A good American-made t-shirt shouldn't cost $80 — but it also shouldn't fall apart after five washes. These six nail the balance between quality, price, and domestic production.
Classic Crew
American Giant built their reputation on this shirt. The heavyweight cotton feels substantial without being stiff, and the fit holds up wash after wash. I've had three of these for over two years and they still look new. Best all-around American tee.
Best for: Best overall
Check price →1801GD Garment Dye Crew
LA Apparel's 1801GD is the garment-dyed heavyweight tee that took over social media for good reason. The 6.5 oz cotton has a boxy, vintage feel and the garment-dye process gives each shirt a slightly unique wash. Great value for a Made-in-LA shirt.
Best for: Best value
Check price →USA Heavyweight Pocket Tee
Goodwear has been making t-shirts in Pennsylvania since 1983. Their heavyweight pocket tee uses 7.5 oz cotton — the thickest on this list. It feels like wearing a soft blanket. If you want a shirt that will outlast everything in your closet, this is it.
Best for: Best for comfort
Check price →5100 USA-Made Tee
Bayside is the secret weapon of the American-made t-shirt world. At $12, the 5100 is the cheapest legit USA-made tee I've found. The 6.1 oz cotton is solid, the fit is no-nonsense, and they're made in rural Alabama. I buy these in packs.
Best for: Best budget option
Check price →Heavyweight Crew
All American Clothing focuses on US-made basics, and their heavyweight crew is a solid middle-of-the-road option. The cotton is substantial, the construction is clean, and the price is fair. It's not going to win any design awards, but it does the job.
Best for: Worth considering
Check price →Re-Spun Crew
Marine Layer's Re-Spun line uses recycled materials and is made in San Francisco. The fabric is insanely soft — probably the softest on this list. But at $48 for a tee, you're paying a premium for the sustainability angle and that buttery hand feel.
Best for: Softest option
Check price →Brand Profiles
Learn more about where these brands manufacture and what else they make:
- American Giant — Middlesex, NC
- Buck Mason — Los Angeles, CA
- All American Clothing Co. — Arcanum, OH
- Todd Shelton — East Rutherford, NJ