ATC1000 vs Gildan 2000 is one of the most useful tee comparisons in the Canadian wholesale blank market — but it’s not a comparison between equals. These two tees serve fundamentally different purposes and understanding exactly where they differ will save you money on programs where the ATC1000 is the right choice — and help you invest wisely in programs where the Gildan 2000 is worth the premium.
The ATC1000 Everyday Cotton Tee is a budget-priced Canadian-exclusive blank — open-end cotton, OEKO-TEX certified, available to 6XL, and distributed through SanMar Canada. It competes directly with the Gildan 5000 on price and construction.
The Gildan 2000 Ultra Cotton is Gildan’s premium heavyweight tee — 6 oz ringspun cotton, smoother surface, more substantial feel, and a wider colour range. It costs more than the ATC1000 — and for many programs it earns that premium.
Both are available through Fabrik Apparel at wholesale pricing with domestic Canadian shipping. Both decorate well with DTF printing, screen printing, and embroidery. But they are built for different applications — and choosing the wrong one costs either money or quality.
What is the ATC1000?
The ATC1000 Everyday Cotton Tee is produced by ATC (Authentic T-Shirt Company) — a Canadian-exclusive brand distributed through SanMar Canada and available through Fabrik Apparel. Designed as a Canadian-market everyday tee at budget pricing — the ATC1000 delivers functional decoration-ready cotton construction with OEKO-TEX certification and extended sizing.
ATC1000 key specs:
- Fabric: 100% preshrunk cotton — standard open-end
- Weight: 5.4 oz
- Construction: Compacted yarns to minimize shrinkage — side-seamed
- Collar: 1×1 rib knit
- Neck: Taped neck and shoulders
- Hem: Double needle cover stitch
- Label: Tearaway
- Certification: OEKO-TEX Standard 100
- Colours: 38+ colours
- Sizing: S to 6XL (core colours) / S to 4XL (extended colour range)
- Canadian brand: SanMar Canada exclusive
- Available through Fabrik Apparel
What is the Gildan 2000?
The Gildan 2000 Ultra Cotton T-Shirt is Gildan’s premium heavyweight tee — a 6 oz ringspun cotton construction that produces a noticeably smoother, more substantial feel than the ATC1000’s open-end cotton. The ringspun construction makes the 2000 Gildan’s best tee for decoration quality and long-term durability — and the 60+ colour range makes it one of the most versatile wholesale blanks in Canada.
Gildan 2000 key specs:
- Fabric: 100% preshrunk ringspun cotton — 18 singles
- Weight: 6 oz — heavier than the ATC1000
- Construction: Classic fit — tubular body
- Collar: Rib collar
- Neck: Taped neck and shoulders
- Label: Tearaway
- Colours: 60+ colours
- Sizing: S to 5XL
- Available through Fabrik Apparel
ATC1000 vs Gildan 2000 — Side by Side
| ATC1000 | Gildan 2000 | |
|---|---|---|
| Fabric | 100% open-end cotton | 100% ringspun cotton |
| Weight | 5.4 oz | 6 oz |
| Feel | Standard — functional | Softer — smoother — more substantial |
| Construction | Compacted yarns — side-seamed | Classic tubular |
| Sizing | S to 6XL | S to 5XL |
| Colours | 38+ | 60+ |
| Certification | OEKO-TEX Standard 100 | Standard |
| Brand origin | Canadian — SanMar Canada | Global — Gildan |
| Print surface | Good | Excellent — smoother ringspun |
| DTF printing | Very good | Excellent |
| Screen printing | Very good | Excellent |
| Embroidery | Very good | Excellent |
| Best for | Budget bulk, promos, events, 6XL | Uniforms, staff, retail, quality printing |
| Price point | Budget | Mid-range — 12%+ higher |
The Most Important Difference — Open-End vs Ringspun Cotton
This is the defining technical distinction between the ATC1000 and Gildan 2000 — and it affects everything about how each tee looks, feels, and performs under decoration.
ATC1000 — open-end cotton:
The ATC1000 uses standard open-end cotton — the same construction as the Gildan 5000. Open-end cotton fibres are spun quickly and economically — producing fibres that are shorter and less aligned. The result is a tee that feels like a standard promotional blank — functional and durable but without notable softness or smoothness.
