella+Canvas 3001C in “Soft Cream". 

Bella+Canvas makes some of the most popular wholesale blank t-shirts on the market today. Fashion-forward, affordable, of the best quality – you truly get what you pay for with Bella+Canvas t-shirts. As of now, the most popular tees from the brand are the 3001C and 3001CVC. At first, these sister styles lived under one product, but then were split into two with the increase in colors and demand for both the solid and CVC options. Bella+Canvas sizing is fairly true-to-size, although most of these styles feature a silhouette-hugging, side-seamed retail-inspired fit. Consider sizing up with lightweight airlume combed and ringspun cotton. This is because cotton is always prone to shrinkage and will do so without diligent steps being taken throughout the laundry process.

BELLA+CANVAS FIT

The fit of Bella+Canvas tees is a top-selling point since they are flattering and made with quality in mind. Slightly more fitted than classic, boxy t-shirts, Bella+Canvas shirts are trendy streetwear that helps you feel your best. Many feel that these are their go-to, thanks to Bella+Canvas’ signature fit. 

BELLA+CANVAS FABRIC

The most common reaction when someone feels a Bella+Canvas tee for the first time is shock at just how incredibly soft it is! There is no question that Bella+Canvas makes some of the softest tees available. How exactly do they accomplish this? Through Bella+Canvas’ meticulous methods of fiber treatment, that’s how! By creating airlume combed and ringspun cotton threads, Bella+Canvas is a leader in the industry in producing the softest blank garments the public has ever had access to on a wide scale. 

Shirts pictured: Bella+Canvas 3001C and 3001CVC adult unisex tees.

BELLA+CANVAS COLORS

The brand Bella+Canvas is also known for its massive color library. If you are looking for incredibly unique colors, Bella+Canvas will surely deliver. Yes, there are classics, but there are also colors that you can’t find anywhere else. Brand favorites like Autumn, Poppy and Dusty Blue all stand apart and are hard to replicate. With over 80 color options for the 3001C, there isn’t a brand that features as many options for a single shirt style. However, the Gildan G640 is somewhat comparable to Bella+Canvas’ 3001 tee, with 65 solid and heather options. The G640 also features a similar retail-inspired fit. If the sheer volume of color options is the draw for you – then you will also love Comfort Colors’ giant selection of color options.

Tees Comparable to Bella+Canvas’ 3001C 

(4.2 oz – 100% airlume combed and ringspun cotton – XS–5XL)

Shirts pictured: Bella+Canvas 3001C Unisex Jersey T-Shirts in “Mustard” and “Natural”.

If you like the Bella+Canvas 3001C, try the:

1. Alternative AA1070 (3.2 oz – 100% combed ringspun cotton – XS–4XL)

2. Tultex 602 (4.2 oz – 100% combed ringspun USA premium cotton fine jersey – XS–3XL) *MOST SIMILAR*

3. Platinum P601 (4.3 oz – 100% combed ringspun cotton – S–3XL)

4. Delta 11600L (4.3 oz – 100% preshrunk ringspun cotton – S–3XL)

5. American Apparel 2001 (4.3 oz – 100% combed ringspun cotton – XS–5XL) *MOST SIMILAR*

6. District DT6000 (4.3 oz – 100% combed ringpsun cotton – XS–4XL) *MOST SIMILAR*

7. Next Level 3600 (4.3 oz – 100% combed ringspun fine jersey – XS–6XL) *MOST SIMILAR*

8. Threadfast T1000 (4.5 oz – 100% ringspun cotton jersey – XS–5XL)

9. Gildan G640 (solid colors) (4.5 oz – 100% ringspun cotton – XS–5XL)

Tees Comparable to Bella+Canvas’ 3001CVC 

(4.2 oz – 52% airlume combed ringpsun cotton + 48% polyester)

Shirts pictured: Bella+Canvas 3001CVC Unisex Heather CVC T-Shirts in “Heather Baby Blue” and “Heather Dark Lavender”.

If you like the Bella+Canvas 3001CVC, try the:

1. Alternative A1070CV (4 oz – 60% combed ringpsun cotton + 40% recycled polyester – XS–4XL)

2. Tultex 602CVC (4.2 oz – 52% combed ringspun USA cotton + 48% polyester – XS–3XL) *MOST SIMILAR*

3. Platinum P601C (4.3 oz – 60% combed ringspun cotton + 40% polyester – S–3XL)

4. Threadfast T1001 (4.5 oz – 60% ringspun cotton + 40% recycled polyester – XS–5XL)

5. American Apparel 2001CVC (4.6 oz – 60% combed ringspun cotton + 40% recycled polyester – S–4XL)

6. District DM108 (4.3 oz – 60% combed ringpsun cotton + 40% polyester – XS–4XL)

7. Gildan G640 (heather colors) (4.5 oz – 65% polyester + 35% ringpsun cotton – XS–5XL)

T-Shirt Options Comparable to Gildan

Gildan shirts are the go-to for many reasons for personal shoppers and apparel decorators alike. Budget-friendly, with a variety of quality levels to choose from – Gildan has something for everyone.

