Hoodies or sweatshirts? Are they the same? Are they different? Which one do I get? Which is better? Admit it, you’ve probably asked yourself all of these questions at some point while out shopping, haven’t you? Don’t worry, we’ve been there too, which is why today we’re going to tell you everything you need to know about both popular types of apparel so that when the time comes to choose between the two, you can do so in a flash!

What Is a Hoodie?

First things first, what is a hoodie? 

According to the online Cambridge dictionary, hoodies are simply sweatshirts with hoods that cover the head. Hoodies typically have zippers, pockets, and drawstrings and come in a variety of fabrics. They are extremely soft, diverse, and practical – especially for those who don’t like to dress in too many layers. 

However, perhaps the most notable aspect of hoodies is their prominence in pop culture. 

Hoodies convey a relaxed, low-key, yet fashionable appearance, making them popular among the younger generation. That may be the main reason why hoodies have not only survived but also thrived in both the fashion industry and pop culture year after year.

FUN FACT: Hoodies have been around since the Middle Ages; however, it wasn’t until the Oscar-winning American sports-drama film “Rocky” in 1976 that they became immensely popularized.

Types of Hoodies

When talking about hoodies, one of the most popular gender-neutral garments on the market, one cannot help but mention their various styles and types. While there are lots out there – and we really mean LOTS – we’ve managed to pick out our top 5!

1. Custom hoodies

2. Sleeveless hoodies

3. Zip-up hoodies

4. Slim-fit hoodies

5. Knitted hoodies

What Is a Sweatshirt?

Sweatshirts are loose-fitting upper garments that are typically made of soft fabrics, such as cotton, cotton blends, wool, and fleece. They’re warm, fuzzy, and snuggly, so much so that the apparel is said to be synonymous with comfort.

Sweatshirts were originally designed for athletes, but are worn today by people of all ages and genders not only for high-intensity and athletic activities but also for leisurely activities at home, casual outings, daily outings, classes, dates, and so on.

What’s not to love about something that’s both comfortable and versatile, right?

FUN FACT: Sweatshirts were invented in 1926 by then-football player Benjamin Russell Jr., who was tired of his itchy wool jerseys and decided to replace them with something that was more comfortable and cooler. 

Types of Sweatshirts

Sweatshirts may have started out as simply the more comfortable jersey option, but the garment has since evolved into a fashion staple in large part due to its – you guessed it – versatility! Here’s a list of the 6 main types of sweatshirts available today.

1. Crewneck sweatshirts

2. Mock neck sweatshirt

3. Button-up sweatshirts

4. Sleeveless sweatshirts

5. Fleece sweatshirts

6. Knitted sweatshirts

Hoodies vs. Sweatshirts

If you took a closer look at the various types of hoodies and sweatshirts we listed above, you would think we’d made a mistake by repeating ourselves – but that’s not the case. In actuality, both hoodies and sweatshirts are very similar to one another!

For starters, they’re both collarless and heavyweight upper garments that are commonly worn for casual, outdoor, and athletic activities. Both garments can even be worn over other clothing items, like t-shirts, singlets, and so on. Perhaps the most striking similarity between them all, however, is that both hoodies and sweatshirts are often made from the same materials – cotton, fleece, and wool. 

Okay, so are they the same then? NO! There are actually a few things that distinguish these two seemingly similar garments. 

Hoodies	vs.	Sweatshirts
Upper body and face	Coverage	Upper body only
Yes	Hood	No
No	Buttons	Selectively
Yes	Pockets	No
Yes	Zippers	No
Yes	Drawstrings	No

FUN FACT: A drawstring is a string, cord, lace, or rope that is used to tighten or loosen a fabric or other material.

Choosing Between Hoodies and Sweatshirts

Sweatshirts and hoodies, in general, have the same properties in terms of comfort, flexibility, stretchability, durability, weight, and care, among other things. So how exactly do you choose between the two? It’s easy – your intent! 

1. Cold weathers 

Hoodies and sweatshirts are both perfect for combating cold weather and keeping the shivers at bay. However, hoodies may have a slight advantage in that they provide protection for your head as well with their hoods. So, if you are looking to stay warm, hoodies may just be the better option.

2. Formal occasions

When it comes to choosing between the two for a formal occasion, a simple monochrome sweatshirt would certainly fare better. This is mainly because of the stigma associated with hoodies, which is often reflected in their depiction in most crime movies and television shows.

3. Casual activities

Hoodies and sweatshirts are the epitome of comfort and casual – nothing more, nothing less. So, it is safe to say that when it comes to choosing one for your casual activity, you can go with either or! Here is a list of casual activities that both a hoodie and a sweatshirt are perfect for:

✔ Running errands

✔ Walking your pets

✔ Hiking

✔ Gardening

✔ College or university classes

✔ Gym or Physical Education (PE) classes

Takeaway

So, now that you’ve learned everything there is to know about these two amazing garments, perhaps you’d like to customise your very own printed hoodies or sweatshirts? 

If so, look no further because when it comes to custom hoodies Singapore services, we’re one of the best! Click here for more information on our comprehensive custom hoodies Singapore services.

Alternatively, if you have any questions about hoodies, sweatshirts, or our wide range of apparel customisation services such as custom sweatshirt printing, you can call us at +65 6362 2440 on any weekday between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. 

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