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More practical than pullovers, they open at the front to let in cool air, but only when needed.
A zip-up sweatshirt is a convertible piece of clothing, sort of like an all-terrain vehicle with a soft top, if that makes sense. They have the same abrasion resistance as hooded pullovers (also known as non-zipped sweatshirts) but have their own temperature control technology (zipper).
They are also perhaps a little more mature. The zip closure, although a little annoying at times, especially around the neck, separates much of the large hooded pullover. This is a slim fit if it fits true to size. But this is not the only advantage.
If you’re overheated, you don’t have to wriggle out of a heavy hoodie, lift a sweatshirt and fiddle with your hair, and you don’t have to take off your glasses or AirPods along the way. This is a short list for less serious problems, but being able to unbutton your front chest turns out to be basic when you’re tied up with no space, time, or green light to undress just to keep you from drowning in your own sweat.
They are also the perfect extras. For example, if you are getting dressed but are afraid of a cold, you can fit a small zipper into your bag with a hole in the front, which makes it easier to put it on when you need it.
You can, of course, wear it as a top layer, but that requires attention to form, volume, and style. But finding someone who is comfortable and likeable doesn’t have to be a futile struggle. Many of the options below can be top layers, but many of them are intermediate layers or even base layers.
To wear a zip-up sweatshirt, it must be true to size – not too big and not too tight. It needs to be worn under another piece of clothing – a denim jacket, the most common – but still allows you to breathe (and move your torso, and raise your arms above your head). Try wearing it over a thermal shirt, it’s as thin as a T-shirt but much warmer. This takes the pressure off your top layers, so a denim jacket is just as good in November as it is in June.
I have seen each of these sweatshirts on the backs of friends and colleagues in stores and in my own closet. I’ve spent months with some people to get a feel for how they change after wearing and a few washes, and how I like them better when they feel inferior to other people.
I weighed the sizes to see if they matched their labels, if the construction was up to my standards, and most importantly, if I was comfortable in my clothes no matter the circumstances.
Made in Middlesex, North Carolina (hence the name), American Giant’s classic Carolina Midweight Full-Zip is made from 100% cotton. It borrows from vintage American sportswear but updates the silhouette with a modern twist. At the same time, there is an unpleasant tag that spoils the appearance without a logo. I would say remove it or have your tailor do it, as I ended up doing.
But other than that, it’s convenient. The fleece interior has contrasting lace and a zip fastening, as well as two front pockets. It’s a slim fit because while most hoodies add width, this sweatshirt will flatter most men’s stomachs, even those with larger builds. It’s a straight cut that won’t sag around you. Also, the sleeves are just the right length and the armpits are tight enough to slip under another piece of clothing with relative ease.
The Flint and Tinder 10 Years Hoodie has a few small details: a double-lined hood, an internal media pocket, reinforced seams and a drawstring with a metal tip.
But the first thing you should know about the Flint and Tinder 10 Years Full Zip Hoodie is that it is heavy. It’s made from durable 23-ounce fleece from South Carolina, where American Giant also gets its fabric, but it’s like a weighted blanket that fits your body rather than a compact midlayer.
However, it won’t sag or dominate your outfit like a Carhartt sweatshirt or even a Camber sweatshirt. It is similar to what is underneath you, providing you with a protective shell of warmth and comfort. So it’s almost like a jacket. I found myself wearing it (and only it, with just a T-shirt underneath) all of November (when the highs were in the mid 40s). It also keeps me warm and comfortable enough because the zipper is still there when I change out of my “real” clothes for the clothes I have at home.
Will he be better than Gildan? Well, yes, but that’s not the point. For the price of a New York cocktail, it’s not much better than a sweatshirt. The 8oz Gildan Heavyweight Blend Full Zip Hoodie is available in over a dozen colors and won’t pill with a cotton/polyester blend construction.
This hoodie from Buck Mason has a retro look and feel that’s puffy in places and flattering in others. It has a convenient zip fastening, two slant pockets, medium cuffs and a toned metal headband. If you want vintage but prefer new clothes, then this is your best bet.
Go completely invisible in this Asket sweatshirt, all black except for the metal parts, zips and two ends on each drawstring. There’s also a double-sized hood to hide in when you don’t want to be seen (paparazzi, of course).
Abercrombie & Fitch’s standard zip-up sweatshirt is a little oversized and has a logo – shocking, right? – or graphics. It is a solid color except for the silver hardware. However, this option flares out a bit on the sides, which can make you look wider than you really are.
If you’re a fan of Todd Snyder, you already know about his collaboration with Champion. If not, here’s how the American designer has updated some of his favorite pieces from the famous brand. For example, this mid-weight hoodie swaps regular fabric for 18 ounce, deep-coloured, ready-dyed French terry. Don’t worry, the famous reverse weave design still exists.
Runners and non-runners alike will love this zip-up hoodie from tracksmith’s running brand, with lightweight ribbed long cuffs, an internal iPhone pocket and a double-layered hood. Plus, from the antiqued brass hollow eyelets to the coated metal zippers and embroidered logo, this design definitely has a vintage feel to it.
Do you want weight? Add to that the Les Tien Heavyweight Core Hoodie, a heavyweight model with layered cuffs and shiny gold hardware for a finishing touch that really stands out.
Carhart. You know I can’t miss the classics. Their Midweight Hooded Zip Front may not be as recognizable as their beanies or B01 trousers, but this sweatshirt is still owned by Carhartt and everything that bears that name.
The Marine Layer Afternoon Full Zip Basic Zipper is the perfect accessory for lounging around the house… or hitting the gym. It’s soft, warm, and takes you on the road without being too lazy or too technical.
I can guarantee that most men between the ages of 18 and 35 own at least one Nike Sportswear Club Fleece Full Zip Hoodie. For $60, it’s hard to beat. The wool is soft and light, and the jersey itself has some structure, making it incredibly warm for its weight. Plus, this version is available in a dozen colors to match your running shoes or your favorite sports team.
There really is no other hoodie that can match The Real McCoy’s Japanese Ball Park Zip-Up sweatshirt. Its braided tubular construction provides a super-dense, ultra-durable front and soft interior. It will look like a good sweater over time, but won’t roll, tear, or snag like normal jerseys. There are no side seams, and the bucket pockets, my favorite style, are large enough to hold a cold beer or a phone and wallet. In an upright position, nothing will fall unless you lean over.
Made in Canada, home of the reigning champion, the Outclass French Terry Zip Up Hoodie features overlocked seam protection, a YKK (highest quality) two-way zip and an off-white drawstring that brings out the peach color. There is a small pull tab on the left kangaroo pocket, but it’s barely noticeable and you certainly won’t feel it when it’s open.
Made in the brand’s own factory in Canada, the Reigning Champ full zip sweatshirt is an undeniable classic that every man should own. It’s soft, durable and structured, allowing it to be used as a top layer on its own or tucked under an oversized jacket.
Benzak’s BS-1o Heavy Zip Hoodie is based on a vintage design, which means it has atypical pockets and raglan shoulders, two features not commonly found in newer hoodies. It is also double layered for warmth and fastens with two zippers.
Post time: Mar-30-2023