Finding the best T-shirt brands for your business is more than just slapping a logo on a tee. Whether for team uniforms, event swag or company gifts, the right T-shirt speaks volumes about your brand.
With the custom T-shirt printing market hitting $5.09 billion in 2022 and projected to reach $14.81 billion by 2032, there are tons of options out there. That’s why, in this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know, from fabric quality and fit to durability and printability, so you can confidently choose the perfect tee for your brand.
- Learn about the ways you can use branded T-shirts to boost visibility, foster team spirit and generate customer loyalty.
- Figure out the key factors to pay attention to when making a decision about the best T-shirt brands for your business’ customized T-shirts.
- Check out the ten best T-shirt brands, how they compare against each other and which one is best for your specific business needs.
How and why should businesses use custom T-shirts?
Custom T-shirts aren’t just another piece of fabric—they’re a powerhouse marketing tool that can boost visibility, foster team spirit and generate customer loyalty. From outfitting your employees to delighting customers with memorable giveaways, branded T-shirts can work wonders for businesses of all sizes.
Let’s dive into how businesses can harness the full potential of custom tees and why they’re more than just a fashionable choice:
Employee uniforms: Branded T-shirts provide a consistent, polished look across your workforce. Whether your team works retail, manages events or handles daily operations, custom tees ensure everyone is on-brand and easy to spot. A study from Cornell Hospitality Quarterly revealed that employee uniforms, including branded apparel, can enhance job satisfaction by fostering a sense of team identity and pride.
Team-building activities and special events: Branded T-shirts are great for company outings, team-building events or special milestones. They create a sense of unity, make for memorable photo ops and can commemorate significant achievements like anniversaries.
Attire for corporate events and trade shows: Attending a trade show or a corporate event? Use promotional T-shirts to create a unified, professional appearance, making your brand easily recognizable. This boosts brand perception, builds customer trust and improves interactions with attendees and potential clients.
Source: Custom T-shirts for trade shows via VistaPrint
Products for promotional giveaways: Customized T-shirts make for excellent promotional giveaways. According to VistaPrint’s report on promotional products, 36% of Americans consider T-shirts their favorite promotional item to receive, and 47% of consumers keep them for two years or longer, ensuring long-term visibility for your brand.
Customer gifts and loyalty builders: Gifting branded T-shirts can strengthen relationships with customers. VistaPrint’s report shows that 44% of customers have visited additional business locations, and 43% have recommended the brand to others after receiving promotional items like T-shirts, boosting loyalty and engagement.
Source: via the VistaPrint Report on Promotional Products Trends
Increased brand visibility and recognition: Custom T-shirts turn employees, customers and partners into walking billboards. According to VistaPrint’s report, 74% of American consumers keep promotional products and use them regularly, ensuring your brand stays visible and recognized for years.
Cost-effective marketing: Compared to traditional advertising like print or digital campaigns, promotional T-shirts provide lasting marketing at a fraction of the cost. According to ASI Central, 47% of consumers keep their T-shirts for two years or longer, delivering continuous advertising each time someone wears them.
Merchandise for sale: By selling branded T-shirts as merchandise, businesses can increase brand awareness and boost sales.
Factors to consider when choosing your custom T-shirts
When picking the right T-shirts for your custom branding, the first step is knowing what you want to achieve. Are you aiming for corporate merchandise, event attire or uniforms for your team? Each purpose has its own set of needs.
In this section, we’ll walk you through the key factors to consider when choosing a T-shirt brand for your business.
Fabric type
The fabric of your T-shirt will impact comfort, durability and overall feel. Here’s a quick breakdown of common fabric types:
| Fabric type | Softness | Durability | Breathability | Best for |
| 100% cotton | Very soft | Moderate | High | Everyday wear, merchandise |
| Polyester | Moderate | High | Low | Athletic wear, uniforms |
| Cotton/Poly blend | Soft | High | Moderate | Versatile use, event attire |
Customization options
Not all fabrics handle customization the same way. If you’re planning on screen printing, cotton is ideal. On the other hand, polyester works better with digital printing or embroidery.
Ensure the fabric you choose supports the method you’ll use for your design. Check out our guide to types of printing on T-shirts for more information.
Durability and versatility
When choosing branded T-shirts, focus on durability and versatility to ensure they last and get worn often:
- Construction quality: Opt for T-shirts with solid stitching and thicker fabric (5-6 oz) to withstand frequent wear and washing.
- Comfort: Ensure the fabric is soft and breathable. If T-shirts are uncomfortable, they won’t get worn, reducing brand exposure.
- Post-wash durability: Look for pre-shrunk cotton or polyester blends that maintain shape and color after washing. Avoid fabrics that need special care.
- Versatility: Choose designs that work across multiple uses, such as uniforms, giveaways and event merch, to maximize your investment.