GILDAN’S SIZING & FIT

Gildan’s sizing is fairly standard but does vary between classic, “boxy” styles like the G200, G500, G800 and Hammer tee. The Gildan Softstyle collection features retail-inspired fits that hug the body a bit more. Because of this reason, they are often perceived to run a bit smaller than the boxier styles. 

GILDAN COLORS

When it comes to color selection, Gildan has variety! Choose between all the colors of the rainbow, or something you don’t see that often. The G640 and G500 have the most options to choose from, with the Softstyle line a little more fashion-focused. Check out Gildan’s color chart to see the full selection of all the digital swatches for this brand.  

GILDAN’S PRICE POINT

Gildan remains a leader in the blank apparel industry because they have somehow been able to manage value for cost to benefit all parties beautifully. Budget decorators and those buying t-shirts in bulk appreciate the fair price point while still being able to deliver great quality. Whether you need a very basic tee like the Gildan G500 for a t-ball team or promotional items, or a bit more elevated, like the G640, for an apparel line or matching family vacation tees – Gildan has the variety to meet your expectations for price and quality.  

Tees Comparable to Gildan’s G640 

(4.5 oz – 100% ringspun cotton, heathers 65% polyester + 35% ringspun cotton – XS–5XL)
 

If you like the Gildan G640 HEATHERS (65% polyester + 35% ringspun cotton):

1. Next Level 6200 (3.5 oz – 65% polyester + 35% combed ringspun cotton – XS–3XL)

2. Tultex T241 (3.6 oz – 65% polyester + 35% combed ringspun cotton – XS–3XL)

3. Next Level 6200 (3.5 oz – 65% polyester + 35% combed ringspun cotton – XS–3XL)

4. Bella+Canvas 3001ECO (solid vs. heathered appearance) (4.2 oz – 65% recycled polyester + 35% recycled airlume combed and ringspun cotton – XS–3XL)

5. Delta 14600L (4.3 oz – 65% polyester + 35% cotton – S–3XL) *MOST SIMILAR*
    

If you like the Gildan G640 SOLIDS (100% ringspun cotton):

1. Bella+Canvas 3001C (4.2 oz – 100% airlume combed and ringspun cotton – XS–5XL)

2. Next Level 3600 (4.3 oz – 100% combed ringspun fine jersey – XS–6XL)

3. Threadfast Apparel T1000 (4.5 oz – 100% preshrunk ringspun cotton jersey – XS–5XL) *MOST SIMILAR*

4. Hanes 498PT (4.5 oz – 100% ringspun perfect-t cotton jersey – S–3XL) *MOST SIMILAR*

5. Fruit of the Loom IC47MR (4.6 oz – 100% ringspun cotton preshrunk jersey – XS–4XL)

Tees Comparable to Gildan’s G500 

(5.3 oz – 100% cotton – S–5XL)

Shirt pictured: Gildan G500 Adult Heavy Cotton T-Shirt in “Mint Green.” 

If you like the Gildan G500, try the:

1. Fruit of the Loom 3931 (5 oz – 100% jersey – SM–6XL)

2. M&O 132-4800 (5 oz – 100% cotton preshrunk jersey – XS–5XL)

3. Delta 11730 (5.2 oz – 100% preshrunk cotton – S–5XL)

4. Hanes 5280 (5.2 oz – 100% cotton – S–5XL) *MOST SIMILAR*

5. Port & Company PC54 (5.4 oz – 100% cotton – S–6XL) *MOST SIMILAR* 

Tees Comparable to Gildan’s H000

(6 oz – 100% combed ringspun cotton – S–4XL)

Shirt pictured: Gildan’s H000 Hammer™ Adult T-Shirt in the color “Lagoon Blue”.

If you like the Gildan Hammer Tee:

1. Bella+Canvas 3010C (6 oz – 100% airlume combed ringspun cotton – XS–3XL) *MOST SIMILAR*

2. Port & Company PC600 (6 oz – 100% combed ringspun cotton – S–4XL) *MOST SIMILAR*

3. American Apparel AL1301 (6 oz – 100% cotton – S–4XL)

4. Delta 65000 (6 oz – 100% cotton for solid colors – S–4XL)

5. Allmade AL3000 (6 oz – 100% recycled cotton – XS–4XL)

6. Port & Company PC61 (6.1 oz – 100% soft spun cotton – S–6XL)
    

T-Shirt Options Comparable to Comfort Colors

Shirt pictured: Comfort Colors C1717 Adult Heavyweight T-Shirt in “Burnt Orange.”

