What is a Hoodie? Everything You Need to Know
You may have wondered at the difference between these words “hoodie” and “hoody”. They mean the same thing! Most people use “hoodie” which is understandable because this spelling is more popular.
So, what is a hoodie? A hoodie is a warm piece of clothing. Its attributes include long sleeves, hood, and, when worn up, it covers most of the head and neck. Some hoodies have a big front pocket, while some have zippers, and others just pull over your head. People wear hoodies to stay warm, feel comfy, or just look cool.
In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to know about hoodies. We’ll talk about their evolution, how they’re made, how to wear them, and how to take care of them. You will also find out where you can buy custom hoodies to take your hoodies to another level of style and self-expression.
The Evolution of the Hoodie
Hoodies have been around for a long time. In fact, hooded clothing goes back hundreds of years! Long ago, people in cold places wore cloaks with hoods to stay warm. Monks wore robes with hoods. Workers also wore hooded clothing to protect themselves from rain and wind.
The modern hoodie, like the ones we wear today, started in the 1930s. At first, it was made for workers who needed to stay warm on the job. In the 1950s, it started getting popular amidst sport teams, the military, and college students.
By the 1970s and 1980s, hoodies became even more popular as hip-hop artists wore them. Over time, hoodies have become part of everyday fashion. Everyone now wears hoodies—kids, parents, athletes, and even celebrities.
When were Hoodies Invented?
The hoodie we know today was invented in the 1930s. It was made for factory workers in New York. These workers had to deal with cold weather while working outside or in chilly buildings.
Back then, most clothes weren’t warm enough. So, clothing companies started making sweatshirts with hoods. These new hooded sweatshirts were a big hit. They were warm, simple, and easy to wear.
Who Invented the Hoodies?
The first modern hoodie was made by a company called Champion. It is a sportswear brand that still exists today. In the 1930s, they designed the hoodie for workers. It didn’t take long for athletes and schools to start wearing them too.
Is a Hoodie a Sweatshirt or a Jacket?
This is a common question! A hoodie is mostly a sweatshirt, but sometimes it can act like a jacket.
Let’s break them down and see the differences:
A sweatshirt is a warm pullover with no hood while a hoodie is like a sweatshirt but with a hood on the back. A jacket is physically characterized by an outer layer and zippers or buttons. It’s made for wind or rain.
Pullover hoodies (the kind without zippers) are just sweatshirts with a hood. But zip-up hoodies look a little more like jackets. They can be worn as light outerwear in spring or fall.
Some hoodies are thick and warm enough to take the place of a jacket. So, depending on the style, a hoodie can be both a sweatshirt and a jacket.
What Are Hoodies Made Of?
Hoodies are made from a number of different materials. Here are the most common ones:
- Cotton
- Polyester
- Cotton-Poly blend
- Fleece
- Nylon
- Wool
Cotton
This is one of the softest and most breathable fabrics. Cotton is a natural fiber that feels gentle on your skin and is great for everyday wear.
It also has incredible sweat-absorbing abilities that helps in keeping the body dry during intense activities. And because it is soft, comfortable, and safe to wear, it is the first choice for hoodies for kids.
100% cotton hoodies are cozy however, they may shrink and deform if not washed carefully, affecting their durability.
Polyester
Polyester is a strong synthetic fabric that doesn’t wrinkle or shrink easily. Hoodies made of this fabric don’t fade easily, and are highly durable.
It also dries quickly and is great for sporty hoodies. However, it doesn’t have a good ability for water absorption and easily produces static electricity. Its breathability isn’t good as well.
Cotton-Poly Blend
This mix gives you the best of both fabrics.
The usual ration is 50-60% polyester and 40% cotton. This not only keeps the softness and breathability of cotton, but involves the durability of polyester.
Fleece
Fleece is a warm, fuzzy fabric. It is one of the most popular fabrics for winter hoodies. It is perfect for chilly weather.
When blended with lycra, it is a good choice for making running or athletic wear.
Some hoodies have fleece on the inside for extra warmth.
Nylon
Nylon, like polyester, is also a synthetic fabric that is resistant to wear, water, and abrasion. It
looks glossy and is used to make party-wear hoodies.
Wool
Wool has a strong ability to keep warm. It is a good choice for winter hoodies. As a natural material, it is perfect in softness, and breathability. The downside is that some people may be allergic to the fabric. It shrinks too.
When you purchase or customize hoodies, it is ideal to consider the durability, breathability, comfort and warmth fabric you are choosing. This is in a bid to ensure that it meets your specific needs.
How Much Does a Hoodie Weigh?
Hoodies come in different weights. While some are light, others are thick and heavy. A quick look at the different weights:
- Lightweight hoodies weigh 5–8 ounces.
- Midweight hoodies weigh 9–12 ounces.
- Heavyweight hoodies weigh 13+ ounces.
The fabric type, thickness of the fabric and whether it’s a pullover or has a zip-up hoodie are all factors that affect the weight of a hoodie. Usually, fleece is heavier than thin cotton.
Also, the weight of the hoodie impacts warmth, comfort, and layering. Lighter hoodies are generally great for layering during warmer weather. Midweight ones are perfect for everyday use. The heavy hoodies work well as outerwear and are super warm for cold days.
Types of Hoodies: Finding Your Perfect Fit
Not all hoodies are the same. Some are made for comfort, others for style, and some for sports. There’s a hoodie for everyone. You just need to find the one that fits your lifestyle and taste!
