What's the Best Hoodie Material? Complete Fabric Comparison

Pure cotton hoodies offer that classic soft feel against your skin. The natural fibers breathe well and work great for people with sensitive skin. They're hypoallergenic and gentle.

The downside? Cotton shrinks if you're not careful with washing. It also absorbs moisture instead of wicking it away. You'll find these hoodies perfect for everyday wear and embroidery projects.

Polyester brings durability to the table. These hoodies resist moisture and dry quickly after washing. They hold their shape better than cotton and rarely wrinkle.

The fabric feels lighter on your body. Athletes appreciate how polyester moves sweat away from skin. It works well for outdoor activities and sports teams. Just know that it doesn't have the same soft touch as natural fibers.

This blend gives you the perfect middle ground. You get cotton's softness combined with polyester's strength. The mix resists both shrinking and wrinkling.

The Gildan Heavy Blend Hooded Sweatshirt (G18500) uses a 50/50 split. It weighs 8 oz with brushed fleece inside. The fabric keeps its shape wash after wash. This makes it ideal for custom embroidery and printing projects that need to last. 

The right material makes styling easier. Learn how to style a hoodie for any occasion once you've picked your fabric.

Fleece creates that cozy warmth we all crave in winter. The brushed interior traps heat close to your body. You can find fleece made from cotton, polyester, or a blend of both.

The soft texture feels plush against your skin. Streetwear brands love fleece for its comfort and style. Oversized fleece hoodies became fashion statements. They work beautifully for cold weather and casual looks.

French terry has loops on the inside and a smooth outside surface. It weighs less than fleece but still keeps you comfortable. The fabric breathes better than heavier materials.

This makes it perfect for spring and fall weather. You won't overheat during mild days. Loungewear brands use French terry for its versatility. Athletic hoodies benefit from the lighter weight during workouts. 

Different materials need different care. Check out our guide on how to wash, dry, and fold hoodies to keep your favorite piece looking fresh.

Tri-blend fabric feels incredibly soft and drapes nicely. The rayon adds a silky texture you don't get from regular blends. It has that vintage, lived-in feel right from the start.

Fashion brands choose tri-blend for higher-end collections. The fabric moves with your body in a flattering way. Boutique shops use it for lifestyle hoodies. Just note that it costs more than standard blends.

Bamboo fabric offers an eco-friendly option that feels amazing. The fibers naturally resist bacteria and absorb moisture well. They're softer than regular cotton and better for the planet.

Sustainable brands build their collections around bamboo blends. Customers who care about the environment seek these out. The fabric works great for brands wanting to highlight their green values. It gives you comfort without the environmental guilt.

Adding 2 to 5 percent spandex gives your hoodie stretch. The fabric moves with you instead of restricting motion. It springs back to its original shape after you wear it.

Gym hoodies need this flexibility. Yoga and athletic wear rely on the added stretch. Active people appreciate how the fabric bends without losing form. Performance wear benefits most from this material choice.