Is it the fit, the feel, the fabric weight, or the color that makes Comfort Colors t-shirts so unique and sought-after? It’s all of it! Usually, 100% heavyweight cotton is not so soft, but Comfort Colors finds a way! These shirts are incredibly soft despite their heavy weight. Not only that, but the brand’s extensive garment-dyed and soft-washed color selection tops even the most comparable competitors. The roomy fit is great to wear in your standard size or size up if you like an oversized look.

When it comes to finding comparable tees to Comfort Colors, there are a few terms that will aid you in your search. Beyond the label “garment dyed,” you will want to look for apparel collections that list terms like: “beach wash(ed),” “vintage wash(ed),” “enzyme wash(ed),” “mineral wash(ed)” or “pigment dyed,” as pigment dyeing is not the same as garment dyeing, but are similar in nature and results. 

COMFORT COLORS FABRIC

If the heavyweight of the fabric is your favorite part about Comfort Colors tees, then we recommend opting for American Apparel’s 1301GD gament-dyed t-shirt or Champion’s CCD100, as they are the same weight as the Comfort Colors C1717. Something to be aware of is that the  CCD100 does have a small Champion “c” logo on the sleeve, so if you prefer a truly blank garment, then we suggest going with the 1301GD. That is, if the color selection meets your needs, as this shirt is offered in a minimal color palette. 

COMFORT COLORS’ COLORS

If a plethora of rich, deep colors is what grabs your attention about Comfort Colors, then ComfortWash by Hanes’ apparel and Port & Company’s Beach Wash™ collection have the best nature-inspired shades that are similar to those of Comfort Colors’ color selection.

COMFORT COLORS FIT

Comfort Color tees are also known for the generous fit they provide. These tees are a unisex cut so that everyone can enjoy them! The classic, boxy cut vs. the more fitted, retail fit that we often see lately really sets Comfort Colors tees apart. You can easily size up to get an oversized fit that is still proportional in all the right areas. The SHGD from Shaka Wear checks the heavyweight, garment-dyed and oversized boxes – but is a bit heftier in size and weight compared to the C1717. If you like the durability and versatility in size of the C1717, but do not care too much about the garment-dyed material, the Gildan Hammer tee is an excellent alternative.

Tees Comparable to Comfort Colors’ C1717 

(6 oz – 100% USA ringspun cotton – S–4XL)

Shirt pictured: Comfort Colors C1717 Adult Heavyweight T-Shirt in “Sage.”

If you like the Comfort Colors C1717:

1. M&O 6500M (4.8 oz – 100% ringspun cotton – S–3XL) 

2. District DT2101 – Wash™ collection (5.3 oz – 100% combed ringspun cotton – XS–4XL)

3. ComfortWash by Hanes GDH100 (5.5 oz – 100% ringspun cotton – XS–3XL) *MOST SIMILAR*

4. Port & Company PC099 – Beach Wash™ collection (5.5 oz – 100% ringspun cotton – S–4XL) *MOST SIMILAR*

5. American Apparel 1301GD (6 oz – 100% USA cotton – S–3XL) *MOST SIMILAR*

6. Champion CCD100 (6 oz – 100% cotton – S–3XL) *MOST SIMILAR*

7. Shaka Wear SHGD (7.5 oz – 100% USA cotton – XS–5XL)
    

Comparable Eco-Friendly Tees 

Shirt pictured: econscious’ EC1000 Unisex Classic Short-Sleeve T-Shirt in “Beehive”.

T-shirts made using sustainable practices and materials are increasingly in demand. Featuring recycled and organic materials, or both, you can trust that these shirts are the eco-friendly garment you’ve been looking for! Some brands feature solely eco-conscious products, such as Allmade and econscious. Other brands have individual styles or collections that have an eco element, such as District’s Re-Tee® line. So jump on the eco-friendly fashion train for your next t-shirt haul. 

