Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Hoodie Brands of 2023
Hey there, hoodie lovers! It‘s your resident sweatshirt fanatic here, ready to dive into all things cozy, comfy, and cool. If you‘re like me, you practically live in hoodies – and you‘re always on the hunt for that perfect one to add to your collection.
In this ultimate guide, we‘ll explore the wonderful world of hoodie brands. I‘ve scoured the market, tested countless styles, and narrowed it down to the 15 best options out there. Whether you‘re a loungewear devotee, an athleisure aficionado, or a streetwear savant, I‘ve got you covered (literally).
But first, let‘s talk about why hoodies have become such a wardrobe staple. Once a niche piece of sportswear, the hoodie has evolved into a fashion powerhouse in its own right. According to research firm Global Industry Analysts, the global hoodie market is expected to reach $3.2 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 5.2% from 2020 to 2027.
The rise of remote work, coupled with the infiltration of streetwear into high fashion, has propelled the hoodie from loungewear to luxury. Brands like Vetements and Off-White have sent high-end hoodies down the runway, while celebrities like Kanye West and Billie Eilish have made oversized sweatshirts their signature look.
So what makes a truly great hoodie? Is it the softness of the fleece, the weight of the fabric, or the precision of the fit? Arguably all of the above – but what matters most is how it makes you feel. The perfect hoodie should envelop you like a wearable hug, while still making you feel put-together and stylish.
Without further ado, let‘s jump into my definitive ranking of the 15 best hoodie brands you need to know about in 2023. I‘ve included options for every budget, style, and preference, so you‘re sure to find your new favorite.
The 15 Best Hoodie Brands
1. Reigning Champ
Highlights:
- Rugged yet refined aesthetic
- Signature Midweight Terry fabric is ultra-soft and durable
- Slim, tailored fits
- Subtle branding for a minimalist look
- Proudly made in Canada
Price Range: $115-$185
Reigning Champ has earned its spot at the top of my list for good reason. This Canadian brand has perfected the art of elevated basics, crafting hoodies that feel as great as they look. Their signature Midweight Terry fabric strikes the perfect balance between softness and structure, and comes in at a hefty 500 GSM.
I own several Reigning Champ hoodies, and can attest to their exceptional quality and fit. The slimmer silhouette is flattering without being restrictive, and the attention to detail (like flatlocked seams and sturdy ribbing) is unparalleled. Plus, the subtle branding makes them versatile enough to dress up or down.
If you‘re looking for a hoodie that will stand the test of time, Reigning Champ is the way to go. They‘re an investment piece, but one that you‘ll reach for time and time again.
2. Flint and Tinder
Highlights:
- Heirloom quality construction with reinforced seams
- Signature 23 oz. French terry fabric
- Structured, flattering fits
- Unique cross-weave texture
- 10-year guarantee
Price Range: $98-$248
Flint and Tinder is a relative newcomer to the hoodie game, but they‘ve quickly made a name for themselves with their commitment to quality craftsmanship. Based in New York City, the brand prides itself on using only the finest materials and construction methods.
Their signature 10-Year Hoodie is a testament to this ethos. Made from a beefy 23 oz. French terry, it‘s built to last a decade (and beyond). The fabric has a unique cross-weave texture that sets it apart from your average sweatshirt, and only gets better with age.
I was lucky enough to snag one of these bad boys on sale, and it‘s quickly become one of my most prized possessions. The structured fit is universally flattering, and the reinforced seams and hardware make it feel virtually indestructible. If you want a hoodie that will see you through thick and thin, Flint and Tinder has you covered.
3. Everlane
Highlights:
- Certified organic cotton fabrics
- Minimalist, gender-neutral designs
- Transparent pricing model
- Sizes XXS-XXL
- Affordable basics under $100
Price Range: $60-$88
For those who prefer a more understated look, Everlane is the perfect hoodie brand. Known for their commitment to radical transparency, the San Francisco-based company offers a range of simple, well-made basics at affordable prices.
Their hoodies are crafted from certified organic cotton that‘s both soft and sustainable. I love the minimalist designs and gender-neutral colors – they‘re the kind of sweatshirts that look effortlessly cool on everyone.
One of the standout features of Everlane‘s hoodies is the size range. They offer sizes XXS-XXL, making them one of the most inclusive brands on this list. And with most styles coming in under $100, they‘re a great option for those on a budget.
4. Lady White Co.
Highlights:
- Simple, timeless silhouettes
- Garment-dyed for unique color variations
- Beefy 20 oz. fleece
- Made in USA
- Available in 5 core colors
Price Range: $120-$175
If you‘re a fan of the classics, Lady White Co. is the hoodie brand for you. Based in Los Angeles, the company specializes in timeless, American-made basics that are built to last.
