As we’ve travelled the galaxy we’ve seen probably a bazillion different t-shirts. (Ok, maybe not a bazillion, but there are a lot to choose from.) These have ranged from cheap in price and quality to out-of-this-world expensive but oh-so-comfy. When it came time to choose what shirts we wanted to offer we decided to narrow it down to just a few preferred styles from companies we trust. Here are the basics on the t-shirts we prefer to use at Porgstar. Individual product listings will tell you which blank is used.
Bella+Canvas 3001
The Bella+Canvas 3001 is one of the best men’s tees for the money we’ve come across. It’s lightweight, breathable, nicely fitted without being tight, and after it’s first wash becomes incredibly soft. The material for most colors is 100% combed and ring-spun cotton. This gives the cotton a tighter weave making the shirt smooth and soft. It also allows for higher quality and consistent printing.
This particular blank is considered a unisex cut, but we’ve found that the sleeves tend to be a bit long for many women and the fairly straight sides can look baggy on certain body types.
Founded in 1992, Bella+Canvas are based in Los Angeles, CA. All of their blanks are cut in the US with assembly being done primarily in Central America. In addition to the awesome feel of the 3001, we like Bella+Canvas because they are committed to maintaining and upholding responsible workplace and environmental standards in all of their production facilities. All US production and office facilities have received Platinum accreditation from WRAP. They only work with partners who share their values of a humane and safe workplace and are in the process of getting all of their international facilities WRAP certified as well. Learn more about Bella + Canvas here.
Gildan 64000
The Gildan 64000 T is a fantastic lightweight men’s tee that we use for our budget minded offerings. It is semi-fitted and has a slightly heavier feel than the Bella+Canvas 3001. The big difference is that the Gildan 64000 is ring-spun but not combed cotton. This leaves a slightly rougher feel than the B+C. We’ve found that printing is sometimes not quite as consistent due to the coarser weave.
This blank is also listed as a unisex tee but like the B+C 3001 the sleeves tend to be a bit long for many women and the fairly straight sides can look baggy on certain body types.
Founded in 1984, Gildan is a Canadian based company with production facilities in the United States and around the world. As one of the larger activewear companies in the world, chances are you already have Gildan apparel in your wardrobe even if it is branded as someone else. Gildan is constantly working to improve conditions for the people, communities, and environment wherever they have a footprint and has earned repeated listings on the DOW Jones Sustainability Index for North American companies. Learn more about Gildan here.
Anvil 880
This is our preferred women’s cut tee-shirt. It is semi-fitted and super soft even before washing. It has a nice sleeve length and is designed to fit will through the waist. The material for most colors is 100% combed and ring-spun cotton. This gives the cotton a tighter weave making the shirt smooth and soft. It also allows for higher quality and consistent printing. This is a lightweight tee and lighter colors may appear slightly see through.
Anvil was originally founded over 130 years ago, which makes it Wookie aged! Owned by Gildan since 2012, Anvil continues to lead the way in high-quality yet affordable sportswear and apparel. As a part of the Gildan family of brands they are committed to sustainability and good stewardship in their communities. Learn more about Anvil here.
Why even list these?
The t-shirts purchased from Porgstar may be branded as Porgstar, but they are actually printed on t-shirt blanks manufactured by a handful of trusted companies. Unlike Porgstar, these companies specialize in apparel intended for custom printing. We’re being transparent about this so you can better know what you are buying from us. If you like t-shirts chances are you already have shirts from some of these companies. If so, you might already be familiar with the fit and finish of the specific shirts we use. Keep in mind that not all shirts from the same company will fit the same. We’ve included links to the companies we use so that you can compare sizing charts across their lines.