COMPARABLE ECO-FRIENDLY 100% COTTON STYLES:

1. Bella+Canvas 3020 (4.2 oz – 100% airlume combed and ringspun organic cotton – SM–2XL)

2. econscious EC1075 (4.4 oz – 100% organic ringspun cotton – S-2XL)

3. econscious EC1000 (5.5 oz – 100% organic ringspun cotton – S–2XL)

4. econscious EC1070 (5.5 oz – 100% recycled cotton carded ringspun jersey – XS–2XL)

COMPARABLE ECO-FRIENDLY BLENDS:

1. Bella+Canvas 3001ECO (4.2 oz – 60% recycled polyester + 35% recycled airlume combed and ringspun cotton – XS–3XL)

2. Next Level 4210 (4.3 oz – 30% recycled cotton + 30% cotton + 40% polyester – XS–3XL)

3. US Blanks US2000R (4.3 oz – 50% recycled cotton + 50% recycled polyester – S–2XL)

4. Allmade AL2300 (4.5 oz – 50% recycled cotton + 50% post-consumer recycled polyester – XS–4XL)

5. econscious EC1080 (4.5 oz – 50% organic cotton + 50% recycled polyester – S–2XL)

6. Kastlfel K2010 (4.6 oz – 60% combed ringspun certified organic cotton + 40% certified recycled polyester)

7. District DT8000 (5.3 oz – 54% recycled cotton + 40% recycled polyester + recycled 6% rayon – XS–4XL)

8. Next Level 4600 (5.6 oz – 60% organic cotton + 40% recycled polyester – XS–3XL)
    

Shirt pictured: Allmade AL2004 Unisex Tri-Blend Tee in “Olive You Green”. 

COMPARABLE ECO-FRIENDLY TRI BLENDS:

1. Alternative AA1973 (4.1 oz – 43.75% polyester + 6.25% recycled polyester + 31.75% cotton + 6.25% organic cotton + 12% rayon – XS-3XL)

2. Allmade AL2004 (4.2 oz – 50% recycled polyester + 25% organic ringspun cotton + 25% modal – XS-4XL)

3. Hanes 42TB (4.5 oz – 60% recycled polyester + 30% USA ringspun cotton + 10% rayon – S–3XL)

Comparable 100% Polyester Shirts That Feel Just Like Cotton

Sublimation printers yield the best results when opting for 100% polyester. With polyester material often having an athletic look and feel, this can be quite limiting when it comes to the type of custom-decorated apparel you can sublimate. Luckily, there are some shirts on the blank wholesale t-shirt market that are made from polyester but still have that comfy cotton feel that many prefer for everyday wear. These cotton-feel polyester tees often have everyone fooled that they are, in fact, made from 100% polyester. But please remember that polyester isn’t all that bad. Benefits of 100% polyester fabrics compared to cotton include moisture-wicking properties, less wrinkling, and resistance to shrinkage. 

Also, remember that colored garments distort color sublimation prints, so white is usually best for colorful designs and logos. If your design only uses black ink, a lighter-colored garment will still work. These tees listed below are very similar in feel but vary slightly in construction measurements, fabric weight, and the sizes and colors offered.

Although the tees listed below are all adult unisex cuts, there are alternative options as well. Sublivie’s entire t-shirt collection is made from this same material, with ladies’, youth and toddler versions available, too. Sport-Tek’s Cotton Touch™ collection includes ladies’, youth and adult long-sleeve options – and even a beanie! Gildan’s performance® line extends to both women’s and youth versions, but be aware that only the styles with “G420” in the style code feature cotton-like polyester fabric. For the Jerzees DRI-POWER® collection, the tee also comes in an adult long-sleeve style.

COTTON-FEEL POLYESTER T-SHIRTS:

1. Sublivie S1910 (4.5 oz – 100% polyester jersey knit – S–3XL)

2. Sport-Tek ST450 – Cotton Touch™ collection (4.7 oz – 100% polyester jersey knit – S–3XL)

3. Gildan G420 – Performance® collection (5 oz – 100% polyester jersey knit – S–3XL)

4. Jerzees 21M – DRI-POWER® collection (5.3 oz – 100% polyester – XS–4XL)

Conclusion: Choosing the Right T-Shirt for Your Needs

Thank you for reading our t-shirt brand comparison, featuring top styles and their closest options. Do you have a favorite t-shirt that didn’t make this article? Feel free to share in the comments, and we will respond with some comparable styles! Additionally, if you are hoping to compare color more than style, check out our color comparison guide, which explores comparing and contrasting the color charts of Bella+Canvas, Gildan and Hanes.  
 

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• Types of T-Shirt Materials

• T-Shirt Fabric Guide 101

• Our Softest T-Shirts to the Touch on the Wholesale Market Today

• What is a Premium T-Shirt?

• What is a CVC Fabric T-Shirt?

• What Does it Take to Create “Eco-Friendly” Clothes? (Allmade is Changing the Industry)

• 10 Things To Love About The Gildan G500 T-Shirt

• 5 Reasons We Love the Bella+Canvas 3001C

• The Bella+Canvas 3001C vs. 3001CVC T-Shirt