lightweight vs midweight version explained

Lightweight Vs Midweight Options At Merchize Explained

To meet the diverse needs of customers, Merchize always strives to offer a wide range of options, not only in style but also in materials and pricing. Particularly for high-demand products like Hoodies, Sweatshirts, and Polos, Merchize offers two material choices: Midweight and Lightweight. Each version comes with its own set of advantages, disadvantages, applications, and pricing.

In this article, Merchize will provide interesting insights into the different versions of each product line, highlighting key features and material applications, to help Sellers choose the most suitable product line for their target customers.

All-over Print Hoodies

Hoodies are a must-have for everyone’s wardrobe. This highly versatile item can be worn on different occasions, from going to work, to the gym, to the office, or just simply lounging around the house. In order to make this item suitable for all weather, Merchize has introduced two different versions of the hoodies – Midweight and Lightweight. 

With different materials in use, each option will cater to different usages and weather conditions. 

In the following, we will break down in detail each material’s unique features and ideal usage.

 

Lightweight

Midweight

Products

All-over Print Full Zip Up Hoodie (Lightweight)

All-over Print Gaiter Hoodie (Lightweight)

All-over Print Hoodie (Lightweight)

All-over Print Zip Hoodie (Lightweight)

All-over Print Sleeveless Hoodie (Lightweight)

All-over Print Sleeveless Zip Hoodie (Lightweight)

All-over Print Youth Hoodie (Lightweight)

All-over Print Full Zip Up Hoodie (Midweight)

All-over Print Gaiter Hoodie

All-over Print Hoodie (Midweight)

All-over Print Zip Hoodie (Midweight)

All-over Print Sleeveless Hoodie (Midweight)

All-over Print Sleeveless Zip Hoodie (Midweight)

All-over Print Youth Hoodie (Midweight)

Fabric Type

Brushed Back Fleece

Brushed Back Fleece

Composition

100% polyester

100% polyester

Fabric Weight

190 GSM

260 GSM

Key attribute

Lightweight fabric with slightly brushed fleece back 

Midweight fabric with slightly brushed fleece back

Thickness

Thinner fabric

Thicker fabric 

Weather Suitability

Ideal for moderate climates and transitional seasons

Ideal for colder weather and transitional seasons

Feel and Comfort

Soft but light on the skin

Plush and cozy, cradling the body in warmth for long-duration wear

Durability and Performance

Highly durable

Highly durable

Use Cases

Great for layering, indoor use, and cool weather

Designed to be worn in chillier weather

Pros and Cons

Version

Pros

Cons

Lightweight

  • Breathability: The thinner fabric allows for great airflow, making it ideal for activities or warmer climates. It keeps customers comfortable without causing overheating.
  • Flexibility: Its lighter feel means it’s easy to move in—perfect for athletes or people on the go who don’t want to feel restricted.
  • Perfect for layering: This hoodie can be layered easily under heavier jackets, offering versatile styling without adding bulk.
  • Less Insulation: It’s not designed to keep you warm in colder weather. If customers are looking for serious warmth, they’ll need to layer up or choose the midweight version.
  • Less Coziness: While comfortable, it doesn’t provide the plush, snug feeling of thicker, fleece-lined hoodies like the midweight version.

Midweight

  • Warmth: The thicker fabric with a brushed fleece interior makes it ideal for cooler temperatures. It’s cozy, like wearing a soft, portable blanket.
  • Durability: With a thicker weave, it holds up well against wear and tear, making it suitable for more rugged environments and frequent outdoor use.
  • Comfort: The added weight and soft fleece lining make it super comfy, perfect for those seeking a hoodie that provides both style and function on colder days.
  • Versatile Use: It’s great for layering, but also works as a standalone outerwear piece in fall or winter.
  • Less Breathability: It may feel too warm or stifling in hotter climates or during high-intensity activities. It’s more suitable for cooler weather.
  • Heavier Feel: Some customers may find the added weight and thickness less appealing for casual or activewear, especially if they prefer something more lightweight and minimalist.
  • Design Flexibility: The thicker material can sometimes affect the sharpness of printed designs, especially for more detailed graphics. It doesn’t showcase intricate prints as clearly as lightweight fabric.

