The humble hoodie is a piece that has found its way into virtually all corners of modern fashion, with everyone from streetwear hipsters to corporate office workers incorporating them into their daily looks. We can’t think of too many other pieces that seamlessly float between leisure and luxury with such ease.
It’s also with this in mind, that the hoodie should certainly not be seen as a piece of clothing that you throw on in the comfort of your own home during the evening or one you give to a female guest (unless you want to actually get rid of it, because you’ll be unlikely to ever see it again).
While it’s certainly true that you needn’t spend a huge amount to get yourself a highly capable hoodie, the more you are able to part with will result in you being able to rock more desirable brands that will make you the envy of your designer-conscious brethren.
But before we get into the best hoodie brands you can buy right now, let us provide you with a quick history lesson.
Like most pieces in men’s fashion, the hoodie had humble beginnings. Sportswear label Champion began making sweatshirts in the early 1930s, adding a hood to them to protect athletes and labourers from the elements. Meanwhile, college sporting teams began pining for warmer apparel to wear during winter, which lead to the hoodie becoming adopted by young America during the sixties. Hip-hop culture soon embraced the hoodie and today it’s become a mainstay in the modern male wardrobe with plenty of designs to choose from.
While the brand name will likely determine your choice of the hoodie, there are still a number of factors you should be looking out for before you make a purchase. When shopping for your next hoodie, look for quality craftsmanship, a perfect fit – depending on its intended use, you’re going to want to decent movement – and versatility (will it appropriate for transitioning from casual weekender to evening bar). These traits will ensure the hoodie not only looks good but will remain so for years to come.
Naturally, you’ll also want to consider whether you want a pullover or a zip-up style. Zip-up hoodies are naturally easier to take off and put on but can come across far more casual in their design.
The modern hoodie is at home in smart casual circles as it is in the plain casual. These days men can wear hoodies with:
The zip variety, much like a blazer, can be worn open as a quick throw-on layer during cooler summer nights – zipping it halfway can help to accentuate your upper body proportions – or fully zipped up if the temperature decides to really drop. You can wear the zip-through smartly and it’s more versatile. You can take it off without messing up your hair, and unzip once inside if you start to feel warm.
The only rule is to make sure you never go down the double hoodie route; that is, wearing a hooded tee with a hoodie (we’d hope you wouldn’t wear a hooded t-shirt anyway, but we felt we needed to make the point). If you need more tips, check out our comprehensive style guide on how to wear a hoodie.
As a rule to using hoodies to sharpen up your look, the hoodie should be fitted. Shoulders should be snug, with the sides of the hoodie following the drape of the torso. A billowy body immediately creates a sloppy, weekend dad style. Think comfort and never go for a super tight fit. A nicely fitted hoodie is a far better look for dressing up and dressing down.
Cotton jersey is the original (and the best). It’s loved by athletes and now urban gents alike. The cotton stops air from penetrating (thus, keeping warm), it absorbs sweat and is breathable when body temperatures warm up underneath. A bit of polyester blended in is fine for added durability but make sure there’s cotton in the mix.
Rhone
Rhone is one of our favourite retailers here at DMARGE. The American activewear company perfectly blends together its own fabric technology with timeless, staple designs that can clothe you from head to toe. It also makes Rhone's clothing suitable for day-to-day wear, as well as in the gym or when exercising, of course.
The company's hoodie range is a little limited compared to some other retailers, but with pullover and full-zip options available, you're hardly left wanting. Fabrics are lightweight, soft and stretchy and will keep you warm, while minimising sweat thanks to moisture-wicking technology.
Everlane
Everlane is another retailer you should add to your list of reliable retailers. Not only does the American brand offer an incredible range of clothing, but it is is all made from sustainable materials and in sustainable and ethical means. The retailer also lets you know how the price of each piece has been worked out, including where you money goes.
You'll find zip-up and pullover hoodies in Everlane's collection, with fabrics such as french terry being used for its durability. Each hoodie can also be had in a multitude of colours, meaning you can wear dark, professional colours to work and more vibrant, fun colours on your days off.
Olivers Apparel
Olivers Apparel is a Californian-based brand that was conceived in a small workshop, a handful of fabrics and a clear goal to reimagine the very notion of menswear essentials. Positioning themselves more towards athletic-types, Olivers employs a range of high-end fabrics to deliver an eclectic range of clothing that performs far better than your average high-street retailer.
The current hoodie range co prises solely pullover designs, ideal for retaining warmth when the temperature drops, and are presented in a couple of classic looks that be dressed up or down.
Todd Snyder x Champion
For something a little luxe, turn your attention to Todd Snyder. The former Ralph Lauren designer turned solo fashion designer knows the exact formula to create clothing that is stylish, on-trend and made to an incredibly high quality.
