What Are the Best Fabric Options for Hoodies and Sweatshirts?

Despite age, gender, or any fashion preferences, hoodies and sweatshirts are almost everyone’s favorite clothing pieces. They are considered essential wardrobe staples because of their versatility to be worn on any occasion.  

Hoodies and sweatshirts are soft and comfortable, giving a warm sensation. Both these clothing items look classy and are well-suited for an everyday casual look. 

If you’re a startup clothing brand looking to create stylish and comfortable hoodies and sweatshirts, working with experienced hoodie manufacturers and selecting the right fabric is an important step.

Continue reading if you want to explore the best fabrics for hoodies and sweatshirts along with certain characteristics that make them a perfect choice.

Fabrics for Hoodies and Sweatshirts 

Fabrics play a vital role in deciding the quality of any garment. Some fabrics offer a premium quality look and feel, however, some do not.

Here are a variety of fabric options to consider for both hoodies and sweatshirts:

1. Fleece

When manufacturing hoodies or sweatshirts for cold regions, fleece is the ultimate choice of many top clothing producers. It is known for its ability to combat cold and capture body heat for a long-lasting warm feeling. 

It feels extremely soft on the skin, giving a snuggly experience to the wearer. Fleece is considered a go-to winter staple, providing a warm and cozy feeling. It is ideal for mild cold environments and is available in different weights. The special thing about this fabric is that it is lightweight and offers easy maintenance which makes it one of the best materials for these clothing items.

2. Cotton

Cotton is one of the most popular and widely used natural fabrics. It is known for its superior moisture-wicking properties and lightweight texture. Cotton is hypoallergenic and feels light on the skin. If your clothing brand also caters to kids' clothes, you can market your clothes as safe and non-toxic. 

Most consumers prefer sweatshirts and hoodies made from pure cotton due to their softness and breathability. Cotton is also a very durable fabric which means it can withstand a variety of conditions and lifestyles.

3. Polyester

Opt for polyester if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option for your garments. It is a synthetic material derived from petroleum. In comparison to cotton, it is less breathable and high-maintenance fabric. 

Polyester is used to manufacture a variety of clothing items but it is important to understand that it does not provide a very premium look to the garment. 

If you’re choosing polyester for your sweatshirts and hoodies, ensure you aren’t targeting consumers in hot regions. It is because this fabric retains moisture on the body, giving the wearer an uncomfortable feeling.

4. Rayon

Rayon, a semi-synthetic fabric derived from plant cellulose. It is made from natural material though it undergoes certain chemical treatments making it a semi-synthetic fabric. Rayon is lightweight and has a very smooth finish. 

Rayon fabric can effectively absorb moisture, however, it does not offer good stretchability and it might shrink with water contact. Hoodies and sweatshirts made from this fabric aren’t good to wear in the gym. Still, if rayon fabric is your choice, the flexibility can be enhanced by blending spandex fabric with it. 

5. French Terry

French terry is one of the best fabrics for hoodies and sweatshirts. The smoothness, midweight texture, stretchability, and premium look are some of its remarkable characteristics. French terry is a type of knit fabric that provides moderate warmth to the wearer. 

This fabric is the primary choice of many clothing producers and apparel brands. It offers a very decent drape and fits perfectly on the body. Hoodies and sweatshirts made from this fabric can be styled with any other clothing item to craft a flattering look.

6. Wool

Wool fabric is popular for making sweaters, hoodies, and other warm clothing items. It is a breathable fabric and is suitable for regulating body temperature. It has the ability to trap body heat providing extra warmth. This fabric is ideal for extreme cold environments. 

In comparison to other fabrics, its surface is rough and can irritate sensitive skin. Wool fabric is also high maintenance which makes it a less favored choice. Furthermore, it is more expensive putting strain on the brand’s budget. 

To summarize, the fabric selection for hoodies and sweatshirts depends on your specific needs and preferences. Fleece and Wool are ideal for warmth, Cotton and French terry are suitable for comfort and breathability, and Polyester blends are suitable for durability. 

By understanding the characteristics of all these fabrics, you can make informed decisions that cater to your target audience’s needs and your brand’s aesthetics. For expert guidance and quality production, consider working with Lydia Design Studio, a leading clothing manufacturer in Atlanta, Georgia.