Tested: The Absolute Best Hoodies for Men to Wear Right Now

Hunting down the best hoodies on the market takes dedicated online digging through countless reviews, Reddit threads, TikToks, and articles to even find the ones worth testing in the first place. Sure, hoodies are simple pieces of clothing that are hard to mess up, but we’re more interested in what separates a good one from a great one, which is why we got hands-on with our final selection. Whether you’re looking for a traditional old-school athletic hoodie, a more rugged workwear hoodie, or an elevated stylish hoodie that wouldn’t look out of place on a runway, you’ll likely find what you’re searching for here.

How we tested

We stuck with pullover hoodies for this guide with one unique exception (sorry to all the zipper fans out there, but you can check out our guide to the best zip-up hoodies), and only went with brands that we personally love that also have enough public support/positive feedback to justify their inclusion.

As for the actual testing of these hoodies, it’s not enough to just hang out and watch TV (even if that’s what you want out of a hoodie), so we made sure to get hands-on with them, testing to see if they’re as comfortable, durable, and warm as they claim to be. We wore them inside while lounging and working, outside for walks, and commuting in the car to determine if each hoodie on our guide was up to snuff. Do keep in mind that we’re based out of Los Angeles, so our definition of cold (around 60°F during the coldest testing day) might be different from yours. We also inspect the seams, stitching, and overall durability of the hoodie to make sure it’s made to last.

Warmth and comfort are definitely major considerations, but style is just as important. Testing the fit and how each hoodie looks on the body, along with the size of the hood, allows us to determine what each option’s strengths are stylistically, and to keep each hoodie on an even playing field, you’ll see them styled with the same pair of jeans and a white tee (from our pals over at Buck Mason).

Measurements: I’m (Cameron, reviewer and writer) 6’2″, and wear 34×30 pants – each hoodie on the guide you see me testing is an XL. I opt for a relaxed fit when I can, and I’ll let you know if a hoodie is offered in other fits.

What To Look For

Material: A (majority) cotton and polyester blend is the most common fabric used in hoodies, but you can forego the synthetic material for a more durable 100% cotton hoodie (although you’ll be missing out on the moisture-wicking properties of the polyester). Conversely, synthetic material is a lot more useful for active/athleisure hoodies, and if you don’t want any synthetics at all but still want stretch, then go for a jersey knit. Cashmere and wool hoodies can be handy for especially cold weather, and make for a reliable winter layer as well.

Fit: If you’re just lounging around or want a familiar-feeling hoodie, a slightly bigger fit is always a comfy choice. But there are plenty of slim-fitting options that feel just as comfortable, and it’s best to go for something more true to your size for layering (over) or running. For those that still feel unsure, go with the oversized fit, because the roomy feel is a big part of what makes them so comfy for a lot of people, and we feel it’s the most classic.

Style: The main differences between hoodie styles come down to the hood, the zipper (or lack of one in this guide’s case), the pocket, and the color. Some hoods may have button closures as opposed to the drawstring, and pockets can vary in size (altering the look of the hoodie as well). This all comes down to personal preference and how you’ll be using the hoodie.

Weight: Generally speaking, your average hoodie falls somewhere between 10oz and 24oz. Heavier hoodies will be warmer and more durable (16 oz. and above is a good rule of thumb), while lighter hoodies (8oz – 12oz) are best for working out and using as a mid-layer.

Hood: There’s a bit of a divide among hoodie wearers: those who don the hood, and those who don’t. There’s nothing wrong with leaving it behind your head, but if you plan on using it for protection, a bigger hood is usually best. On the flip side, those who don’t don may want to go for a smaller hood so it’s out of the way.

Color: You can get a hoodie in pretty much any color you can think of, but the most versatile choices will be your monochromatic colors like black, gray, and white, or earth tones like brown or green.