The first three categories of the types of hoodies are the Pullover, Zip-up, and Longline hoodies:
Pullover Hoodies
These are the classic kind. No zippers—just pull it over your head. They’re cozy and great for lounging.
Zip-Up Hoodies
These have a zipper in the front. Easy to take on and off. They are great for layering over t-shirts or under jackets.
Longline Hoodies
These hoodies are extra long. They go down past your hips, maybe even close to your knees. They can be paired with slim joggers or jeans.
The next three categories of hoodies are stylish hoodies. These are the sleeveless, off-shoulder, and cropped top hoodies:
Sleeveless Hoodies
Yes, these exist! They’re like tank tops with hoods. They are often worn for workouts or hot days.
Cropped Hoodies
Shorter in length, usually worn as a fashion statement. Cropped hoodies are hoodies for women and are popular with teens and young adults.
Oversized Hoodies
Big, baggy, and super comfy. Many people wear these for a relaxed, cozy look.
Lastly, there are also three categories of hoodies, which are off-shoulder, cowl neck, and tech hoodies:
Off-shoulder Hoodies
Off-shoulder hoodies are a style worn lower on the shoulders, giving a trendy and laid-back vibe. People love this look for its relaxed and stylish feel.
Cowl Neck Hoodies
These are hoodies with a fancy neckline you can wear as a folded down or hood for style.
Tech hoodies
Made with smart features like headphone slots, water resistance, and temperature maintenance.
How to Measure Hoodies?
To get a hoodie that fits just right, it helps to take a few simple measurements. The key areas to measure are:
Chest and Bust: Wrap a measuring tape around the widest part of your chest. For the females, measure around the fullest part of the bust. Make sure it’s not too tight.
Shoulders: Measure from one shoulder to the other, straight across the back.
Sleeve Length: Start at the top of your shoulder and go down to your wrist.
Hoodie Length: Measure from the top of your shoulder down to where you want the hoodie to end (usually around the hips).
To have an idea of the different fits, they include:
- Regular fit which is a classic, comfy fit. Not too loose or too tight.
- Slim fit is snug and fitted around the body. It’s more stylish but less roomy.
- The oversized fit is baggy and relaxed. Perfect for lounging or layering.
Quick tip: always check the brand’s size chart—they’re not all the same. If you’re between sizes, go up one for extra comfort.
Styling a Hoodie: Fashion and Functionality
Hoodies are easy to wear, but you can also dress them up. There are a number of ways to do so:
For a casual look, pair your hoodie with jeans or joggers. Add sneakers and you’re good to go.
If you are going with a layered look, wear the hoodie under a denim jacket or coat. It adds style and keeps you warm.
Aiming for a sporty look? Match the hoodie with track pants or gym shorts. Great for workouts or casual days.
Dressy Look: Choose a plain, slim-fit hoodie. Pair it with chinos or a blazer for a smart-casual vibe.
How to Wash Hoodies?
Before washing, check the care tag inside the hoodie, empty the pockets, zip it up if it has a zipper, and turn it inside out to protect the outside from fading or damage.
Machine Washing
- Use cold or warm water (not hot!).
- Pick a gentle cycle.
- Use mild laundry detergent.
- Don’t mix with heavy or rough items (like jeans or towels).
Hand Washing
- Fill a tub or sink with cool water and a little detergent.
- Soak the hoodie for 10–15 minutes.
- Gently rub the dirty areas.
- Rinse with clean water.
It’s best to air dry after washing. But if using a dryer, select the low heat option to avoid shrinking. Also, wash hoodies with similar colors to avoid stains or color transfer. Avoid using bleach.
How to Store Hoodies?
To store your hoodies effectively, you can save them in your drawers & shelves, on padded hangers, and in a fabric bag. The main objective is to protect your hoodie from dust, and to keep them in a cool dry place.
Why Hoodies Are a Wardrobe Essential
Everyone loves hoodies because they are super comfortable, very versatile, and can be worn all year round. Custom hoodies are also popular among sport teams, couples, and companies. With so many colors, prints, and fits, you can find a hoodie that shows off your style.
Where to Buy a Hoodie?
FastPrintStar is a great place to order your custom hoodies. They offer premium-quality hoodies at a price that fits your budget. They have a versatile collection of hoodies. From hoodies for men and women to hoodies for kids and zip-up hoodies.
Let’s not talk about their printing options. You can choose to customize your hoodie with digital printing, sublimation, and embroidery. Guess what? The sublimation printing is free at FastPrintStar.
With a detailed web interface, you can create the exact design of the hoodie you have cooked up with your imagination. FastPrintStar is a one-of-a-kind custom hoodie maker that brings every imagination and creativity to life.
Whether it’s a customized hoodie for the team or custom couples hoodies, they’ve got you covered. With advanced technology, strict quality control, and sustainable practices, they ensure that your high-quality custom hoodies not only look great but also stand the test of time.
FastPrintStar is loaded with benefits for its customers. Requesting a free mockup is one of them. You can also get your order freely delivered to you wherever you may be, if you choose the 16-18 business day turnaround time.
You get the best of excellent and inexpensive custom hoodies at FastPrintStar! Place an order today and enjoy all these benefits and more.
Conclusion
Hoodies are more than just comfy clothes—they’re a big part of our lives. They’re warm, stylish, and easy to wear almost anywhere. Whether you’re dressing up or just hanging out, there’s a hoodie that fits the moment. Plus you get to have your customized hoodie as well.
Hoodies have a long history and have become a fashion staple. Choosing the right one means thinking about weight, material, and purpose.