Pros and Cons

Version

Pros

Cons

Lightweight

  • Breathability: The thinner fabric allows for great airflow, making it ideal for activities or warmer climates. It keeps customers comfortable without causing overheating.
  • Flexibility: Its lighter feel means it’s easy to move in—perfect for athletes or people on the go who don’t want to feel restricted.
  • Layering: This hoodie can be layered easily under heavier jackets, offering versatile styling without adding bulk.
  • Print Clarity: The thinner fabric surface allows prints and designs to really pop, with sharp edges and vibrant colors.
  • Less Insulation: It’s not designed to keep you warm in cold weather. If customers are looking for serious warmth, they’ll need to layer up or choose the midweight version.
  • Durability in Harsh Conditions: The thinner material may not hold up as well in rough, outdoor environments or over long-term heavy use compared to thicker options.
  • Less Coziness: While comfortable, it doesn’t provide the plush, snug feeling of thicker, fleece-lined hoodies.

Midweight

  • Warmth: The thicker fabric with a brushed fleece interior makes it ideal for cooler temperatures. It’s cozy, like wearing a soft, portable blanket.
  • Durability: With a thicker weave, it holds up well against wear and tear, making it suitable for more rugged environments and frequent outdoor use.
  • Comfort: The added weight and soft fleece lining make it super comfy, perfect for those seeking a hoodie that provides both style and function on colder days.
  • Versatile Use: It’s great for layering, but also works as a standalone outerwear piece in fall or winter.
  • Less Breathability: It may feel too warm or stifling in hotter climates or during high-intensity activities. It’s more suitable for cooler weather.
  • Heavier Feel: Some customers may find the added weight and thickness less appealing for casual or activewear, especially if they prefer something more lightweight and minimalist.
  • Design Flexibility: The thicker material can sometimes affect the sharpness of printed designs, especially for more detailed graphics. It doesn’t showcase intricate prints as clearly as lightweight fabric.

Key differences:

The Lightweight versions are all about flexibility. With the 190 GSM fabric, they are perfect for chill weather, where comfort and ease of movement matter more than heat retention or practicality. Their lightweight, breathable, and soft quality makes them more comfortable to wear, especially when the weather is not too cold or when you are about to warm up with some intense workout or physical activities.

On the other hand, the Midweight hoodie (with its 260 GSM fabric) is designed for when temperatures drop and you crave warmth but still want to look good. That thicker brushed fleece lining feels like a cozy embrace. It keeps the cold at bay while still being stylish and versatile enough for everyday wear.

Which options to choose?

For entrepreneurs in the print-on-demand space, offering both versions unlocks more opportunities.

  • Lightweight: You’re catering to gym-goers, everyday loungewear enthusiasts, and those living in warmer climates. And guess what? Since the fabric is thinner, it’s a great choice for intricate designs. Your customers can show off those detailed prints without them getting swallowed by bulky fabric. It’s also easier to upsell during transitional seasons when people want something light to throw on.
  • Midweight: Meanwhile, the Midweight hoodie is your secret weapon for winter sales. Not only does it appeal to people looking for a warmer option, but it also makes a great gift item for the holiday season. Plus, customers don’t just want warmth—they want comfort. And when they feel how soft and snug these midweight hoodies are, they’ll be hooked. That’s an extra layer of value for your brand—literally and figuratively.

All-over Print Sweatshirt

Besides the hoodies, sweatshirts are another must-have in the day-to-day casual wear. Sweatshirt offers a minimal, simple design that can go well with any other items, outfits, and styles. There is no reason to leave this highly versatile product out of your store catalog.

To have a better understanding of each material, you can refer to the detailed material comparison from the above section.

Which options to choose?

By offering both the lightweight and midweight versions of the sweatshirt, Sellers can cater to a wider audience with different needs:

  • Lightweight Sweatshirt: The lightweight version can be worn around the years, whenever the temperature slightly drops. When the weather is slightly cool, this lightweight sweatshirt can provide decent warmth and coziness to the skin. On the other hand, when it’s getting colder, this sweatshirt can be layered with other items to protect you from the cold.
  • Midweight Sweatshirt: The midweight sweatshirts are suitable for the colder weather. The thicker material with brushed inner feels soft on the skin and provides better insulation and comfort for wearers. It is the perfect addition to the holiday catalogs.

All-over Print Polos

Polos are considered a staple of the classic semi-formal attire. Combined with the creativity and boldness of the all-over print design, our polos make the perfect blank canvas for vibrant, eye-catching designs that stand out in any setting.

