--- title: "What does GSM mean and which weight do I need?" description: "GSM means grams per square metre: the weight of one square metre of fabric. It helps compare fabrics of the same kind, but it is not a warmth rating." url: https://mrbalaclava.com/help/fabric-weight-gsm/ language: en-US updated: 2026-10-06T19:31:37+00:00 alternates: fr: https://mrbalaclava.com/fr/help/gsm-grammage-tissu.md de: https://mrbalaclava.com/de/help/gsm-stoffgewicht.md es: https://mrbalaclava.com/es/help/que-significa-gsm-gramaje.md publisher: Mr Balaclava (https://mrbalaclava.com/) --- Fabrics and materials # What does GSM mean and which weight do I need? By the Mr Balaclava team · Updated 2026-10-06 Short answer GSM means grams per square metre: the weight of one square metre of fabric. It helps compare fabrics of the same kind, but it is not a warmth rating. The right weight depends on the fabric and the product, and we confirm the exact GSM with your quote. GSM (grams per square metre) is the weight of one square metre of fabric. One ounce per square yard is about 34 GSM. A higher GSM usually means a thicker fabric of the same kind, but GSM is not a warmth rating: warmth also depends on the fibre and how the fabric is made. ## Weight classes | Weight class | GSM | | --- | --- | | Lightweight | below about 160 GSM | | Midweight | about 160 to 260 GSM | | Heavyweight | above about 260 GSM | There is no fixed rule such as "180 GSM for summer, 300 GSM for winter". The right weight depends on the fabric type, the product and how it will be used. ## What matters for each product - **Balaclavas**: the fabric type and GSM, the stretch, and any mesh or fleece panels. - **Beanies**: the yarn, the stitch, the gauge and whether it is single or double layer. GSM is rarely quoted for knits. - **Scarves**: the fibre, and whether it is knitted or woven. - **Socks**: the yarn blend, the needle count and the cushioned zones. - **Ski wear**: the weight is chosen for each layer. - **Caps and hats**: the fabric type and the structure. ## Examples from our projects - Polyester/spandex stretch jersey (88/12) at 220 to 260 GSM for balaclavas and neck gaiters. - A sublimated face mask at 180 GSM. - A merino balaclava at 260 GSM. - Knitted balaclavas at 320 and 360 GSM. ## Why the fabric sheets show no GSM Weights vary by mill and by order, so we confirm the exact GSM with your quote. Tell us how the product will be used and we suggest a suitable weight. Our [Fabric Weight & GSM Guide](/materials/fabric-weight-gsm-guide/) explains the topic in more detail. Was this article helpful? ## Related articles - [How do I choose the right fabric?](https://mrbalaclava.com/help/choose-fabric/) - [How to use the Material Library](https://mrbalaclava.com/help/material-library-guide/) - [GSM (grams per square metre)](https://mrbalaclava.com/help/glossary-gsm/) - [Are your fabrics and factories certified?](https://mrbalaclava.com/help/certified-materials/) ## Still need help? A real person replies within one working day. Mon–Fri 9:00–18:00 · Sat 10:00–16:00, Pakistan time (UTC+5) - [Send your brief Contact form for quotes and projects](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) - [contact@mrbalaclava.com Best for briefs, artwork and files](mailto:contact@mrbalaclava.com) - [WhatsApp +92 370 7981102 Quick questions and photos](https://wa.me/923707981102)