Todd Snyder may have a longstanding collaboration with Champion, which has seen a plethora of sweaters released, but Todd's own collection includes super-soft and super-warm cashmere hoodies
Lululemon
Canadian company Lululemon isn't just one to turn to for yoga clothing, in fact, the brand not only has an extensive range of activewear but a line of more casual clothing to boot.
That's not to say the Lululemon hoodies can't be worn for more active pursuits, as they're made from breathable fabrics designed to keep your body warm and comfortable, without the build up of excess sweat, but are designed to look decidedly more laid back.
Flint and Tinder
Flint and Tinder is an American label stocked exclusively by tough, rugged, outdoor gear specialists Huckberry. In this regard, you can trust whatever you buy from the online retailer to have passed some tests to ensure that you only receive the highest-quality items possible.
The company is so confident of the durability of its clothes that it calls its hoodies '10-year'. This literally does mean Flint and Tinder expects them to last at least 10 years, thanks to a combination of American craftsmanship and tough, weighty fabrics.
Outerknown
With professional American surfer Kelly Slater manning the helm of this clothing brand, you can be guaranteed to score immediate cool points. Even better, is that everything Outerknown produces has been meticulously crafted to be as sustainable as possible. This means much of the clothing range is made from recycled materials and workers are employed through Fair Trade USA, ensuring they work in ethical conditions and receive appropriate pay for their hours.
Outerknown's hoodie range is beach boho through and through. Innovative features such as on-seam pockets and rubberised closures help them stand out from a crowded sea of sweats and with a range of colours to choose from, you'll do well to stock up.
Hugo Boss
German clothing brand should need no introduction. Over the years, Hugo has remained on-trend and presents its collections with styles that are immediately recognisable. No matter which clothing category you want to shop for, Hugo Boss has an extensive range catering to all colours, patterns, fits and more.
The brand's hoodie range encompasses more urban-orientated pieces that those that can comfortably classed as athleisure wear. These pieces will look just as good in the boardroom, however, reinforcing just how much a versatile designer Hugo Boss is.
Gymshark
British sportswear company Gymshark is one of those brands that makes you question "why didn't I think of that?". Its teenager-aged founder has seen exponential growth, thanks to a combination of great-looking and functional clothing and taking advantage of platforms such as Instagram for advertisement. The affordable prices also play their part.
It's not just shorts and t-shirts for the gym in Gymshark's clothing range either, as you'll also find an extensive selection of hoodies too. Materials alternate been light and heavyweight for transitioning between seasons, as well as for use in and out of the gym.
Saturdays NYC
Exuding unmistakable 'New York cool' through its clothing, Saturdays NYC offers its own unique collections of clothing that bring together laidback vibes and high quality craftsmanship. With the main bulk of menswear staples covered, picking out a couple of capsule pieces is a doddle.
Saturdays NYC hoodies take on various fits, colours and designs, with some rocking pictures, others emblazoned with the company logo, while others ditch both in favour of a more minimalist silhouette. Something for everyone, then.
J. Crew
American clothier J.Crew consistently churns out well-styled staple after well-styled staple. It's perhaps one of the most inoffensive brands on the market today and one that is always on the hunt for the latest fabrics that combine outright quality at an affordable price point.
The company's hoodie selection encompasses french terry and slub cotton (cotton with a slightly rough and uneven texture) fabrics, which are used to produce hoodies in a range of colours that can easily be slipped underneath a blazer or worn down with jeans at the weekend.
Mission Workshop
San Francisco-based Mission Workshop is a brand committed to producing highly-durable clothes and gear (it started out making backpacks) that just look cool. Their range might be on the pricier side of the budget spectrum, but in return you get some of the hardest wearing pieces that will last you a lifetime.
Mission Workshop's hoodie range caters to a variety of uses, including simple and soft pieces for the city, to heavyweight, waterproof versions designed to accompany you on longer outdoor adventures.
AllSaints
British clothing brand AllSaints was founded in 1994, but it wasn't until 15 years (and under new management) that it started to see rapid expansion. The company certainly has its own defined style, with bold patterns shirts, thin knitwear pieces ideal for layering and a range of high-quality leather jackets, AllSaints is worn by everyone from laidback grungey types to corporate city workers.
The brand's hoodie range makes for great viewing. On one end of the spectrum you have minimal pieces that simply sport the company logo, while at the other you have hoodies with full back prints that offer a chance to really let your personality shine. They come in a variety of fits, from slim cuts to oversized (which make for great Sunday lounging pieces) and all have a air of cool not expressed by many other brands.
Faherty
Founded by twin brothers Mike and Alex, Faherty Brand initially set out to create the perfect board shorts, but once that was quickly out the way, expanded into other areas of clothing. The aesthetic certainly takes on a more surfer hippie vibe, making it the perfect partner for anyone who lives near the coast. The brand places a firm emphasis on sustainability, longevity and comfort.
This is exemplified in the choice of fabrics used for its range of hoodies, which, while may be more akin to something your dad would wear, are made from the likes of cashmere to provide a supersoft feel that you'll never want to be without.