All-over print polos offer plenty of room for you to create incredible designs for different purposes and occasions. Whether you’re catering to sports enthusiasts, fashion-forward individuals, or businesses looking for custom branding, all-over print polos offer endless possibilities.

Why sell them? These products are in high demand, thanks to their classic look and universal appeal. Plus, they offer great profit margins in the print-on-demand space, making them a smart investment for your business. From lightweight options for summer days to midweight designs for cooler months, there’s a perfect polo for every customer.

polo lightweight
Lightweight Polo
midweight polo shirt
Midweight Polo
Lightweight Polo - Bird-eye pique fabric
Midweight Polo - Textured pique knit fabric
 

Lightweight

Midweight

Products

All-over Print Men’s Long Sleeve Polo Shirt (Lightweight)

All-over Print Pocket Polo Shirt (Lightweight)

All-over Print Women’s Polo Shirt (Lightweight)

All-over Print Polo Shirt (Lightweight)

All-over Print Men’s Long Sleeve Polo Shirt (Midweight)

All-over Print Pocket Polo Shirt (Midweight)

All-over Print Women’s Polo Shirt (Midweight)

All-over Print Polo Shirt (Midweight)

Fabric Type

Bird-eye pique fabric

Textured pique knit fabric

Composition

100% polyester

95% poly + 5% spandex

Fabric Weight

150 GSM

250 GSM

Key attribute

  • Highly breathable and moisture-wicking with small holes on the surface
  • Lightweight and flowy
  • Unique texture with a raised, waffle-like surface.
  • Heavier, thicker, and more structured material

Weight and Thickness

Flowy, soft, lightweight material

Thicker material that adds structure to the mix.

Climate Suitability

Ideal for hot weather

Ideal for transitional weather or moderately hot days.

Feel and Comfort

Soft to the touch and light on the body. This fabric provides a barely-there feel that’s easy to wear all day. It drapes fluidly, making it unintrusive and versatile.

Plush, yet substantial. The midweight option feels more luxurious, with a bit more heft to give it a premium quality. It envelops the wearer in soft comfort but with more body and presence than the lightweight.

Durability and Performance

Highly durable.

Highly durable and can hold its form over repeated wear and washes.

Use Cases

Slightly more casual and sporty appearance, often used as activewear. Suitable for both casual and semi-formal settings

Works well for both sportswear and business-casual attire, especially in polos, jackets, and sweaters.

Key differences:

The lightweight polos, crafted with bird-eye pique fabric, are the go-to choice for a breezy, laid-back look. The lightweight option, at 150 GSM, gives that ideal balance—breathable, moisture-wicking, and perfect for hot seasons or high-intensity activities. Your customers will love how easy it is to wear, whether they’re enjoying a summer outing or just looking for something to throw on indoors.

The textured pique knit fabric of the midweight polos brings a more substantial feel—at 250 GSM, it’s the shirt for those cooler days or when your customers want their polo to hold a bit more structure. The midweight polo feels more premium and can be a great option for a semi-formal setting. Plus, the added durability is a boon for anyone who values performance over the long haul. With such quality, you can easily price this product at a more premium price bracket.

Version

Pros

Cons

Lightweight

  • Breathability: Bird-eye pique fabric is known for its excellent airflow, making it ideal for summer wear or active wear. The tiny mesh-like texture allows for superior ventilation, keeping the body cool even during hot weather.
  • Flexibility: The fabric has a slight stretch, providing more comfort and freedom of movement. This makes it perfect for sports or casual wear where comfort is key.
  • Quick Drying: Being polyester and lightweight, this material dries quickly, which is excellent for active users or outdoor activities.
  • Durability: Despite being lightweight, polyester adds strength to the fabric, ensuring it withstands frequent wear and washing.
  • Less Insulation: Due to its lightweight nature, this fabric may not provide enough warmth in colder environments, limiting its use to warmer climates or layered outfits.
  • Thinner Feel: Some customers may find the fabric too thin for their liking, as it lacks the heft and structure of heavier options.
  • Static Build-up: Polyester tends to generate more static electricity than natural fibers, which can be an issue in dry environments.