Carhartt Rain Defender Loose Fit Heavyweight Hoodie

Best Budget Pick: This sturdy pick from Carhartt is unsurprisingly durable, reliable, and built for strenuous scenarios. Made of heavy-duty fabric, it’s able to withstand tough conditions and keep you warm while tackling tough forecasts. Moreover, the brand’s Rain Defender technology repels water to keep you dry, while the loose fit allows for freedom of movement and easy-going comfort.

Off the bat, I loved the weight of this hoodie and how the hood isn’t too big, but still offered enough coverage to protect you from the rain. There’s plenty of coverage if you pull it all the way forward, and it has a soft jersey lining that might just turn you into a hood-wearer. Regarding the DWR finish, I had a coworker spray my back with water while testing it out (without me knowing), and I didn’t feel it at all. It also started raining outside the office a bit, so we had the chance to see how it handled that. With a light drizzle and just a bit of water, the inner fleece layer won’t get wet, but after a while, you’ll start to feel it (this isn’t a rain jacket after all). While the fit is certainly baggy and relaxed, the rib knit cuffs on the sleeves and waist go a long way to keep the silhouette from looking too baggy, while also making sure you stay warm if it’s windy out.

We highly recommend hitting the inside of the hoodie with a lint roller if possible because it pilled quite a bit on the first wear, and it’s very noticeable on clothing. As for the construction, the triple-stitched seams really add to the durability, and you can tell that time went into achieving clean and strong stitches. That, coupled with the heavyweight and thick fabric, makes this a solid workwear choice as well.

Verdict: For just $60, you get a modern, heavyweight hoodie from the legendary Carhartt, with a DWR finish to boot. The soft fleece inside also makes it feel comfortable/warm enough to wear as a daily driver (especially in the winter), with a relaxed fit that’s not too baggy. However, it’s only capable of protecting you in light rain and may run large on smaller people.

Los Angeles Apparel 14oz. Heavy Fleece Pullover Sweatshirt

Best Minimalist Hoodie: Los Angeles Apparel is an offshoot of the once-dominant American Apparel, and they’re based in our hometown of sunny Los Angeles. Not only do they craft high-quality basics built to last, but they do it right here in the States with radical transparency, and true care for its workforce. They also handle the entirety of their manufacturing process, and work to support domestic farmers in the U.S. cotton industry.

In a lot of ways, this hoodie is stripped back stylistically, but it has a really nice heavy weight and a loose fit with a shorter, more modern cut. It has the weight and fit that I personally prefer out of a hoodie, but that doesn’t result in looking big or bulky, helped by a length that doesn’t fall below my waist. It’s also incredibly warm, with a soft fleece lining that rivals the more durable feel of the outside (although that should soften up with wear/washes). I know that some prefer to have a way to adjust your hoodie (usually with a drawstring), but I think the string-free look is really clean, and complements the look of the hoodie.

Regarding warmth, it was great at keeping me warm outside (when it was around 62°F; but it’s guaranteed to keep you warm down to 50°F), and it transitioned well to being breathable inside, so I didn’t get too hot (which was surprising given how warm the fleece is). The stitching is absolutely on point, too, which is especially impressive for a hoodie in this price range. Finally, the hood is, for me, a perfect size; not riding too far up your head so that you look like a wizard, but also providing enough coverage to give you some practical use.

Verdict: It’s clear that Los Angeles Apparel takes the time to create comfortable and stylish pieces that will actually last, and this hoodie is no exception. The weight and fleece lining make this an especially warm pick, too, and the silhouette is a minimalist masterpiece.

Flint and Tinder 10-Year Pullover Hoodie

Best American-Made Hoodie: Flint & Tinder is an American mainstay, never providing a sliver below quality, and they maintain that trend here. Their 10-year guarantee ensures that this cotton/polyester blend is built to last buyers an entire decade, at the very least. Cut and sewn in Los Angeles, the Huckberry house brand garners its pieces from across the nation.

What I immediately appreciate about this hoodie is how straight to the point it is; it has a true-to-size fit that’s still relaxed and perfect for anyone who wants a less shlubby/oversized look. The hood is quite large, which some may like, but others may prefer the look and feel of a smaller one. You can really feel the double lining in it, too, so it works well at keeping your head warm, but is definitely on the heavier side.

