Gildan vs Port & Company – A Comprehensive Comparison

In the wholesale apparel market, Gildan and Port & Company are two of the most recognized brands. Both provide affordable basics such as T-shirts, hoodies, and sweatshirts that are perfect for schools, businesses, events, and customization. Buyers often compare the two because they share similar qualities but differ in fabric feel, price, and durability. Simply put, both are reliable, bulk-friendly brands, but each comes with its own strengths.

Brand Overview

Gildan

Gildan started in 1984 and has grown into a global name. It is one of the largest blank apparel suppliers in the world. Gildan is known for its affordable prices and huge variety of styles.

• Products: T-shirts, hoodies, sweatshirts, polos, and more.
• Strengths: Consistent sizing, wide color choices, and strong inventory.
• Reputation: Trusted by screen printers and resellers for bulk orders.

Port & Company

Port & Company is a SanMar brand. It was created to give buyers reliable and budget-friendly apparel. The brand focuses on simple basics that are soft, comfortable, and easy to customize.

• Products: T-shirts, sweatshirts, polos, and outerwear.
  
• Strengths: Preshrunk fabrics, everyday comfort, and durability.
  
• Reputation: Popular among schools, businesses, and teams.
  

Fabric and Quality

• Gildan fabrics: Heavy Cotton, Ultra Cotton, Softstyle ringspun cotton, and blends. These fabrics are sturdy and great for printing.
  
• Port & Company fabrics: Core Cotton, Essential Cotton, ringspun, and cotton/poly blends. These are softer and preshrunk, which helps reduce shrinkage after washing.
  

Gildan fabrics feel a little heavier and more durable. Port & Company fabrics feel softer and are less likely to shrink.

Comfort and Fit

• Gildan: Classic fit with standard sizing. Their shirts and hoodies feel slightly thicker, making them durable but sometimes warmer in hot weather.
  
• Port & Company: True-to-size fit with a boxier cut. Their shirts often feel softer and more comfortable for daily wear.
  

For sizing help, you can check the Gildan brand size chart and the Port & Company size chart.

Style and Product Range

T-shirts

When buying from a brand, everyone wants to know the popular products offered by it.

If you are in search of the most popular Gildan shirt, here are some suggestions: 
Gildan 5000 Heavy Cotton Tee is one of the most popular t-shirts. It is affordable, durable, and available in many colors.

Other Gildan T-shirt bestsellers:

• Gildan 64000 Softstyle Tee – lightweight, soft ringspun cotton.
  
• Gildan 2000 Ultra Cotton Tee – heavyweight with a premium feel.
  
• Gildan G640 Adult Softstyle Tee – lightweight t-shirt for adults made of 100% preshrunk cotton.
  

On the contrary, if you are wondering what the most popular Port & Company shirt is?
It’s PC54 Men's Core Cotton Tee. A soft feel, preshrunk cotton, and an affordable price make it a go-to choice for events and uniforms. Other Port & Company T-shirt bestsellers:

• PC61 Essential Tee – a thicker, classic style.
  
• PC450 Fan Favorite Tee – ringspun softness.
  
• PC55 Blend Tee – cotton/poly mix with less shrinkage.
  

Hoodies and Sweatshirts

Gildan Best-Sellers:

• Gildan 18500 Heavy Blend Hoodie – the most popular hoodie, and comfortable.
  
• Gildan18000 Heavy Blend Crewneck Sweatshirt – simple and durable.
  
• Gildan g185 Youth Hoodie – premium functionality, comfort, and style.
  

Port & Company Best-Sellers:

• PC78H Core Fleece Pullover Hoodie – everyday hoodie, soft and affordable.
  
• PC78 Core Fleece Crewneck Sweatshirt – budget-friendly fleece.
  
• PC380 Performance Tee – moisture-wicking for active wear.

Polos

Gildan Best-Sellers:

• Gildan 8800 DryBlend Jersey Sport Shirt – A moisture-wicking and durable option.
  
• Gildan 64800 Softstyle Pique Polo – A soft feel with a classic fit.
  
• Gildan G880 Adult Jersey Polo – Affordable everyday polo.

Port & Company Best-Sellers:

• Port & Company KP150 Ring-Spun Pique Polo – Budget-friendly and reliable.
  
• Port & Company KP55 Blend Jersey Knit Polo – Smooth, comfortable, stain-release finish.
  
• Port & Company K1500 Combed Ring Spun Pique Polo – Classic fit and versatile.

Pricing and Value

• Gildan: Usually costs less, making it a top choice for Bulk Apparel orders, giveaways, and promotions.
  
• Port & Company: Priced slightly higher, but the softness and preshrunk quality add value. Many buyers choose it for uniforms and long-term use.

Gildan wins on low cost. Port & Company wins on everyday comfort.

Customization and Printing Performance

• Gildan: The thicker fabric absorbs ink well and creates bold, vibrant prints. Great for screen printing and DTG.
  
• Port & Company: Smooth surface and preshrunk fabric keep prints looking sharp even after washing. Excellent for screen printing and heat transfers.
  

Both brands work well for embroidery on polos and fleece.

Sustainability and Ethical Practices

• Gildan: Runs large sustainability programs, including water treatment plants, waste reduction, and safe labor practices. They share annual reports about their progress.
  
• Port & Company: Backed by SanMar’s ethical sourcing program. They focus on responsible production and safe supply chains.
  

Both are committed to more eco-friendly and ethical production.

Best Use Cases

• When to choose Gildan: For promotional giveaways, large bulk orders, or buyers on a strict budget.
  
• When to choose Port & Company: For school uniforms, corporate gear, or repeat orders where comfort and consistent fit are essential.

Conclusion

The choice between Gildan vs Port and Company ultimately depends on your specific needs and priorities. Gildan offers unbeatable value and durability, making it ideal for budget-conscious buyers and high-wear applications. Port & Company provides superior comfort and immediate appeal, justifying its slightly higher price point for customer-facing applications.

For businesses looking to stock wholesale Port and Company apparel or bulk Gildan apparel, consider your target market and intended use. Both brands have earned their place in the wholesale apparel industry by consistently delivering quality products that meet different market needs.

Whether you choose the cost-effective reliability of Gildan or the comfort-focused approach of Port & Company, you're selecting from two of the most trusted names in wholesale apparel. The key is matching the brand characteristics with your specific requirements for the best possible outcome.

Ready to make your decision? Explore our full selection of wholesale apparel from both brands to find the perfect products for your next project.