Carhartt
Carhartt has been in operation since 1889 and has continued to be known for its range of heavy-duty clothing that comfortably fends off many of the nasties Mother Nature provides. It has since become just as much of a streetwear icon, with the 'Work In Progress' label being the one that frequently collaborates with some of the biggest names in fashion.
Hoodies encompass a mixture of midweight and heavyweight fabrics, with some even being able to defend against light rain showers. Typically neutral in their colour palette, Carhartt hoodies make great casual pieces that can assist in a time of need.
Ellessee
Italian sportswear label Ellesse was founded in 1959 saw its popularity soar following the release of skiwear in the 1970s, as well its involvement with tennis (the logo resembles a tennis ball and the two smaller red sections are shaped like the tips of skis). Today, Ellesse has also found affinity with youth and streetwear culture, but what has remained is the company's insistence on prominent branding, combined with soft fabrics, resulting in pieces ideally suited to lounging around, the gym or casual weekend looks.
James Perse
Los Angeles clothing designer James Perse literally grew up with his fingers in the fashion industry pie. His father owned a boutique in LA, Maxfield, that helped the city become known for its unique style. James designed a new cap for the store which was met with immediate success, and his clothing career was born.
Positioned more towards the higher end of the market, James Perse hoodies are made in the USA or Japan and make use of high quality fabrics that are garment dyed, making them feel personable from the very first wear.
Sunspel
British clothing brand Sunspel has a long history dating back to 1860 when it was founded in Nottingham. The company is often credited with being responsible for introducing boxer shorts to the UK market, bringing them over from the US in 1947. Today the brand's clothing range is a lot more diverse, but attention to detail and the procurement of high-quality fabrics that will last you a lifetime is as paramount as ever.
Hoodies take on classic and familiar looks, but are made from luxurious French Terry with supersoft linings that make them worth every single cent.
John Elliott
John Elliott has been on a mission to perfect the art of menswear from an incredibly young age. Hardly ever seen without a pen and paper in his hand from as young at eight, the American designer was always destined for great things. Today, his eponymous clothing label is worn by some of the most famous faces on the planet and for good reason. Clothes are made from some of the finest materials around, as John is incredibly specific about the fabrics used for each piece, so will go to great lengths to source them.
The brand's hoodies certainly fall into the essentials category, since they predominantly rock minimalist silhouettes in a range of colours. Don't expect run-of-the-mill cotton though, as John employs a use of more durable fabrics such as French Terry in various weights.
Nike
It's hard to ignore sportwear giant Nike in any field of clothing, such is its popularity and level of penetration within the clothing industry. It is, therefore, no surprise that Nike has a huge range of hoodies to cater to all tastes.
The majority of Nike's various clothing labels have their own hoodie, whether it be Nike SB, Nike Sportswear or even the highly technical Nike ACG collection.
Acne Studios
Swedish brand Acne Studios is famed for its collections of understated yet versatile clothes. While it should be said that you will need to pay up for its clothing, you'll be rewarded with items that will last for years.
Acne Studios' hoodie range has something for everyone, with various fits on offer along with colouring and those with or without prints on the front.
Uniqlo
Japanese clothing brand Uniqlo can be relied upon time and time again to produce clothes that are of an impeccable quality, yet won't break your bank. The brand has an extensive catalogue covering all menswear essentials, and that includes a solid hoodie offering.
Both zip-up and pullover styles can be had from Uniqlo and in a variety of fits and fabrics. Select hoodies are fashioned from the company's Dry-EX fabric, which dries stupidly quickly and wicks sweat away from the body.
ASOS Design
For one of the largest choices of hoodie style, colour and fit anywhere online, head to ASOS. The British online retailer has an unfathomably large catalogue comprising practically every high-street brand you can think of. It's own ASOS Design label is certainly one to check out, as it regularly keeps up with the latest trends, which unfortunately, tend to draw inspiration from British reality TV culture, but peruse through the collection and you'll find some hidden gems.
Polo Ralph Lauren
From the man who used to be a designer at Ralph Lauren to the eponymous brand itself. The Ralph Lauren polo player logo is one of the most recognisable around the world, making it one you'll want to be seen wearing. And while you may initially think the hoodie range will comprise solely of the common selection of navy, grey and white zipped or pullover options, there are actually a number of more informal pieces with pops of colour just waiting to be snapped up.
Dsquared2
Dsquared2, founded by Canadian-born twins Dean and Dan Caten, is an Italian clothing brand that, while definitely veers into 'expensive' territory, is able to command such a premium because their clothing is just that good. You won't find the 'menswear essentials' here, but instead, classic pieces given a uniquely Dsquared2 infusion.
Hoodies, for example, may use traditional materials such as French Terry, but benefit from Italian craftsmanship and the twins' fun and exciting vision, making the brand truly one of a kind.