The stitching and seams are impeccable across the board (bolstered by twill tape), but you can really feel the reinforcement on the kangaroo pocket with the extra seam (which is great for those who have their hands in their pockets a lot or use it to store heavier items). The spandex in the ribbed waist and cuffs helps lock in heat and prevents the hoodie from moving around too much, and the velvety fleece on the inside does a good job of keeping you warm (and almost makes you want to just wear the hoodie by itself).

Verdict: Made in America and backed by a 10-year guarantee, this hoodie is certainly durable, boasting expert stitching and reinforced seams, but also has a timeless look that works with just about anything. The added polyester gives this a good stretch, too, making it a worthy choice for anyone in need of a less rigid hoodie.

Nike Sportswear Tech Fleece Pullover Hoodie

Best Performance Hoodie: With the release of the OG Nike Tech Fleece ten years ago, Nike introduced us to a new take on fleece, a lightweight fabric made with layers of cotton jersey and synthetic material. This fabric has been a huge success for Nike, and it’s used to this day for a variety of gear in the Nike Tech lineup. It’s safe to say that if the Tech Fleece hoodie hasn’t reached classic status already, it’s well on its way.

This hoodie strikes a really nice balance between active and casual when it comes to both form and function. I also like that you can’t see stitching along the hem on the front (which is hidden on the inside of the waist) because it gives the sweatshirt a cleaner look when facing forward, and the no-seam design philosophy is an iconic staple of Nike Tech apparel. It’s also quite breathable and makes for a solid year-round hoodie in warmer areas, with a lightweight feel that still keeps you warm when battling cold weather.

I will say that the fabric is a bit thin, but this is by design, as Tech Fleece clothing is known for being this way. You can also get the hood to cover nearly your whole face by using the unique bungee adjusters, and they’ll stay out of the way if you’re out on a run (so will your sleeves, thanks to the elastic cuffs). As far as the fit goes, I found that it runs a bit slimmer in the waist section, and since it’s advertised as having an athletic fit, you may want to size up for a more relaxed look and feel.

Verdict: The Tech Fleece hoodie is a modern classic, and this pullover version has all the lightweight performance capabilities of the OG. If you like to wear a hybrid hoodie that’s just as capable during a workout as it is during a chill day at home, then this one’s for you.

Outerknown Sur Snap Hoodie

Best Sustainable Hoodie: Outerknown’s Sur Snap Hoodie is stylish, sustainable, and an ideal choice for shoreside regulars. It’s made using an eco-cognizant blend of organic French terry cotton and hemp, deeming it friendly towards the planet and those who throw it on, and that added hemp also makes the hoodie naturally antimicrobial and stronger overall.

The French terry knit here results in an incredible, out-of-the-box softness that you could really only expect from a loved hoodie you’ve already worn for some time (which the garment dying process definitely adds to). It also drapes/sits on your body in a way that sort of feels like a weighted blanket without feeling too heavy, with a smooth outer layer and a looped inner layer that feels really nice against the skin. There are two side pockets instead of a main one, which are great for keeping your hands warm, but it may be tough to store larger items. They also have a placement on the side that’s a little awkward to reach at first, but you get used to it quickly, and it’s nice to have something different than the traditional kangaroo pocket.

The cuffs and the hem are a little loose, which adds to the relaxed feel of the hoodie but can result in a little cold air sneaking in when you’re outside. As for the hood, there’s a single snap closure that serves as more of a stylistic choice (as you don’t get a traditional drawstring), adding to the overall laid-back vibe of the pullover.

Verdict: After wearing this hoodie and testing it for the guide, it’s safe to say it’s one of the comfiest hoodies I’ve worn. On top of that, it’s made with a sustainable mix of hemp for added durability and antimicrobial properties, along with organic cotton that results in a weight that’s not too heavy and a relaxed fit that’s not too bulky.