Brand reputation
It’s always wise to do a little homework on the T-shirt brand before making a choice. Check out customer reviews and industry ratings to understand their reliability. A trusted T-shirt brand with a solid track record means fewer headaches down the road because no one wants to deal with poor quality or late deliveries.
Source: Branded T-shirt for trade show event via VistaPrint
Best T-shirt brands to choose for your business
With so many T-shirt brands, finding the perfect one for your business can feel like a bit of a maze. Whether you’re after affordable basics, high-end comfort or eco-conscious choices, we’ve narrowed down the top brands that deliver on quality and style.
Fruit of the Loom: The best T-shirt brand if you’re on a budget
Fruit of the Loom has been a household name for decades, known for its reliable, budget-friendly options that don’t compromise on quality.
Source: Customized Fruit of the Loom T-shirt via VistaPrint
Key characteristics:
- Material: 100% cotton or cotton/polyester blends for softness and durability.
- Fabric weight: Typically 5-6 oz, providing a sturdy, everyday feel.
- Shrink resistance: Pre-shrunk fabric to minimize shrinking after washing.
- Color retention: Maintains vibrant colors, even after multiple washes.
- Size range: Wide variety of sizes, from youth to plus sizes.
- Affordability: Cost-effective, especially for bulk orders.
Popular styles of Fruit of the Loom T-shirts:
- Heavy Cotton T-shirts: Great for uniforms or screen printing, offering a sturdy feel.
- Softspun Cotton T-shirts: Softer and more premium, suitable for events or merchandise.
- Performance T-shirts: Moisture-wicking, ideal for active or outdoor use.
Bella+Canvas: The best T-shirt brand for versatility
Bella+Canvas stands out as a premium T-shirt brand that focuses on style, comfort and sustainability. What sets this brand apart is its dedication to producing fashion-forward apparel with a luxurious feel, making it perfect for businesses that want branded T-shirts to have a high-end look. Bella+Canvas is known for its super-soft, ringspun cotton and modern, retail-style fits, elevating the overall appearance of any branded merchandise.
Source: Customized Bella+Canvas T-shirt via VistaPrint
Key characteristics:
- Material: Premium combed and ringspun cotton or tri-blend fabrics for an ultra-soft, smooth feel.
- Fabric weight: Typically lightweight, around 4.2 oz to 4.3 oz, offering a soft, breathable feel while maintaining durability.
- Fit: Modern, tailored fit that flatters all body types with a retail-style look for a more polished appearance.
- Durability: Soft yet durable, these T-shirts maintain their shape and color after multiple washes.
- Sustainability: Eco-friendly production methods, including water-saving dye processes and solar-powered factories.
- Size range: Inclusive sizing from XS to 4XL, available for both men and women.
- Customization: Ideal for high-end screen printing or embroidery, providing a sleek, professional canvas for branding.
Popular styles of Bella+Canvas T-shirts:
- 3001 Unisex Jersey Short Sleeve T-Shirt: A staple known for its softness and clean, retail-ready fit—ideal for professional-looking merchandise or uniforms.
- 3413C Triblend Tee: This style offers an ultra-soft fabric blend of polyester, cotton and rayon, perfect for businesses seeking a more luxurious feel.
- Bella+Canvas Long Sleeve Tees: Stylish and versatile, these tees are great for cooler weather or layering, providing an elevated look while staying comfortable.
Allmade: The best T-shirt brand for sustainability
Allmade is a sustainable T-shirt brand focused on reducing environmental impact through ethical manufacturing practices. Known for using eco-friendly materials like recycled polyester, TENCEL™ Modal from renewable beech trees and organic cotton, Allmade is perfect for businesses that prioritize sustainability. Each shirt helps save water, cut carbon emissions and prevent plastic waste from polluting oceans, all while supporting ethical labor practices.
Source: Custom logo on an Allmade T-shirt via VistaPrint
Key characteristics:
- Material: Super-soft blends made from recycled polyester (from plastic bottles), TENCEL™ Modal and US-sourced organic cotton.
- Sustainability: Each T-shirt prevents up to 6 plastic bottles from entering oceans, reduces water consumption and cuts carbon emissions compared to conventional tees.
- Ethical production: Manufactured in ethical factories that prioritize community development, offering better jobs, education access and environmental protection.
- Fabric weight: Typically around 4.2 oz, providing a balance of softness and durability.
- Durability: Long-lasting and eco-friendly, these shirts maintain comfort and quality through wear and washes.
- Size range: Available in sizes XS to 3XL.
- Fit: Modern, unisex fit designed for comfort and style, with a slightly fitted look.
Popular styles of Allmade T-shirts:
- Allmade Tri-Blend Tee: Soft, eco-conscious fabric blend perfect for sustainable branding.