For most decorated apparel programs — promotional events, bulk giveaways, team uniforms — this is entirely appropriate. The ATC1000 is not trying to be a premium tee. It is a reliable, affordable, Canadian-distributed everyday blank that decorates consistently and delivers good value.
Gildan 2000 — ringspun cotton:
The Gildan 2000 uses ringspun cotton — a more refined spinning process where fibres are twisted together into a tighter, smoother yarn. Ringspun yarn has fewer loose fibres than open-end cotton — producing a noticeably softer, smoother hand feel and a cleaner decoration surface.
The practical difference is immediate when you put on a Gildan 2000 — it feels more substantial and more refined than the ATC1000. For programs where end users wear the tee regularly — staff uniforms, team apparel, retail merchandise — that difference in feel is meaningful and noticed.
Weight — 5.4 oz vs 6 oz
The Gildan 2000 is 11% heavier than the ATC1000 — 6 oz vs 5.4 oz. That weight difference compounds the feel advantage of the ringspun cotton — the Gildan 2000 feels denser, more structured, and more premium in the hand.
ATC1000 at 5.4 oz:
A standard midweight tee — appropriate for warm weather, casual wear, and promotional programs. Light enough to be comfortable through active days and breathable in warm conditions.
Gildan 2000 at 6 oz:
A heavier, more substantial tee — produces a denser feel that many end users associate with quality. The extra weight is particularly noticeable in the chest area — the tee holds its shape better through repeated washing and doesn’t thin or become transparent over time.
For Canadian programs where the tee will be worn through all seasons — the 6 oz weight of the Gildan 2000 provides more confidence in long-term appearance and durability.
Decoration Compatibility — Where the 2000 Has a Clear Advantage
Both tees decorate well — but the ringspun cotton surface of the Gildan 2000 produces noticeably better results across all decoration methods.
DTF printing:
DTF printing works well on both tees. The smoother ringspun surface of the Gildan 2000 produces slightly sharper edge definition and better colour vibrancy — particularly on complex designs with fine detail. The ATC1000’s open-end cotton surface produces good DTF results for standard logo decoration.
Screen printing:
Screen printing on both tees produces acceptable results for bold simple designs. The Gildan 2000’s smoother ringspun surface holds ink coverage more cleanly — producing crisper edges and more consistent colour on complex multi-colour designs. For programs where screen print quality matters — the 2000 is the better choice.
Embroidery:
Embroidery on both tees works well for standard left-chest logos. The Gildan 2000’s heavier weight and smoother surface provides slightly better stability for stitching — logos sit cleanly with less distortion. Both require appropriate backing for dense or complex designs.
Where the ATC1000 Wins
Despite the Gildan 2000’s quality advantages — there are specific programs where the ATC1000 is the better choice:
OEKO-TEX certification:
The ATC1000 carries OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification — the Gildan 2000 does not. For programs targeting schools, children’s organizations, healthcare environments, and any application where independently certified fabric safety matters — the ATC1000 wins on certification credentials.
Extended sizing to 6XL:
The ATC1000 is available to 6XL — the Gildan 2000 tops out at 5XL. For programs serving a diverse population with larger sizing needs — the ATC1000 is the only option between the two.
Canadian brand distribution:
The ATC1000 is a Canadian-exclusive brand distributed through SanMar Canada — appealing for programs that specifically want to support Canadian distribution channels or need the reliability of a domestically-focused supply chain.
Budget bulk programs:
For very large promotional programs where per-unit cost is the absolute deciding factor — the ATC1000’s budget pricing and acceptable decoration performance make it the more cost-effective choice.
Where the Gildan 2000 Wins
For most programs where decoration quality, fabric feel, and long-term durability matter — the Gildan 2000 is worth the premium:
Staff and volunteer uniforms:
People wearing your tee every day will feel and appreciate the ringspun cotton quality difference immediately. The Gildan 2000’s smoother, heavier construction produces a more professional appearance through repeated daily wear.
Retail merchandise:
Customers paying for branded merchandise expect a premium feel. The Gildan 2000 delivers noticeably more perceived value than an open-end cotton alternative — the ringspun construction is the difference between a tee that feels like a keepsake and one that feels like a giveaway.
Complex decoration programs:
The smoother ringspun surface of the Gildan 2000 produces better results for fine-detail screen printing and DTF — particularly important for programs with detailed artwork, small text, or complex multi-colour designs.
