Bamboo pullover or sweatshirt, what is the difference

Short answer: A pullover is any top that is pulled on over the head, while a sweatshirt is usually a soft sweat fabric top with a round neck. The terms overlap a lot, so here is a simple overview to help you know what is meant when you shop.

Why the words get mixed up

Clothing words are used differently from shop to shop, and many are borrowed straight from English. The same top can therefore be called a pullover, a sweatshirt or a crewneck. What matters is to look at the picture and the description, so you know what you are getting.

What a crewneck is

A crewneck has a round neckline close to the body and no hood. It is often made of a smooth, slightly thicker fabric with ribbing at the neck, cuffs and hem. It is a classic top that sits well over a T-shirt. See a selection of bamboo sweat for women.

What a pullover covers

Pullover just means that the top is pulled on over the head, with no zip. Crewnecks, hoodies without a zip and thinner knitted sweaters all fall under the word. It tells you how you put it on, but not about the neckline, the fabric or the thickness. Always look at the details.

Where the sweatshirt fits in

A sweatshirt is typically a top in soft sweat fabric with a round neck. In practice the word is often used for the same thing as a crewneck. Some shops use it more broadly for any sweat top, including ones with a hood. Always check whether a hood is included.

Bamboo pullovers and the fabric

A bamboo pullover is made from yarn spun from viscose from bamboo, often blended with other fibres. The fabric usually feels soft and smooth. How warm it is depends mostly on the thickness and the knit, so read the description. Check the fibre content on the individual item too, because it can vary.

Fit and length

The name says nothing about the fit. A crewneck can sit close or loose, short or long. Measure a top you already like and compare with the size guide. That way you avoid sleeves that are too short or a shoulder area that pulls when you move.

Combinations and layers

The crewneck works well as a top layer over a thin layer next to the body. A thin model suits indoors, while a thicker one is nice for cool days. For the feet, socks for women are a natural match, and underneath you can wear bamboo tops for women.

Washing and care

Follow the care label. Choose a gentle programme, turn the top inside out and let it dry completely before you put it away. That way it keeps its shape for longer and the surface stays nice. This applies whether it is called a crewneck, a pullover or a sweatshirt.

Frequently asked questions

Is a crewneck the same as a pullover?

Not quite. A crewneck has a round neckline, while pullover only means it is pulled on over the head. A crewneck is a kind of pullover, but not every pullover is a crewneck.

Are a sweatshirt and a crewneck the same?

Often yes. Both are tops in soft sweat fabric with a round neck and no hood. Some people use sweatshirt for every sweat top, though, so check the picture and description.

Which size should I choose?

Measure a top you already like and compare with the size guide. Think about whether you want it close or loose, and choose accordingly.

You can find the full range at Copenhagen Bamboo.