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Every guy needs a hoodie in his wardrobe. Get the right one and a hoodie can be one of the most versatile pieces of clothing you can own, taking you from the couch to the gym to lunch to your next big party. Wear the wrong hoodie and you risk looking like a little kid, or worse, a slob or slacker in desperate need of a closet refresh.
A hoodie makes a great layering piece to keep you warm in the fall and winter; in the spring and summer, keep a hoodie around in case you need a light jacket for when it gets chilly at night. A hoodie is also great to throw on when you’re hanging out in the house, keeping you cozy while working from home or while you’re on the couch watching your favorite TV show or movie.
The best hoodies (a.k.a. a hooded sweatshirt) come in all shapes, sizes and materials, but to really make an impression, here are a few things to consider.
What You Need to Know Before Buying a Hoodie
Materials: Much like T-shirts and sweatshirts, hoodies come in different materials, but we like a cotton blend fabric (typically a cotton and polyester mix) for comfort, durability and softness. A cotton blend hoodie can be tossed in the wash and won’t lose its shape; in fact, it’ll only get softer and more comfortable over time, achieving that oft-desired “worn in” look. We’ve also found a hoodie with an anti-pilling fabric, so it’ll always stay looking like new. Wearing your hoodie on a run or hike? Looking for sweat-wicking materials to keep you dry.
Lining: If you’re looking for a hoodie for warmth, you’ll want to consider one that’s thermal-lined, to add an extra layer between you and the elements. Unlined hoodies are best for the gym or everyday wear, as they’ll be lightweight and less stuffy. We’ve included options for both lined and unlined hoodies on our list.
Features: As its name suggests, a hoodie comes with a built-in hood, that can be adjusted to be more snug or loose using a drawstring pull. The best hoodies will also have two front pockets — one for each hand — and some come with interior pockets too, great for hiding your wallet and keys. A classic hoodie will have ribbed cuffs at the wrists and a ribbed hem at the bottom, to help it keep its shape.
Zip vs. No Zip: Hoodies can be thrown over your head like a sweatshirt, or unzipped like a jacket. We prefer a zip-up hoodie, which is easier to take on and off, and allows you to layer better as well. The best zip-up hoodies also offer versatility — zip it all the way up when it starts to get chilly (say, when you’re warming up by the campfire), then leave it unzipped or half-zipped when it gets warm again.
How to Wear It: The best zip-up hoodies can be worn almost anywhere and with almost anything. Throw it on over a T-shirt and jeans, or wear it under a denim jacket. Going to the gym? A zip-up hoodie looks great with shorts and sneakers. Find a hoodie made from a thicker, weightier material and it can take you into a restaurant or party too; just make sure it’s not the same one you just wore for your workout.
We found three great zip-up hoodies for men, that are as versatile as they are stylish. They’re available in multiple colors and sizes, ensuring that you’ll stay warm, cozy and comfortable no matter your personal style or occasion.
