Executive Summary
If you’ve ever shopped for blank T-shirts, hoodies, or everyday basics, you’ve probably come across Gildan and Next Level. Both are big names in the apparel world, trusted by millions of people who want quality, comfort, and value. But when it comes to Gildan vs Next Level, which brand should you choose for your everyday wardrobe or custom printing needs?
This guide breaks it all down, from fabric feel and sizing to durability and pricing, so you can make the right choice whether you’re shopping for men, women, or kids.
Gildan and Next Level – At a Glance
In 2024, the market for custom T-shirt printing was estimated to be worth USD 4.87 billion and is projected to increase to USD 5.23 billion by 2025.
In today’s thriving apparel market, finding the perfect blank T-shirt or hoodie means balancing comfort, durability, and price. Whether you’re buying for personal wear, bulk printing, or retail, Gildan vs Next Level often becomes the big question. Both brands dominate the blank apparel space, one known for budget-friendly basics and the other for luxury softness at affordable prices. In this guide, we break down every detail, from fabric feel and construction to printing compatibility, so you can confidently pick the brand that fits your style, needs, and budget.
Key Takeaways
- Gildan Activewear offers affordable, durable, and pre-shrunk cotton T-shirts, ideal for bulk printing, uniforms, and events.
- Next Level Apparel focuses on ringspun cotton, CVC, and tri-blend fabrics for soft, modern, and fashion-forward fits.
- Fabric quality: Gildan is thicker and more durable; Next Level feels lighter and smoother.
- Fit: Gildan provides a relaxed, boxy cut, while Next Level offers a tailored, side-seamed silhouette.
- Durability: Gildan maintains shape and color longer; Next Level prioritizes comfort and drape.
- Price: Gildan remains the budget winner, while Next Level justifies its slightly higher price with premium feel and modern style.
- Best for printing: Both perform well in screen printing, DTG, and DTF, with Next Level offering smoother surfaces for detailed designs.
- Pro Tip: Many wholesalers and retailers stock both brands to serve different customer segments, Gildan for cost-effectiveness and Next Level for premium retail appeal.
Why Choosing Between Gildan and Next Level Really Matters
When you’re picking a T-shirt or hoodie, you’re not just buying fabric; you’re investing in comfort, quality, and style that you’ll wear often.
Comfort Comes First
When you’re picking a T-shirt or hoodie, you’re not just buying fabric; you’re investing in comfort, quality, and style that you’ll wear often.
Avoid Scratchy Fabrics
A stiff, scratchy shirt can ruin your whole day by making you uncomfortable from the start.
Watch Out for Shrinkage
A shirt that shrinks after two washes isn’t just disappointing—it’s a waste of money and effort.
Fit Matters
A poorly fitted hoodie might look great on the hanger but will likely stay in your closet if it doesn’t feel right.
That’s why comparing Gildan vs Next Level T-shirts is worth it. Both brands offer strong choices, but their differences could change your buying decision.
What is Gildan Known For?
As Vivienne Westwood once said:
“Fashion is very important. It is life-enhancing and, like everything that gives pleasure, it is worth doing well.”
Gildan has been around since 1984 while offering life-enhancing options to its customers. It is one of the largest apparel manufacturers in the USA. They’re famous for:
Affordable Prices
They are great for bulk orders and custom printing, helping you save while maintaining quality.
Durable Basics
They are built to handle heavy use and stay in good shape even after frequent wear and washes.
Wide Variety
They come in a wide range of sizes and colors, making it easy to find the perfect fit and style for everyone.
From Gildan Hammer Tees to classic crew necks and hoodies, the brand appeals to anyone looking for budget-friendly, long-lasting apparel.
Gildan is best for affordability, durability, and bulk blank T-shirts.
What is Next Level Apparel Known For?
Next Level is a newer brand, but quickly gained popularity among those who want premium basics without breaking the bank. They’re recognized for:
Softer Fabrics
They use combed ringspun cotton and CVC blends for a smoother, softer feel against the skin.
Modern Fits
They offer modern silhouettes that flatter men, women, and youth alike.
Versatile Style
They are great for fashion retail or anyone looking to elevate their casual wear.
Their Next Level unisex cotton t-shirt and CVC T-shirts are especially popular for printing because of the smooth, soft finish.
Next Level is best for softness, fashion-forward fits, and premium basics for men.
Gildan vs Next Level Fabric Quality: Which Feels Better?
When it comes to fabric, comfort is king.
