hoodies

A hoodie, or hooded sweatshirt, is a casual garment that combines a hood with a sweater-like body. Common features include a drawstring hood, a front pocket (often a kangaroo pocket), and a zip or pullover closure. The fabric is typically cotton fleece or a cotton–poly blend, though heavier fleece or performance fabrics are used for athletic and outdoor versions. Hoodies are worn for warmth, comfort, and layering.

Originating in the United States in the 1930s, hooded sweatshirts were marketed by brands such as Champion to provide warmth for workers. The design spread to colleges and sports teams, later becoming a staple in casual fashion during the 1960s and 1970s. By the late 20th century, hoodies were entrenched in streetwear and youth culture and are now widely worn by people of many ages and backgrounds.

Variants include pullover and zip-front styles, fleece-lined versions for winter, and performance hoodies with moisture-wicking fabrics. Fashion hoodies frequently feature oversized fits, graphic prints, or branded logos. Care typically involves machine washing in cold or warm water and tumble drying on low; some fabrics require air drying to preserve texture. Proper care helps maintain softness and fit.

Culturally, hoodies have associations with sports, music, and street fashion, but they have also been linked to security concerns in public spaces and stereotype-based judgments. Discussions about safety and profiling have accompanied their mainstream visibility. Manufacturers increasingly pursue sustainable materials and ethical production, including organic cotton, recycled fibers, and responsible dyeing practices.