hoodie

A hoodie, or hooded sweatshirt, is a casual garment that combines a hooded top with a sweatshirt. It is designed for warmth and comfort and is typically made from cotton, polyester blends, or fleece. Common features include a drawstring-adjustable hood, a front pocket (often a kangaroo pocket or split pocket), and ribbed cuffs and hem. Hoodies may be worn alone or as layering and come in a range of weights.

Hoodies come in pullover and zip-front styles. Variants include fleece-lined or thermal versions for cold weather, cropped or oversized cuts for fashion, and performance hoodies with moisture-wicking or breathable fabrics for athletic use. Details may include reinforced stitching, branding, thumbholes, or reflective panels.

Materials commonly used are cotton, cotton-polyester blends, and fleece. Care typically involves machine washing in cold or warm water and tumble drying on low; high heat can shrink or wear the fabric. Some technical hoodies use elastane or other fibers to add stretch or moisture management.

The hooded sweatshirt emerged in the United States in the 1930s as workwear for workers in cold environments and later found popularity in sports and athletic wear. It gained broader cultural prominence in the late 20th century through youth culture and fashion, becoming a staple in casual wardrobes worldwide. Today it is widely used for warmth, sports, and streetwear, with many styles and brands.