What to Look for When Buying a Hoodie Online

• May 19 2025, by Charlie Frost
• 4 min reading time

Buying a hoodie online might seem easy—until it shows up and the fit’s off, the fabric feels cheap, or the print cracks after one wash. Whether you’re shopping for premium streetwear or everyday essentials, knowing what to look for makes all the difference between a hoodie that lasts and one that lets you down.

Here’s what to check before you click “add to cart.”

1. 100% Cotton Is Better Than Poly-Cotton Blends

When it comes to hoodies, fabric is everything. A 100% cotton hoodie will feel more natural, breathe better, and age with character. In contrast, poly-cotton blends may look decent at first, but they often pill, lose shape, and trap heat over time.

Pro tip: Always check the product description for fabric breakdowns. Premium hoodies will proudly highlight their 100% cotton construction—because it means quality.

2. Understand GSM: Not All “Heavyweight” Is Equal

GSM (grams per square metre) tells you how thick and dense the fabric is. It’s a game-changer when shopping online because you can’t touch the product in person.

Here’s a breakdown:

• 385 GSM – Just above a heavyweight T-shirt; too light for a proper hoodie.

• 420 GSM – Lightweight hoodie territory. Better for layering, not ideal for warmth or structure.

• 500+ GSM – Now you’re in luxury territory. These hoodies have weight, structure, and a premium feel that elevates your look instantly.

Look for: 500–550 GSM for a true heavyweight hoodie that doesn’t just look good but lasts.

3. Check the Size Guide and Product Description (Especially for Cropped Fits)

Hoodie fits vary a lot across brands, especially with cropped or boxy silhouettes. To avoid surprises, always check the size guide and read the product description closely.

What to look for:

• Body length: Is it cropped or standard?

• Sleeve length and shoulder drop

• Notes like “oversized fit” or “true to size”

Taking an extra minute here ensures you’re not stuck with a return or resale situation.

4. Know Your Print Quality: DTG, Screen Print & Embroidery > DTF

The way a design is applied matters just as much as the hoodie itself. Poor print methods fade, crack, or peel—especially after washing.

Here’s the hierarchy:

• ✅ DTG (Direct-to-Garment): Great for detailed, colourful prints

• ✅ Screen Printing: Super durable and bold

• ✅ Embroidery: Premium texture and long-lasting

• ❌ DTF (Direct-to-Film): Often looks plastic-like, cracks easily, and doesn’t age well

Pro tip: Brands that care about quality will usually mention their printing method. If they don’t, ask—or steer clear.

5. Check the Hardware: Zips Matter

One underrated detail to look out for? Zips and hardware. A high-quality hoodie should come with branded, reliable zippers like YKK or RiRi—known for their smooth action and long life.

Bonus feature: Look for a double zipper, which adds functionality and style, especially if you like adjusting how your hoodie sits when layered.

Why it matters: Cheap hardware is often the first thing to break, jam, or tarnish—ruining the overall feel and function of your hoodie.

---

Final Thoughts

The best hoodies don’t just look good—they feel good, fit well, and last. Before you buy a hoodie online, make sure you're checking the fabric (go 100% cotton), the GSM weight (aim for 500+), the sizing info (especially with cropped fits), and the printing method (avoid DTF).

A few minutes of research can save you a lot of disappointment—and help you build a wardrobe that’s both stylish and built to last.

• Share on:
• WhatsApp
• Deel
• X
• Pin it
• Messenger
• Email
• Share

---