Gildan 2300 Review

Overview: The Working Professional's Choice

The Gildan 2300 Ultra Cotton Pocket T-Shirt represents a straightforward, well-executed approach to workwear. It doesn't try to be fashionable or premium - it focuses entirely on providing durable, practical clothing for people who actually need a pocket on their shirt.

What sets the 2300 apart from generic pocket tees is the quality of construction, particularly the pocket itself. The 5-point pocket construction means all five edges are securely stitched down, preventing the corner curling and pocket sag that's common on cheaper alternatives. This matters when you're using the pocket daily for pens, phones, or small tools.

The 6.0 oz heavyweight cotton provides genuine durability. This isn't a thin, cheap tee that falls apart after a few washes - it's built to be workwear. The fabric holds up to repeated washing, resists stretching, and maintains its shape over time. For uniform programs or work environments where shirts take abuse, this construction matters.

Understanding the 5-Point Pocket

The "5-point pocket" construction is worth understanding because it's a key quality indicator for pocket tees:

• Top left corner: Stitched down to prevent curling
• Top right corner: Same secure stitching
• Bottom edge: Double-stitched for durability
• Left side: Reinforced at stress points
• Right side: Matching reinforcement

This construction ensures the pocket stays flat, maintains its shape even when loaded, and doesn't develop the "pocket sag" that makes cheaper shirts look worn out after minimal use. For workers who actually use their pocket daily, this quality difference is immediately noticeable.

Fabric Composition by Colour

Not all colours have identical fabric composition - this is important to note:

• White, Black, Navy Blue: 100% US Cotton
• Sport Grey: 90% Cotton, 10% Polyester (for heathered appearance)
• Orange: 100% Cotton (high-visibility option)

Best Use Cases

Decoration and Branding Options

The 2300's pocket opens up unique branding opportunities that non-pocket tees can't offer:

Pocket Embroidery

The most popular choice for professional applications. A small embroidered logo on the pocket creates a clean, professional look that's subtle but effective. This works particularly well for service companies, trade workers, and corporate uniforms where understated branding is preferred.

Pocket Screen Printing

A cost-effective alternative to embroidery for larger orders. Screen printing on the pocket works well for simpler designs with fewer colours. The pocket's flat surface prints cleanly, though intricate details may be challenging on the smaller area.

Full Front Print

The 6.0 oz fabric weight is excellent for screen printing. The heavier material prevents show-through and holds up well to the printing process. Large back designs with pocket logos are a popular combination.

Print Method Compatibility

• Screen Printing: Excellent - the heavyweight cotton takes ink beautifully
• Embroidery: Excellent - sturdy fabric supports embroidery well
• DTF Transfers: Good - works on both pocket and body
• DTG Printing: Good - better on lighter colours
• HTV: Good - adheres well to the cotton fabric

Sizing Information

The 2300 uses Gildan's classic fit sizing, which runs slightly generous for comfortable physical work.

Size	S	M	L	XL	2XL	3XL
Chest (inches)	34-36	38-40	42-44	46-48	50-52	54-56
Body Length	28	29	30	31	32	33

Sizing tip: The shirt is pre-shrunk, but 100% cotton may still shrink slightly (3-5%) with washing. For workwear applications where comfort during physical activity matters, consider ordering your usual size - the classic fit already provides room for movement.

Competitor Comparison

How does the Gildan 2300 compare to other pocket tee options?

Feature	Gildan 2300	Gildan 5000	Hanes 5590
Pocket	Yes (5-Point)	No	Yes
Weight	6.0 oz	5.3 oz	5.2 oz
Material	100% Cotton	100% Cotton	50/50 Cotton/Poly
Sizes	S-3XL	S-5XL	S-3XL
Colours	5	60+	12
Price (CAD)	$12.95	$8.95	$11.95
Best For	Heavy workwear	General purpose	Budget pocket tee

Care Instructions

Proper care extends the life of your 2300 shirts:

• Machine wash cold or warm with like colours
• Use mild detergent - avoid bleach except on white
• Tumble dry low or medium heat
• Remove promptly to minimize wrinkles
• Iron on medium heat if needed
• Do not dry clean

The Bottom Line

The Gildan 2300 Ultra Cotton Pocket T-Shirt delivers exactly what it promises: a durable, well-constructed pocket tee for working professionals. At $12.95 CAD, it's reasonably priced for the quality and utility it provides.

Choose the 2300 when you need a practical pocket tee for uniforms, workwear, or everyday utility. The 5-point pocket construction is genuinely superior to cheaper alternatives, and the 6.0 oz cotton will hold up to daily wear and repeated washing.

Skip the 2300 if you need colour variety (only 5 options), fashion-forward styling, or sizes beyond 3XL. For those needs, consider the Gildan 5000 (no pocket, 60+ colours) or look at fashion-focused alternatives.