Glossary · Material
GSM (fabric weight)
GSM stands for grams per square meter — the weight of a fabric per square meter.
Why it matters
GSM describes fabric mass per unit area and helps compare the weight and potential drape of similar fabrics. The number alone does not prove durability or quality.
GSM is a measurement, not a quality grade. Two fabrics at the same GSM can differ substantially because of fibre, yarn, knit construction, finishing and garment construction.
Higher mass per area can make a fabric feel denser, heavier or more structured, while opacity, breathability and dimensional stability depend on additional properties.
Labels such as light, midweight and heavyweight are useful market categories rather than universally standardised quality classes.
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