- Organic Cotton Tee: 100% organic cotton, ideal for businesses seeking a more natural, eco-friendly option.
- Recycled Polyester Tee: Made from recycled plastic bottles, offering a sustainable yet durable option for custom apparel.
Carhartt: The best T-shirt brand for quality and professional appearance
Carhartt is a premium brand known for its durable, heavy-duty workwear, ideal for construction, manufacturing, or physically demanding businesses. While Carhartt T-shirts come at a higher price point, they deliver exceptional quality and longevity, making them worth the investment for tough environments.
Source: Branded Carhartt T-shirt via VistaPrint
Key characteristics:
- Material: Heavyweight cotton or cotton/poly blends for durability and comfort.
- Fabric weight: Typically 6.75 oz or more, providing a rugged feel.
- Durability: Reinforced stitching and long-lasting fabric built for daily wear and tear.
- Comfort: Soft yet tough, ensuring comfort during hard labor.
- Moisture-wicking: Available in select styles for added performance.
- Size range: Wide range of sizes, including plus sizes.
Popular styles of Carhartt T-shirts:
- K87 Workwear Pocket T-shirt: A heavyweight, classic fit with a chest pocket.
- Force® T-shirt: Moisture-wicking, perfect for outdoor or intense work.
Contractor’s Work Pocket T-shirt: Functional with a utility pocket for tools.
Hanes: The best T-shirt brand for comfort
Hanes is a reliable brand known for its comfort, durability and affordability, making it a top choice for custom T-shirts. Its t-shirts are made from quality materials like 100% cotton and moisture-wicking blends, suitable for casual and activewear. The EcoSmart® line offers eco-friendly options made from recycled polyester, reflecting Hanes’ commitment to sustainability.
Source: Custom Hanes T-shirt via VistaPrint
Key characteristics:
- Material: 100% cotton, cotton/poly blends and moisture-wicking fabrics.
- Fabric weight: 5.2 oz to 6.1 oz for casual or heavy-duty use.
- Tagless design: Eliminates tag irritation.
- Eco-friendly: EcoSmart® T-shirts made from recycled materials.
- Moisture-wicking: X-Temp® line for temperature regulation.
- Softness: Ringspun cotton options for a premium feel.
- Size range: Inclusive sizing from youth to plus sizes.
Popular styles of Hanes T-shirts:
- Nano-T®: Lightweight and soft, perfect for merchandise.
- Tagless® T-shirts: Ideal for uniforms with all-day comfort.
- X-Temp®: Great for activewear with moisture control.
- EcoSmart®: Sustainable option without compromising quality.
Gildan: The best T-shirt brand for everyday apparel
Gildan is known for offering durable, budget-friendly T-shirts, making it a favorite for businesses needing reliable, everyday apparel at a low cost. Their T-shirts are designed to handle frequent use, offering great value for the price.
Source: Branded Gildan T-shirt via VistaPrint
Key characteristics:
- Material: Soft, durable cotton or cotton/polyester blends that maintain shape and comfort after multiple washes.
- Fabric weight: Typically 5.3 to 6 oz, providing a sturdy feel suitable for everyday use.
- Fit: Offers a standard fit that works for most body types, providing comfort without being too tight or loose.
- Size range: Inclusive sizing from small to 5XL, accommodating a wide variety of body types.
- Durability: Resists shrinking and fading, even with frequent washing and drying.
- Stitching: Solid construction, though occasional loose threads may appear.
Popular styles of Gildan T-shirts:
- Crew Neck: A classic option for everyday wear, known for comfort and durability.
- Softstyle®: Lighter, ringspun cotton for a softer, more premium feel.
- Performance Tees: Moisture-wicking fabrics, perfect for activewear.
Sport-Tek: The best T-shirt brand for athletic fabrics
Launched in 2004, Sport-Tek specializes in athletic wear with high-performance fabrics that wick moisture, control odor and come in vibrant, long-lasting colors. Designed for men, women, and youth, these T-shirts are ideal for sports teams or active businesses that need durable, breathable apparel with excellent printability. Their PosiCharge technology ensures logos stay sharp and colors resist fading.
Source: Promotional Sport-Tek T-shirt via VistaPrint
Key Characteristics:
- Material: Moisture-wicking fabrics that manage sweat and odor.
- Durability: Built for frequent use and washing, with colors that stay vibrant.
- Fabric weight: Lightweight, typically around 3.8 to 4.1 oz, ensuring breathability and comfort during physical activity.
- Printability: PosiCharge technology prevents logo fading and bleeding.
- Size range: Inclusive sizing for men, women and youth.
- Color variety: Bold colors designed to last through wear and wash.
Popular styles of Sport-Tek T-Shirts:
- PosiCharge Competitor Tee: Lightweight and moisture-wicking, perfect for team uniforms.
