Introduction
Great streetwear doesn’t just look good, it feels right. Fabric is the unseen architecture behind every fit. It determines how a hoodie drapes, how a tee breathes, and how long your clothes last. We build our pieces from the ground up, starting with premium fabrics chosen for structure, softness and strength. Here’s a closer look at the materials that define our streetwear and why understanding them is key to dressing with purpose.
Quick Takeaways
- Fabric choice shapes comfort, structure, and longevity in streetwear.
- Cotton and fleece remain the cornerstones of quality design.
- GSM (grams per square metre) measures weight and durability - higher GSM = higher quality.
- Our 260gsm tees and 400gsm hoodies are made to feel substantial, not heavy.
- The science of comfort lies in the balance between breathability, softness, and structure.
Cotton: The Foundation of Streetwear
Why cotton leads the way
Cotton is the most important fibre in streetwear - breathable, soft, and naturally comfortable. Our oversized tees use 260gsm cotton, giving them substance without stiffness.
The benefit of natural fibres
Unlike synthetic blends, cotton absorbs moisture and allows airflow, essential for South Africa’s climate. It adapts to you: cool when it’s hot, warm when it’s cool.
Durability through density
High-GSM cotton doesn’t lose its shape easily. That’s why our heavyweight fabrics keep structure even after years of wear.
Fleece: The Layer of Warmth
What fleece really is
Fleece isn’t a separate material, it’s a finish. It’s cotton or a cotton blend that’s brushed to create a soft inner texture. It’s what gives our 400gsm hoodies their plush interior without adding bulk.
The comfort factor
That brushed interior traps heat while maintaining breathability. It’s warmth engineered for movement, not restriction.
Our fleece philosophy
We choose heavyweight fleece because it holds shape, resists pilling, and feels lived-in from day one.
Understanding GSM and Weight
What GSM means
GSM stands for grams per square metre - the measure of fabric weight. It’s how you quantify quality before you even touch the garment.
How weight affects structure
- 120 - 180gsm: Lightweight, soft, often used in basics.
- 180 - 260gsm: Midweight, ideal for daily wear.
- 260 - 460gsm: Heavyweight, structured, premium and built to last.
Our tees sit at 260gsm, hoodies above 400gsm, giving each piece a signature drape and longevity.
Why heavier is better
Heavyweight doesn’t mean uncomfortable; it means intentional. The right weight adds body and confidence to every fit.
The Science of Comfort
Breathability
Comfort begins with airflow. Cotton fibres allow your skin to breathe while retaining structure, ideal for South African heat.
Softness and texture
Comfort also lives in touch. Brushed fleece, enzyme-washed cotton, and pre-shrunk finishes create a tactile, lived-in feel.
Temperature balance
The magic of premium cotton and fleece lies in thermoregulation - fabrics that adapt to temperature shifts, perfect for transitional climates.
Our design process
We test for both feel and function - every piece must deliver comfort, weight and durability in equal measure.
Choosing Fabrics That Last
Invest once, wear often
The best streetwear doesn’t wear out - it breaks in. High-GSM cotton develops character over time without losing its integrity.
Maintenance matters
Wash cold, air dry, and avoid over-ironing. Preserving natural fibre structure keeps fabric life long and fit true.
Our promise
Every fabric we use from cotton to fleece, is selected for its ability to age beautifully, ensuring your wardrobe grows with you.
Conclusion: Comfort is Crafted, Not Coincidental
Streetwear isn’t just defined by cut or logo - it’s defined by material honesty.
We build ours from heavyweight cotton and fleece that balance comfort, quality, and confidence. Because the best pieces don’t just fit your style, they fit your life.
Explore our heavyweight tees, hoodies, and essentials - built from premium cotton and fleece, designed in Cape Town.
Visit We Are Gods | South African Streetwear
Address: 9 Long St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8000
Phone: 062 317 2479
Website: wearegodsonline.com
Instagram: instagram.com/wearegodsonline
TikTok: tiktok.com/@wearegodsonline
Google Maps: Find us here
FAQs
1. What fabrics are best for streetwear?
Cotton and fleece - they balance comfort, breathability, and durability.
2. What does GSM mean in fabric weight?
Grams per square metre - the higher the GSM, the thicker and more structured the fabric.
3. Why use heavyweight cotton?
It delivers better drape, longevity, and a premium feel without sacrificing comfort.
4. What makes fleece hoodies so comfortable?
The brushed interior traps warmth and creates a soft, lived-in feel.
5. How should I care for heavyweight fabrics?
Wash gently, air dry and avoid heat - proper care preserves structure and softness.