Their hoodies are cut from a hefty 20 oz. fleece that‘s garment-dyed for a unique, lived-in look. The dyeing process means that each hoodie has slight color variations, making it feel like a one-of-a-kind piece.
I have the Lady White Co. hoodie in the "Faded Black" color, and it‘s become a staple in my wardrobe. The relaxed fit and vintage-inspired details (like the V-stitch at the neck) give it a cool, effortless vibe. And the fact that it‘s made in the USA is a big selling point for me.
5. Uniqlo
Highlights:
- Amazing value for the price
- Soft, medium-weight sweat material
- Streamlined fits in tons of color options
- AIRism quick-drying tech
- Sizes XXS-3XL
Price Range: $19.90-$39.90
On the other end of the spectrum, we have Uniqlo – the Japanese fast-fashion brand that‘s beloved for its affordable, high-quality basics. While their hoodies may not have the heirloom quality of some of the other brands on this list, they‘re an unbeatable value for the price.
Uniqlo‘s hoodies are made from a soft, medium-weight sweat material that‘s comfortable without being too heavy. They come in a range of streamlined fits and colors, from classic neutrals to trendy pastels.
One of the standout features of Uniqlo‘s hoodies is the AIRism technology, which wicks away moisture and dries quickly. This makes them a great option for workouts or travel.
I always stock up on Uniqlo hoodies when they go on sale – you can often snag them for under $20! They‘re the perfect throw-on-and-go piece for running errands or lounging at home.
Hoodie Comparison Table
| Brand | Fabric Weight | Size Range | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reigning Champ | 500 GSM | XS-XXL | $115-$185 |
| Flint and Tinder | 23 oz. | XS-XXL | $98-$248 |
| Everlane | 270 GSM | XXS-XXL | $60-$88 |
| Lady White Co. | 20 oz. | XS-XXL | $120-$175 |
| Uniqlo | 340 GSM | XXS-3XL | $19.90-$39.90 |
The Hoodie‘s Fashion Evolution
As I mentioned earlier, the hoodie has come a long way from its humble beginnings as a functional piece of sportswear. Let‘s take a closer look at how this wardrobe staple has evolved over the years.
The hoodie as we know it today was first introduced in the 1930s by sportswear brand Champion. Originally designed as a practical layer for athletes, the hoodie quickly gained popularity among workers and students for its comfort and durability.
In the 1970s and 80s, the hoodie became associated with hip hop culture and streetwear. Brands like Stüssy and Supreme helped to popularize the oversized, graphic-print hoodie as a fashion statement.
Fast forward to the 2010s, and the hoodie had infiltrated high fashion. Designers like Virgil Abloh and Demna Gvasalia sent luxe, deconstructed hoodies down the runway, while celebrities like Kanye West and Rihanna made them a key part of their personal style.
Today, the hoodie is more versatile than ever. It can be dressed up with tailored trousers and heels, or dressed down with sweatpants and sneakers. The rise of athleisure and work-from-home culture has only increased its popularity, cementing its status as a true wardrobe essential.
How to Style Your Hoodie Like a Fashion Pro
So you‘ve found the perfect hoodie – now what? Styling a sweatshirt can be tricky, but with a few key tips, you can take your hoodie game to the next level.
Here are some of my favorite ways to wear a hoodie:
- Layered under a coat: Pair your hoodie with a structured coat (think a trench or a blazer) for a cool, streetwear-inspired look.
- Tucked into high-waisted pants: A cropped or fitted hoodie looks great tucked into high-waisted jeans or trousers. Add a belt for extra polish.
- With a midi skirt: Balance out the casualness of a hoodie with a feminine midi skirt. Bonus points if it has a slit!
- Under overalls: Layer your hoodie under a pair of overalls for a cute, retro-inspired look.
- With leather pants: Toughen up a soft hoodie with some sleek leather pants. Add heels for a night-out look, or sneakers for a more casual vibe.
Remember, the key to styling a hoodie is to balance out the proportions and mix up the textures. Don‘t be afraid to experiment and make it your own!
The Bottom Line
Phew, that was a lot of hoodie talk! I hope this guide has given you a better sense of the best hoodie brands out there, and how to style them like a pro.
At the end of the day, the perfect hoodie is the one that makes you feel like your best self – whether that‘s cozy and comfortable or cool and stylish (or both!). Don‘t be afraid to invest in a quality piece that will last you for years to come.
And if you‘re ever in doubt, just remember: a hoodie is like a hug you can wear. And who doesn‘t love a good hug?
Happy hoodie hunting, my friends!