- Gildan fabrics: Typically made from 100% cotton or cotton/poly blends, sturdy and slightly thicker. Good for durability.
- Next Level fabrics: Use ringspun cotton and CVC blends, which feel softer and lighter on the skin.
Next Level fabrics feel softer, while Gildan fabrics are thicker and more durable.
How Do Gildan and Next Level Fit and Style Compare?
Fit makes all the difference when you wear basics daily.
Gildan Fit
It offers a more traditional, relaxed, and boxy shape that works well for everyday wear, uniforms, or unisex printing.
Next Level Fit
It features a slimmer, tailored, and more fashionable cut that appeals to younger shoppers and those who prefer modern styling.
Durability: Which Brand Lasts Longer?
Gildan Durability
It is known for lasting through repeated washes without falling apart, and its colors hold up remarkably well over time.
Next Level Durability
It maintains its shape nicely, though its softer fabrics may wear slightly faster than Gildan’s sturdier material.
Gildan shirts are slightly more durable, while Next Level prioritizes softness.
Price Comparison Gildan vs Next Level
When shopping, cost often drives decisions.
Gildan Pricing
It is budget-friendly and often cheaper in bulk, making it the go-to choice for events, schools, or businesses.
Next Level Pricing
It costs more than Gildan but remains affordable compared to retail fashion brands, offering extra softness and style for the price.
| Feature | Gildan Activewear | Next Level Apparel |
| Founded | 1984 | 2003 |
| Best For | Bulk printing, uniforms, events, and everyday basics | Fashion-forward retail wear, premium casuals |
| Fabric Type | 100% cotton or 50/50 cotton-poly blends | Ringspun cotton, CVC (60/40 or 65/35) blends, tri-blends |
| Fabric Weight | ~5.3 oz (180 GSM) | ~4.3 oz (145 GSM) |
| Texture & Feel | Thicker, sturdy, slightly coarse | Softer, smoother, lightweight |
| Fit & Silhouette | Classic, relaxed, tubular construction | Modern, tailored, side-seamed |
| Popular Models | Gildan 5000, Gildan Hammer | Next Level 3600, Next Level CVC |
| Label Type | Standard sewn-in labels | Tear-away labels (rebrand-friendly) |
| Durability | Highly durable; retains shape and color after many washes | Great comfort; slightly less durable due to lightweight fabric |
| Shrinkage | Minimal (pre-shrunk cotton) | Very low (blended fabrics resist shrinkage) |
| Printing Compatibility | Excellent for screen printing, DTG, DTF | Superior ink absorption; smooth surface reduces print bleeding |
| Comfort Level | Comfortable for daily wear; more utilitarian | Premium comfort; soft cotton tee feel |
| Price Range | More affordable, ideal for bulk orders | Slightly higher, but still cost-effective for retail quality |
| Target Buyers | Schools, teams, businesses, promotional wear | Fashion brands, designers, and retail stores |
| Availability | Widely available through wholesalers & online | Available through select distributors & online |
| Rebrand Options | Moderate | High – tear-away labels & retail finish |
| Overall Strength | Best value for durability and affordability | Best choice for softness, drape, and modern style |
Real World Scenarios: Which Should You Pick?
Custom Printing and Bulk Orders
When it comes to selecting shirts that offer exceptional value without compromising on quality, Gildan emerges as the premier choice in the market. These shirts (both Gildan and Next Level) are versatile enough to suit a multitude of occasions, ranging from corporate events and fundraisers to casual outings and work uniforms. Gildan provides a budget-friendly solution that does not skimp on reliability, guaranteeing that your investment yields significant returns.
Constructed from high-quality materials, Gildan shirts boast a soft, comfortable feel against the skin, making them perfect for all-day wear. Additionally, their fabric serves as an excellent canvas for vibrant, attention-grabbing prints, allowing your unique designs to stand out and leave a lasting impression. Whether you need apparel for branding your business or stylish outfits for your team, Gildan shirts represent the ideal combination of affordability and superior craftsmanship.
Things to Consider Before Buying:
Purpose
It suits different goals as Gildan works best for bulk printing, while Next Level is ideal for personal fashion wear.
Budget
It depends on what you need since Gildan offers cheaper bulk options, while Next Level provides a premium feel at a higher price.
Comfort
It varies by preference because Gildan feels sturdy, whereas Next Level delivers a softer touch.
Fit
It comes down to style as Gildan has a relaxed cut, while Next Level offers a more tailored silhouette.
