midweights

Midweights are a category used in textiles to describe fabrics that sit between lightweight and heavyweight, with the term varying by fiber and weave. Weight is typically reported in ounces per square yard (osy) or grams per square meter (g/m2), and midweight fabrics usually fall roughly in a mid-range that many suppliers classify as about 6 to 12 oz/yd2 (approximately 170–400 g/m2), though exact thresholds differ by material and finish.

Midweight fabrics are valued for a balance of drape, structure, and durability. They generally offer more warmth and wind resistance than lightweight fabrics while remaining breathable and flexible enough for everyday wear. This combination makes midweights versatile for a variety of garments and uses, from casual shirts to outerwear.

Fabrics commonly regarded as midweight include cotton twill, chino, drill, and denim in midweights, along with wool serge, flannel, and some midweight canvas variants. Blends and knit fabrics such as ponte and certain ponte-knit jerseys can also be categorized as midweight. The specific fiber content and construction influence feel, drape, and performance, so two midweight fabrics from different producers may behave differently.

Applications of midweight fabrics include casual trousers, shirts, light jackets, overshirts, and workwear. They are often chosen for garments requiring some durability without excessive bulk. Care and handling depend on the fiber and finish; most midweights require routine washing and drying per the fabric’s instructions, with attention to shrinkage, colorfastness, and potential pilling or wrinkling.

See also: fabric weight, textile weight, denim, twill, chino.