Wide colour matching:
The Gildan 2000’s 60+ colour range significantly outpaces the ATC1000’s 38+ — for programs that need a specific colour match or want to offer a broader selection the 2000’s wider range is a practical advantage.
The Price Difference — Is the Gildan 2000 Worth It?
The Gildan 2000 sits approximately 12% higher than the ATC1000 at current Fabrik Apparel wholesale pricing. Here’s the honest assessment:
When the Gildan 2000 premium is worth it:
- Staff uniforms worn daily — ringspun quality is felt immediately
- Retail merchandise — perceived value difference justifies higher retail price
- Complex decoration with fine detail — smoother surface produces better results
- Programs where tee durability through years of washing matters
- Any program where the tee represents your brand quality directly
When the ATC1000 is the right choice:
- Large promotional giveaways where per-unit cost is primary
- Programs requiring OEKO-TEX certification
- Programs needing 6XL sizing
- One-time event shirts used occasionally
- Budget-constrained organizations needing maximum quantity
Which Tee is Right for Your Order?
Choose the ATC1000 if:
- Budget bulk programs — promotional events and giveaways
- OEKO-TEX certification is required
- 6XL sizing is needed
- Supporting Canadian brand distribution matters
- Per-unit cost is the primary consideration
- Decoration is simple and bold — fine detail is not required
Choose the Gildan 2000 if:
- Staff uniforms and volunteer identification
- Retail merchandise programs
- Corporate casual programs
- Complex decoration with fine-detail artwork
- Programs where tee quality reflects brand quality
- You need a specific colour from the 2000’s wider 60+ range
- Long-term durability through daily use is the priority
Frequently Asked Questions — ATC1000 vs Gildan 2000 Canada
What is the main difference between the ATC1000 and Gildan 2000? The most important difference is fabric construction — the ATC1000 uses open-end cotton at 5.4 oz while the Gildan 2000 uses ringspun cotton at 6 oz. The Gildan 2000 is heavier, softer, and produces better decoration results. The ATC1000 is more affordable, OEKO-TEX certified, and available to 6XL.
Is the ATC1000 or Gildan 2000 better for screen printing? The Gildan 2000 produces better screen printing results — the smoother ringspun cotton surface holds ink coverage more cleanly and produces crisper edges on complex designs. Both produce acceptable results for simple bold artwork.
Does the ATC1000 come in 6XL? Yes — the ATC1000 is available up to 6XL in core colours. The Gildan 2000 goes up to 5XL only.
What is OEKO-TEX certification and does the Gildan 2000 have it? OEKO-TEX Standard 100 is an independent certification confirming fabric has been tested for harmful substances. The ATC1000 carries this certification — the Gildan 2000 does not. For programs targeting schools and children’s organizations this matters.
Where can I buy the ATC1000 and Gildan 2000 in Canada? Both are available through Fabrik Apparel at wholesale pricing with domestic Canadian shipping — no cross-border duties and fast turnaround from Canadian warehouses.
Can Kode Garment decorate both the ATC1000 and Gildan 2000? Yes. Kode Garment sources both through Fabrik Apparel and decorates in our Newmarket, Ontario facility using DTF printing, screen printing, and embroidery. Contact us for a quote.
How long does production take? Standard production at Kode Garment is 7 to 10 business days from proof approval — one point of contact from blank to finished garment.
Ready to Order Decorated Tees in Canada?
At Kode Garment we source both the ATC1000 and Gildan 2000 through Fabrik Apparel and decorate them in our Newmarket, Ontario facility. Tell us your application and we’ll recommend the right tee for your program.
📍 Based in Newmarket, Ontario · Shipping Canada-wide 📞 905-235-9444 · Toll free 1-877-788-5633 ✉️ info@kodegarment.com
Browse ATC and Gildan at Fabrik Apparel →
The ATC1000 and Gildan 2000 are two of the most popular wholesale tees in Canada — both available through Fabrik Apparel at wholesale pricing. Kode Garment decorates both the ATC1000 and Gildan 2000 in Newmarket, Ontario using DTF printing, screen printing, and embroidery for businesses, teams, and organizations across Canada. The ATC1000 is Canada’s everyday cotton tee — OEKO-TEX certified, available to 6XL, and budget-priced for bulk programs. The Gildan 2000 Ultra Cotton delivers ringspun softness, heavier weight, and superior decoration results for programs where quality matters.
Leave a Reply