Bonus Point
Many businesses stock both brands to meet diverse customer needs and preferences.
Note
Availability can vary depending on online retailers and wholesalers, so check before placing large orders.
Disclaimer
Comfort and value are subjective, so it’s best to try both brands before committing to bulk purchases.
Technical Comparison: Details Buyers Should Know
When comparing blank apparel from Gildan Activewear and Next Level Apparel, it helps to look at technical specs often considered in the blank clothing industry.
- Model Numbers: Popular options include the Gildan 5000 (classic fit, preshrunk cotton) and the Next Level 3600 (soft ringspun cotton with a modern retail fit). Both brands also offer tee model numbers for fashion blank tees in various styles.
- Fabric Weight: Gildan’s core tees often weigh around 5.3 oz (180 gsm), while Next Level’s retail-focused shirts, like the 3600, run lighter at about 4.3 oz (145 gsm), giving each a different drape and feel.
- Fabric Blends: Gildan sticks to sturdy 50/50 cotton-poly or 100% cotton, while Next Level uses 60/40 and 65/35 CVC blends and even tri-blend fabrics for a softer, fashion-forward option.
- Fit & Construction: Gildan offers a more classic fit with many tubular designs, while Next Level often uses side-seamed construction for a better retail silhouette. Many Next Level shirts also feature tear-away labels, making them easier to rebrand.
- Durability & Wash Performance: Gildan’s heavier fabrics tend to resist shrinkage and last through more washes, while Next Level focuses on comfort and softness, though lighter fabrics may show more wear over time.
- Print Quality: Both brands are widely used for garment decoration like screen printing, DTG, and DTF. Next Level’s smoother ringspun surface offers stronger ink absorption and less print bleeding, while Gildan provides consistent results at scale.
- Wholesale & Pricing: In the wholesale blanks USA market, Gildan dominates with bulk pricing tiers, making them cost-effective for large orders through almost any supplier or distributor. Next Level, while slightly higher priced, positions itself as a premium vs basic T-shirt choice in the apparel sourcing world.
In short, whether you’re sourcing garment printing blanks for events or choosing fashion blank tees for retail, these details: weight, blends, fit, and label options, help refine your buying decision. US Trade Ent is here to help you buy the best.
Final Words
Choosing between Gildan vs Next Level Apparel comes down to your priorities. If you need cost-effective, durable blank T-shirts for wholesale bulk orders, events, or uniforms, Gildan Activewear is the stronger pick. Their reliable fit, durability, and bulk pricing tiers make them a go-to in the blank clothing industry.
On the other hand, if you’re sourcing fashion blank tees with a softer hand feel, modern retail fit, and features like tear-away labels and side-seamed construction, Next Level Apparel delivers a premium experience at an affordable price. Both brands are available at US Trade Enterprises at affordable prices.
Both brands serve different needs: Gildan excels in affordability and longevity, while Next Level shines in softness, drape, and style. For many buyers, the best solution is to stock both: Gildan for garment printing blanks in bulk and Next Level for fashion-forward retail wear.
FAQs
No, Next Level shirts are generally softer because they use premium ringspun cotton and CVC blends that create a smoother, more luxurious texture. Gildan, on the other hand, offers a sturdier and more traditional cotton feel preferred for durability and bulk printing.
Both brands perform well for screen printing, but Gildan is often preferred for large-scale or budget-friendly projects due to its lower cost and consistent print surface. Next Level, however, is popular among fashion-forward brands that prioritize softness and modern fits.
Both may experience minimal shrinkage after the first wash, but Gildan’s pre-shrunk cotton helps minimize size changes. Next Level’s blended fabrics, especially CVC materials, resist shrinkage even better and maintain their shape over time.
Yes, Next Level shirts are slightly more expensive because they use higher-quality fabrics and have a more fashion-oriented design. However, they’re still far more affordable than retail fashion labels while offering a premium look and feel.
Gildan shirts generally last longer thanks to their thicker fabrics and reinforced construction, making them ideal for uniforms and heavy use. Next Level shirts focus more on softness and comfort, which may lead to slightly faster wear with frequent washing.
Yes, both brands are widely available online and through major distributors across the USA. Many print shops, apparel wholesalers, and e-commerce platforms carry both options for personal and business orders.
Gildan Hammer is made from heavyweight, 100% cotton fabric that feels sturdy and durable, perfect for lasting wear. In contrast, Next Level CVC uses a soft cotton/poly blend that provides a lightweight, smooth, and breathable fit ideal for casual and stylish use.
