The Difference Between Hoodies And Sweatshirts

This guide explains the difference between hoodies and sweatshirts from a practical B2B sourcing perspective, helping brands reduce sampling risk, control quality, and make faster purchasing decisions.

Hoodies and crew neck sweatshirts have a lot in common at first glance. Both are classic sportswear - usually made from the same fabric. Many people of different ages and genders wear them. The main difference, of course, is that the hoodie has a hood, while the sweatshirt doesn't.

There are obvious differences between hoodies and round neck sweatshirts in appearance, but in general, hoodies are called cardigan sweaters. A hoodie is a sweater with a zipper attached to a hat. It is usually long-sleeved. This kind of clothes is suitable for autumn. People who have the habit of running in the morning will also wear this type of clothes. Hoodies are generally grey toned, sporty and can be paired with shorts or trousers. However, its fashion sense is not strong, and it looks relatively simple. Of course, people who like it can also wear it with a different feeling.

When to choose a sweatshirt over a hoodie?

Sweatshirts and hoodies are warm garments that can both create a sporty feel and relax elegant outfits. Still, sweatshirts are definitely more popular than hoodies in certain clothing combinations. On the other hand, sweatshirts don't always fit every look and should give way to hoodies to avoid potential faux pas. In our previous style guide on our blog, we rounded up 6 favorite hoodie outfits, if you want to know more, read this post.

In winter and windy conditions

Key Insights for Buyers

• Both hoodies and sweatshirts are perfect for cold weather: Thick fabrics such as French terry cotton and closed waistbands at the sleeves and torso help provide perfect insulation. However, the hood provides extra protection to keep the head and ears warm: this is obviously especially useful in windy times when you don't have a hat on hand. But even without a hijab, it can keep the neck warm. So a hoodie is definitely better in those rough conditions than a crewneck sweatshirt.
• You can also wear a sweatshirt in a simple color like gray, navy, or black when your in-laws invite you to dinner. You can even wear a shirt underneath if you want a little touch up. On the other hand, hoodies are at least debatable and mostly unsuitable for the occasion. As already mentioned: collared shirts should not be worn under a hoodie. Plus, the hoodie (perhaps because of its controversial history) still isn't quite suitable for more formal events -- like dining with rather boxy parents-in-law.
• Both hoodies and sweatshirts look casual and give a relaxed feel. But with layered outfits, a hoodie can offer more possibilities, but paradoxically, it can look more sophisticated and refined. The unique hood can be combined with jeans, bomber jackets or leather jackets for added interest. You can also wear a fitted T-shirt under a zippered hoodie. Crew neck sweatshirts have more limited options for layered looks.
• As you can see, hoodies and sweatshirts have their pros and cons. Of course, it also depends on the occasion and personal taste to decide which is more suitable. But one thing is clear, for maximum versatility, both are absolute must-haves that belong in every wardrobe. However, with these timeless classics, you should also pay attention to the quality and merchandise, as they will never go out of style. If you really don't have a sweater or hoodie, or just can't afford it, take a look at our sweatshirt collection, which includes both classic options.

Action Checklist

1. Confirm fabric, size grading, and trim specifications before sampling.
2. Lock in MOQ, lead time, and quality checkpoints in writing.
3. Request pre-production confirmation for labels, packaging, and compliance standards.
4. Use a pilot run to validate fit, durability, and customer feedback before scale-up.

If you are planning OEM/ODM underwear sourcing, prepare your tech pack and target quantity first to speed up quotation and sample approval.