Reigning Champ MIDWEIGHT TERRY RELAXED HOODIE

Most Comfortable Hoodie: Reigning Champ is a top-notch athleticwear company that gains much of its influence from the boxing community, and the Canadian brand has gradually garnered a solid rep when it comes to maintaining durability. Crafted from 100% cotton, you can expect this hoodie to last you a good amount of time.

On top of the nice medium weight and relaxed fit, this hoodie has an inner fabric layer that’s a bit like Outerknown’s Sur Snap Hoodie, with a Terrry-like texture that feels akin to a soft cotton towel. The semi-raglan sleeves add to the relaxed look and feel along with the drop shoulders, and I will say that the relaxed XL fit specifically has sleeves that are a bit long, but some may prefer that extra coverage, and Reigning Champ is deliberately going for “generous sleeves and torso” regarding fit. The drawstring on the hood is clean and allows you to get some extra coverage, taking advantage of the dual-layer hood (which is also quite generous in size).

Outside, the hoodie offered solid warmth and wind resistance, but if you want a tighter fit (with a tighter hem and cuffs), then the sweatshirt is offered in a slim and classic fit as well. Construction-wise, it was hard to find a single crooked seam or mistake, with cuffs and a hem that feels noticeably strong with really tight stitching.

Verdict: Sure, this hoodie will undoubtedly keep you warm outside, but there’s something about that oversized feel that just fits your body in a way that makes you want to relax. So if you’re looking for your next WFH companion or designated chilling hoodie, Reigning Champ has your back.

Todd Snyder + Champion Relaxed Hoodie

Our Favorite Collab Hoodie: We got into just how important Champion is in our history section, and Todd Snyder is known for collaborating with legendary labels like them regularly. As big fans of both companies, this hoodie was essential to include in our guide, because it captures that retro Champion pullover style and combines it with Todd Snyder’s expert craftsmanship and modern design philosophy.

Todd Snyder describes this hoodie as feeling “broken in from the get-go”, and honestly, that’s the perfect way to describe my feelings. Maybe it’s that unmistakable Champion patch on the wrist, or the French terry knit that feels super soft on the skin, but there’s something about this hoodie that feels like I’ve had it for ages (and that it’ll last for years to come). Much like the hoodies from Los Angeles Apparel and Lady White Co., this hoodie manages to be oversized and heavyweight without making me look too bulky, with a boxier cut up top and a slight taper through the body. It also opts for a clean, double-layered hood (that’s quite large and kind of points out to the side when you wear it) without a drawstring, and the size is great for wearing something like a hat or beanie underneath. Again, I personally enjoy the cleaner look, but others may prefer the option to adjust.

As for the warmth factor, I felt the hoodie had no problem keeping me toasty in around 63°F weather, but I feel that anything in the low 50s might be pushing it. Some may prefer the feeling of fleece (and the extra warmth it provides), but I prefer the feeling of French Terry, especially for a hoodie that’s going for a more dry hand feel.

Verdict: This is about as classic as you can get – a textbook retro hoodie that will only look better with age, and feels like it’s been handed down from your dad. It’s also a really cool collab piece from a modern label we love here at HICONSUMPTION and an industry legend with deep roots.

Buck Mason Loopback Wool Hooded Sweatshirt

Best Wool Hoodie: Garnered with a co-sign from none other than Tom Brady, the Los Angeles-based brand manages to provide comfort whether you find yourself in New England or L.A. – hell, maybe even in Tampa. With its looped wool interior, this hoodie garners its moniker for a reason, and this implementation assures full comfort and even more insulation.

The back is a little short on this one (for me), but everything else about the fit is really nice, and the hood actually has a reasonable size that most people could wear comfortably, which is a nice change of pace from the traditionally baggier hoods. Wearing it is like wearing one of your favorite, broken-in sweaters, and it doesn’t even feel the slightest bit itchy (which is thanks in large part to the loopback knit, elevating the already soft qualities of wool). Other than the bold use of wool, the hoodie itself has a pretty classic design, with a fit that’s true to size and easy to layer over (especially since it’s not super thick either), and a reasonably-sized kangaroo pocket on the front.