- RacerMesh Tee: Breathable mesh fabric for maximum ventilation.
- Sport-Wick Stretch Tee: Moisture control with added stretch for comfort.
District: The best T-shirt brand for trendy styles
Launched in 2012 and revamped in 2018, District offers trendy, affordable fashion basics for younger, style-conscious audiences. Known for combining style with safety, the District ensures all products meet or exceed CPSIA standards, providing documentation of conformity for items produced after November 12, 2018.
Source: Custom District T-shirt via VistaPrint
Key characteristics:
- Material: Soft cotton, cotton/poly blends and tri-blend fabrics that meet CPSIA safety standards.
- Fabric weight: Lightweight (4.3 oz) to midweight (5.4 oz) for versatility.
- Fit: Slim, fashion-forward fits for younger, trend-conscious customers.
- Durability: Retains shape and softness after regular washing.
- Safety standards: Compliant with CPSIA regulations for safe manufacturing.
- Size range: XS to 4XL, with options for men and women.
Popular styles of District T-shirts:
- District Very Important Tee® (DT6000): Lightweight with a modern fit.
- Perfect Tri® Tee: Super-soft tri-blend fabric, ideal for casual wear.
- Women’s Fitted V-Neck: Flattering slim-fit design for women’s apparel.
Next Level: The best T-shirt brand for sublimation printing
Founded in 2003, Next Level is known for providing high-quality T-shirts, especially popular for their ability to handle sublimation printing well. This brand is focused on sustainability, moving to 100% U.S.-grown cotton and recycled polyester in its products. Next Level combines eco-friendly practices with great fabric quality, making it a top choice for businesses seeking premium and sustainable apparel.
Source: Custom Next Level T-shirt via VistaPrint
Key characteristics:
- Material: Uses 100% U.S.-grown cotton and is transitioning to 100% recycled polyester for blends.
- Sustainability: Committed to eco-friendly efforts, including sustainable sourcing and environmentally certified facilities.
- Fabric weight: Lightweight, around 4.3 oz, providing a soft and breathable feel.
- Durability: Retains softness and shape after many washes, ideal for sublimation printing.
- Size range: Available in sizes XS to 3XL.
- Fit: Modern, retail-style fit that’s comfortable and flattering.
Popular styles of Next Level T-shirts:
- Next Level 3600: A soft, lightweight, 100% cotton tee with a retail fit.
- Next Level 6210: Cotton/poly blend crew, durable and soft, great for sublimation.
- Next Level 6610: Fitted ladies’ tee, offering a tailored and comfortable fit.
The best T-shirt brands in a comparison chart
If you’re still unsure which brand is best for your business, we’ve listed them all below in a chart to help you avoid scrolling!
| Brand | Key characteristics | Best for | Material |
| Fruit of the Look | Budget-friendly, durable cotton/poly blends, pre-shrunk for shrink resistance, color retention | Everyday wear, bulk orders, affordable uniforms | Cotton/poly blends |
| Bella+Canvas | Premium, ringspun cotton, eco-conscious, retail-style fit | Premium branding, stylish uniforms, eco-friendly businesses | Ringspun cotton, tri-blend fabrics |
| Allmade | Sustainable, made from recycled polyester, organic cotton, ethical manufacturing | Sustainable branding, eco-conscious businesses | Recycled polyester, TENCEL™, organic cotton |
| Carhartt | Heavy-duty, rugged cotton, reinforced stitching, ideal for physically demanding jobs | Physically demanding jobs, construction, manufacturing uniforms | Heavyweight cotton, cotton/poly blends |
| Hanes | Comfortable, tagless options, eco-friendly (EcoSmart®), moisture-wicking | Casual wear, uniforms, sustainable branding | 100% cotton or cotton/poly blends |
| Glidan | Affordable, durable cotton/poly blends, standard fit, resists shrinking and fading | Promotional giveaways, everyday apparel, bulk orders | Cotton/poly blends |
| Sport-Tek | Moisture-wicking, breathable, durable fabrics for activewear, PosiCharge® technology | Sports teams, athletic uniforms, activewear | Moisture-wicking fabrics |
| District | Fashion-forward, trendy, meets CPSIA safety standards, slim fit | Younger audiences, fashion-conscious branding, trendy promotions | Cotton/poly blends, tri-blend fabrics |
| Next Level | High-quality, eco-friendly, ideal for sublimation, soft cotton/poly blends | Sublimation printing, high-quality branding, sustainable apparel | U.S.-grown cotton, recycled polyester |
Create a custom T-shirt for your business
Choosing the right T-shirt brand for your custom company tees is more than just a style decision—it can have a major impact on your brand’s visibility, team spirit and even how your company aligns with its values.
By carefully weighing your needs, be it budget, fabric quality or eco-conscious options, you can make an informed decision that serves your company’s goals.