Midweight

  • Balanced Weight: At 250 GSM, this fabric offers a nice balance—thicker than lightweight options but not too bulky.
  • More polished and premium look: The textured pique knit offers a subtle pattern that adds visual interest to the polo. In addition, the heavier weight gives the fabrics more structure, creating a more sophisticated, premium look.
  • Durability: Polyester is known for being tough. This midweight fabric holds up well to frequent wear, washing, and even rough handling, making it long-lasting and suitable for activewear.
  • Versatile Use: Its medium weight and stretch make it suitable for a variety of purposes—from casual daywear to work uniforms—appealing to different market segments. Besides the premium material makes it an ideal option for customers looking for a more polished or formal look.
  • Less Breathability: Being a thicker fabric at 250 GSM, it’s not as breathable as lighter options like bird-eye pique. This might not be the friendliest option for scorching summer days.
  • Reduced Cooling Effect: The thicker material feels heavier and less cool on skins, compared to the lightweight version.
  • Slightly Heavier Feel: Some people might find the midweight feel a bit too heavy for their taste. The added weight can make it less convenient during intense workout sessions.
  • Slightly Less Softness: Like most polyester blends, this fabric might not be as soft to the touch as cotton or cotton blends, which could be a drawback for customers prioritizing softness and comfort over durability.
  • Less Formal Appearance: The texture and weight can make it look more casual than smooth, finer fabrics. This may not appeal to customers looking for a more polished or formal look.

Which options to choose? 

Some shoppers want something ultra-light for high-energy activities while others might look for a more formal look or something they can wear in cooler months. With lightweight and midweight versions, you can cater to all of the above. By having both, your print-on-demand store can appeal to a wider audience and attract more sales.

What’s more, these two options empower your print on demand business. Lightweight polos are perfect during the peak of the summer. The midweight polos, however, can be your steady seller when things get a bit chillier. It’s the ultimate year-round solution—giving your customers an array of choices without complicating your inventory.

4. All-over Print Sweaters

Currently, Merchize only provides the midweight version of the sweaters. Our All-over Print Sweaters uses a unique type of materials – wood blend material. Let’s break down the key features of this material in the table below.

sweater fabric

Product

All-over Print Sweatshirt (Midweight)

Fabric Type

Wood blend fabric

Composition

95% polyester + 5% spandex

Fabric Weight

260 GSM

Key attribute

Midweight knitted fabric

Slightly stretchable

Climate Suitability

Ideal for colder weather.

Feel and Comfort

Soft and plush on the skin.

Durability and Performance

Highly durable 

Use Cases

Suitable for home wear or casual wear. 

Pros and cons

Pros

Cons

Comfortable Stretch: With 3% spandex, the fabric provides a slight stretch, making it more comfortable to wear, especially for activities that require movement or layering.

Soft and Warm: The wool blend offers a soft, cozy feel while keeping the body warm. At 260 GSM, it strikes a balance between warmth and weight, ideal for cooler weather without being too bulky.

Durable: The high polyester content means the fabric is durable and resistant to shrinking, wrinkles, and pilling, ensuring a long-lasting product that can withstand frequent use and washing.

Lightweight Warmth: Despite being a midweight fabric, it provides excellent warmth without adding too much bulk, making it perfect for layering under jackets or coats in colder weather.

Low Maintenance: Unlike pure wool, this wool blend is easier to care for. Polyester reduces the need for delicate handling, allowing for machine washing without the risk of shrinkage or damage common with traditional wool garments.

Less Breathable: Although it provides warmth, the polyester-heavy composition is less breathable than natural fibers like cotton or pure wool.

Not as Soft as Pure Wool: While the wool blend is comfortable, it may lack the luxurious softness of 100% wool or other high-end natural fibers. Some wearers might find it less soft or slightly itchy, especially those with sensitive skin.

Conclusion

The lightweight and midweight versions of each product line each have their own strengths, suited to different needs and situations. Consider the style and target audience to select the right product. Don’t hesitate to try both to experience the difference and find the best option. Explore Merchize’s product catalog now and start fulfilling your orders right away.

is a senior writer at Merchize covering products, services, and consumer tech issues and trends. Previously, she was a content writer for trustworthy brands and International corporations. With her deep knowledge in multiple industries, Bich has become a professional writer and has chosen Merchize to explore eCommerce, MMO, and Print on Demand... In her free time, she loves reading, listening to music, and hanging out at cafes.