The seams on this hoodie are absolutely immaculate, which is no surprise since they were hand-linked. A very slight criticism I have (that’s entirely a personal style preference), is the size of the cuffs and hem, which are a tad large for my liking. It doesn’t at all detract from the hoodie’s quality, and some may even like the look, but I figured it was worth pointing out. The weave also creates a somewhat see-through look, so dark colors may show through, and you might reveal some skin if you’re wearing it without an undershirt.

Verdict: Buck Mason’s wool take on the hoodie is an incredible stand-alone piece to keep you warm, and a solid winter layer if you need some extra coverage. The looped wool back also guarantees a truly itch-free experience (that feels incredible on the skin), so anyone who’s apprehensive about wool can rest easy.

Lady White Co. Super Weighted Hoodie

Best Heavyweight Hoodie: While the Los Angeles boutique’s t-shirts have garnered tons of attention through the years, its high-quality hoodie is about to get its much-warranted fifteen minutes of fame. The heavy-duty piece is made from high-gauge French terry fabric for maximum stiffness that will wear beautifully over time.

As a personal favorite on this list, I recognize I might be a little biased because I prefer a heavier hoodie, but even putting that aside, this is still one of the most comfortable hoodies I’ve ever worn (rivaling Outerknown’s Sur Snap Hoodie). On top of that, it has a modern look with a raised kangaroo pocket (which is a bit shorter lengthwise compared to the rest of the hoodies on the guide) that gives it a more interesting silhouette. The overclocked edge on the hood is also a nice touch and makes for a more streetwear-friendly look, coupled with the shorter cut around the waist.

The French terry fabric mixed with the heavyweight construction results in a hoodie that’ll keep you warm outside and provide breathability inside (which would be harder to achieve if it was lined with fleece, like the Carhartt hoodie, which got hot inside pretty quickly). Other than the 14oz. Heavy Fleece Pullover from Los Angeles Apparel, I was hard-pressed to find another clean and modern hoodie with a heavier weight that didn’t make me look too boxy. Although the hoodie does feel a bit stiff out of the box, the garment-dyed fabric makes it feel soft, and it should break in with wear.

Verdict: I highly recommend this beefy hoodie to anyone who prefers a heavier weight and a stiffer silhouette – it has a modern look and fit that many other hoodies aren’t offering at the moment, without sacrificing warmth, and it manages to be heavy without being too thick.

Vollebak 100-Year Hoodie

Best Heavy-Duty Hoodie: It takes some confidence to drop something with a 100-year guarantee, but the mad scientists over at Vollebak have a knack for being bold. The British label is known for using material that’s not traditionally found in garments (making a graphene-coated jacket in 2018, and regularly utilizing material that NASA uses), while still making sure to keep things modern and cutting-edge when it comes to style.

This is an absolute beast of a hoodie, that looks great and actually serves multiple purposes because it’s water-repellent, windproof, and, most notably, fireproof. We went ahead and tested the fireproof claim (not because we were skeptical, this is Vollebak, after all, but because this is most definitely the first hoodie we’ve ever come across that claims to be fireproof). Lo and behold, the sweatshirt stood up the might of our lighter, and no smoking, burning, or fire was anywhere to be found. Vollebak teamed up with Polartec (a company that makes flame-resistant garments for the U.S. military), to create the fireproof shell, and you’d be surprised at just how soft it is. This hoodie is definitely a bit stiffer (and teeters a little on jacket territory), but it’s very warm, with a fleece lining that feels noticeably softer than the outer shell, and the stiffness should get better with multiple wears/washes.

Adding to the utility, you get a generous amount of storage with four big zippered pockets on the front that can easily store your EDC and then some. Theoretically, you could use this as a ski/snow hoodie, but we didn’t have a chance to test it in the snow. As for the water resistance, this hoodie had no problem standing up to the light rain we experienced at the time of writing, and while the hood’s size can result in your eyes being covered, that extra protection was appreciated out in the rain.

