What brand of T-shirts is the best quality?

By Ross Bielema

We all have that one T-shirt. The one you reach for first, even when it’s buried at the bottom of the drawer. It’s soft. It fits just right. And it still looks good after countless spins through the wash.

That’s quality.

For businesses, schools and teams ordering in bulk, finding high-quality custom T-shirts is about more than comfort—it’s about making sure your brand is represented the right way. A premium shirt can elevate your look, ensure your message lasts and deliver the kind of fit people actually want to wear.

So what makes a T-shirt “the best”? And which brands actually live up to the hype—for both men’s and women’s custom T-shirts? Let’s explore.

What is a premium quality T-shirt?

The word premium gets thrown around a lot. But in T-shirts, it actually means something.

Premium shirts are defined by the quality of the materials—ringspun cotton, combed yarns, tri-blends with a buttery-soft feel—but that’s just the beginning. The stitching tells another story: Look for shoulder taping that prevents sagging, hems that lie flat and seams that hold their shape over time.

Fit matters too. Premium T-shirts tend to have a more tailored cut, cleaner drape and modern sizing. It’s not about squeezing into something slim—it’s about a shirt that complements the body instead of hanging off it.

So what do these high-end details really look like?

• Fabric type: Ringspun or combed cotton offers a smoother finish than open-end cotton. Tri-blends provide extra softness and stretch.
• Stitching: Double-needle hems and shoulder-to-shoulder taping improve structure and shape retention.
• Fit and cut: Premium shirts often have a more modern silhouette, giving wearers a polished look.
• Color and finish: High-end shirts use reactive dyes and soft washes that improve comfort and preserve color.

Retail brands like Bella+Canvas^® and Alternative^® have mastered the balance between form and feel. These high-quality brands aren’t just popular in stores—they’re among the most requested options in 4imprint’s custom T-shirt lineup. Why? Because they hold up, they print beautifully and people ask for them by name.

How can you tell if a T-shirt is high quality?

You can usually tell the moment you pick it up.

A high-quality T-shirt has a certain weight—not heavy, but substantial. The fabric doesn’t feel flimsy or scratchy. If you hold it up to the light, you shouldn’t see straight through. Press your hand along the stitching and you’ll notice how smooth and reinforced the seams feel.

But if you’re shopping online—or ordering in bulk—what should you look for in the specs?

Here’s a quick checklist:

• Fabric weight: Look for midweight options (5-6 oz.) for balanced comfort and durability.
• Thread count: Higher thread counts result in tighter, smoother weaves—ideal for screen printing.
• Fit retention: Check if the shirt is preshrunk or enzyme-washed to help reduce post-wash surprises.
• Customer reviews: Let real-world feedback guide you—especially for print quality, sizing accuracy and post-wash performance.
• Certifications: OEKO-TEX^® and similar standards indicate quality and safety in materials.

Of course, the true test comes after a few washes. A shirt that still fits well, keeps its color and doesn’t twist at the seams? That’s a keeper.

“This t-shirt is so soft and comfortable. The colors are bright and do not fade after washing”
— A jersey-knit fabric T-shirt product review provided by customer

Even among the top 10 T-shirt brands in the world, it’s often the little things—clean necklines, thoughtful shaping, fade resistance—that separate “just OK” from “exceptional.”

What brand of T-shirts is the best quality for men?

Let’s talk comfort, fit and toughness.

For men, T-shirts tend to fall into three key categories: performance, workwear and everyday casual. Each requires different features—and a few trusted brands consistently rise to the top.

Carhartt^® is a standout for durability. These shirts are built like gear, not garments. Thick fabric, strong seams and relaxed fits make them ideal for trade crews or field staff. If the job’s rough, Carhartt’s up for it.

Prefer moisture-wicking fabric that can handle heat and movement? Under Armour^® delivers. These shirts don’t just stay dry—they’re designed to move with the body, making them a go-to for sports teams, fitness staff and outdoor events.

Then there’s the trusty Gildan^® Ultra Cotton. It’s a workhorse: budget-friendly, easy to size across groups and sturdy enough to last. Sometimes that’s exactly what you need.

“The artwork and the printing were very good quality. The t-shirts are a nice weight and feel. We purchased them as a fundraising gift and they are very nice! Came faster than originally promised so that was good too!! Great first experience with 4imprint!”
— Gildan Ultra Cotton T-shirt product review provided by customer

What brand of T-shirts is the best quality for women?

For women’s T-shirts, fit and feel often matter even more.

District^® and New Era^® brands consistently earn high marks for softness and silhouette. These shirts offer a flattering cut that doesn’t cling or bunch, along with fabrics that feel lived-in from day one.

Bella+Canvas^® makes the list again here—their tailored women’s styles balance softness with a more refined fit, making them popular for retail-inspired branded apparel.

When you want a classic shape and broader size range, Port & Company^® is a versatile choice. It offers a good balance of value and comfort, especially for events or programs with diverse audiences.

If you’re trying to impress with retail-level style, Life is Good^® shirts are a top-tier option. Their modern cuts and luxe fabric blends consistently win compliments.

How to choose the best T-shirt brand for your group

Ultimately, it depends on your priorities:

• Need durability for work crews or outdoor events? Go with Carhartt^® or Gildan^®.
• Want comfort that lasts through fitness sessions or warm-weather wear? Choose Under Armour^® or tri-blend options.
• Looking for soft, retail-quality shirts people will actually wear again? Try Bella+Canvas, District^® or Life is Good^®.

And if you’re still not sure, don’t sweat it. At 4imprint, our team is happy to recommend the best brand for your budget, goals and audience. You’ll also get:

• Free e-proofs and expert design support
• Price breaks at multiple quantity tiers
• Fast turnaround with an on-time guarantee
• A 360° Guarantee_® that covers satisfaction, pricing and delivery

The right T-shirt isn’t just a promo item. It’s a walking endorsement of your brand. With our help, you can make sure it’s a great one.