Hoodie vs. Sweatshirt: What's the Difference?
Edited by Aimie Carlson || By Janet White || Published on January 26, 2024
A hoodie is a sweatshirt or a jacket with a hood, often including a front pouch or zipper, while a sweatshirt is a loose, warm top typically made of thick cotton without a hood.
Key Differences
A hoodie is characterized by the addition of a hood, which can provide extra warmth or protection from the weather. A sweatshirt, lacking a hood, is a simpler garment focusing solely on warmth and comfort.
Hoodies often come with additional features like front pockets or a zipper, making them versatile for various weather conditions. Sweatshirts, typically pullover style, offer a more straightforward design with a focus on warmth and ease of wear.
The hoodie's design allows for more stylistic variations, including graphics on the hood or additional embellishments. Sweatshirts are often seen as more classic or traditional, with a focus on comfort and simplicity.
Hoodies are popular in casual and streetwear fashion, offering both functionality and style. Sweatshirts are a staple in athletic and casual wear, appreciated for their comfort and ease.
In terms of material, both hoodies and sweatshirts are usually made of similar fabrics like cotton or fleece, prioritizing warmth and comfort.
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Comparison Chart
Design Feature
Includes a hood
No hood
Additional Features
May have pockets, zippers
Generally lacks additional features
Style Variations
More varied, includes graphics and embellishments
More classic, often plain or with minimal design
Fashion Use
Popular in streetwear, casual fashion
Common in athletic, casual wear
Material
Cotton, fleece, or blends
Typically thick cotton, fleece
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Hoodie and Sweatshirt Definitions
Hoodie
A hoodie is a sweatshirt with an attached hood.
He wore a hoodie to stay warm during the chilly evening.
Sweatshirt
Sweatshirts are commonly used in athletic and casual settings.
She wore her favorite sweatshirt to the casual gathering.
Hoodie
Hoodies are versatile for different weather conditions.
She put on a hoodie for her morning jog.
Sweatshirt
A sweatshirt is usually a pullover, without a hood.
The sweatshirt kept her warm during the cool evening.
Hoodie
A hoodie can be a fashion statement in casual wear.
His bright red hoodie stood out in the crowd.
Sweatshirt
A sweatshirt is a loose, warm garment typically made of thick cotton.
He pulled on a sweatshirt after his workout.
Hoodie
Hoodies often include features like pockets or zippers.
She zipped up her hoodie as the wind picked up.
Sweatshirt
Sweatshirts can be plain or have minimal design elements.
Her plain grey sweatshirt matched everything.
Hoodie
Hoodies often feature graphic designs or logos.
The band's logo was printed on the front of the hoodie.
Sweatshirt
Sweatshirts prioritize comfort and ease of wear.
On lazy days, he preferred wearing a soft sweatshirt.
Hoodie
A hooded garment, especially a hooded sweatshirt.
Sweatshirt
A usually long-sleeved, collarless pullover made traditionally of heavy cotton jersey that is napped on the interior, sometimes having a hood.
Hoodie
A sweatshirt with an integral hood and, sometimes, a large kangaroo pocket at the front.
You can buy hoodies on the cheap in summer.
Sweatshirt
A zippered jacket of a similar material and design.
Hoodie
A young person wearing such a sweatshirt, usually a male, stereotypically associated with antisocial behaviour.
Sweatshirt
A loose shirt, usually made of a knit fleece, for athletic wear and now often used as casual apparel.
Hoodie
The hooded crow, Corvus cornix.
Sweatshirt
A shirt worn against the skin, usually under other clothing, to absorb sweat.
Sweatshirt
Cotton knit pullover with long sleeves worn during athletic activity
FAQs
What is a hoodie?
A hoodie is a sweatshirt with a hood attached.
Is a hoodie considered sportswear?
Initially designed for athletes, hoodies are now widely worn for both sportswear and casual use.
Are hoodies suitable for all seasons?
Hoodies are more suitable for cooler weather, but lightweight versions can be worn in warmer seasons.
Can hoodies have zippers?
Yes, hoodies can be either pullover or zip-up styles.
Can hoodies be layered with other clothing?
Yes, hoodies are often layered with t-shirts, jackets, or coats.
Are hoodies acceptable in a business casual setting?
Generally, hoodies are too casual for business settings but may be acceptable in more relaxed work environments.
Are hoodies casual or formal wear?
Hoodies are generally considered casual wear.
What is a sweatshirt?
A sweatshirt is a loose, warm shirt typically made from heavy cotton or a cotton blend fabric.
Can hoodies have pockets?
Yes, many hoodies have a front pouch or side pockets.
Are sweatshirts suitable for layering?
Yes, sweatshirts can be easily layered with shirts, t-shirts, or jackets for extra warmth.
Do sweatshirts have hoods?
No, sweatshirts typically do not have hoods. If it has a hood, it's usually called a hoodie.
What's the difference between a sweater and a sweatshirt?
A sweater is knitted or crocheted, while a sweatshirt is made of heavy cotton fabric.
What materials are hoodies made from?
Hoodies are typically made from cotton, polyester, or a blend of both.
Can sweatshirts have zippers?
Typically, sweatshirts do not have zippers. Those with zippers are often referred to as zip-up hoodies.
Can sweatshirts have pockets?
Sweatshirts can have pockets, but they are less common than on hoodies.
Are sweatshirts fashionable?
Yes, sweatshirts are popular in casual and streetwear fashion.
Can sweatshirts shrink?
Yes, especially if they are made of cotton, sweatshirts can shrink when washed in hot water or dried at high temperatures.
How do you wash a hoodie?
Wash in cold water and tumble dry on low, avoiding high heat to prevent shrinkage.
Are sweatshirts good for workouts?
Yes, sweatshirts are often worn for workouts in cooler environments.
What sizes do sweatshirts come in?
Sweatshirts are available in a range of sizes from children's to plus sizes.
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
Edited by
Aimie CarlsonAimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.