Verdict: This hoodie is one of the most unique and daring pieces we’ve come across (not many labels, if any, can claim they offer a fireproof hoodie), and makes for a truly heavy-duty option you can use as more than just a hoodie. Three layers of expertly crafted material (with some help from Polartec) come together in a hoodie that may be stiff at first, but it should smooth out over the 100 years you own it.

Men’s HOodies Comparison Chart

A Quick History On The Hoodie

The hoodies we all know and love today can be attributed to Champion, which created the first pullover all the way back in the late 1930s. As a New York brand, Champion initially made and marketed hoodies to protect against the cold for local workers. And since Champion was focused on athletic gear for schools and universities, the garment eventually made its way to the younger crowd. By the 1970s, hoodies were an established part of pop culture, making a very famous cameo in Rocky. Thanks to surfing, hip-hop, skate, and streetwear culture, hoodies have been an undeniable staple in the fashion and athletic scene since the ’90s, and continue to evolve, especially now with the rise of streetwear and athleisure.

Key Phrases To Know

Jersey: Characterized by its stretchy softness, the term refers to a certain knit that offers elasticity without using synthetics. When it comes to hoodies, a jersey knit is perfect for some added stretch without needing elastane.

French Terry: French terry fabric is made using a two-sided knit featuring soft loops on the underside (like a towel), and a smooth surface on the outside. You’ll sometimes see it referred to as loopback or loopback cotton.

Fleece: Made with polyester (usually polyethylene terephthalate/PET), fleece is a lightweight fabric that’s designed to insulate, while also regulating temperature and sweat (made to mimic the natural properties of wool).

Waffle Fabric: Using a waffle knit or weave, this fabric is comprised of warp and weft threads that intertwine in a way that looks like a waffle (hence the name). It’s a thermal fabric as well, making it a solid choice for hoodie interiors.

Brushed: When a fabric is brushed (usually cotton), it means that it’s undergone a process of brushing that raises fine fibers to make for a softer feel. Labels will often brush the inner layer of a hoodie so it feels softer against your skin.

Reverse Weave: The legendary label Champion (which created the very first engineered hoodie as we know it) invented the reverse weave in response to coaches who wanted uniforms that didn’t shrink using a horizontal knitting pattern (rather than a vertical one).

How to style a hoodie

Some may still see hoodies as casual pieces of clothing that are just meant to keep you warm, and while that’s mostly still true, the rise of streetwear and athleisure has opened the door for more refined silhouettes (and more opportunities to wear hoodies). For a tried and true look, a pair of trusty sneakers and jeans will always look good with a hoodie (as long as they match). We can’t promise that you’ll be able to pull off a formal outfit with a hoodie, but something similar, like a crewneck, could do the job.

Honorable mentions

Although we did include a Champion hoodie, the Champion Reverse Weave Pullover Hoodie is just an absolute classic, especially considering the label’s history in the space (as the brand that invented the first pullover).

American Giant’s Classic Pullover is an American-made hoodie constructed with high-quality combed ringspun cotton, and so comfortable that it’s definitely worth a shout-out.

For an athletic hoodie, Lululemon’s Drysense Hoodie is another worthy choice if you’re in need of a workout hoodie that’s designed to wick sweat. We’ve gotten hands-on with it before, and it’s conveniently lightweight.

If you’re interested in a more fashionable hoodie, the Knickerbocker Double Face Waffle hoodie has these unique individual side pockets that make for a unique look (and they’re one of our favorite brands). The waffle knit lining is incredibly warm as well, working with the fleece to keep you insulated.

Quiet luxury is a term that’s getting thrown around a lot, but we have to use it here (somewhat begrudgingly) because it’s the perfect way to describe Sunspel’s Loopback Hoody. It’s made in Portugal with a soft loopback knit and has a simple elegance that’s hard to pass up.

The Best Sweatpants for a Relaxing Fit

You might want some comfy pants to go with your new hoodie. That’s why our best sweatpants guide should be your next stop.