Hood or round neck in sweat

Short answer: A hood gives shelter and an extra layer at the neck, while a crew neck is flatter and easier to wear something over. If the sweatshirt will usually be your outer layer, there is a lot to be said for the hood.

What the hood does in practice

The hood closes around your neck when it is windy and can be pulled up without needing a hat. That makes it handy for short trips outside and days when the weather changes. On the other hand, it bunches at the neck under another layer, see bamboo sweatshirt for men.

The crew neck is the calm choice

A flat neckline sits neatly under almost anything and does not show through an outer layer. It works under a jacket, a coat or an open shirt, and looks as calm at the office as at home. That makes it the most versatile shape, and it appears among many men's most popular styles.

When the sweatshirt is the outer layer

If you wear the sweatshirt as an outer layer on mild days, the hood gives extra cover if it starts to drizzle or blow. With a crew neck you need a hat or scarf. If the sweatshirt is mostly worn indoors, the hood matters less, and the crew neck is often simpler.

Where they wear differently

The hood wears and discolours first at the edge, where it touches hair and skin, and the drawstring can slip out in the wash. A crew neck has fewer parts and often keeps its shape longer. See the full range among our most popular styles.

Fit around the neck

A crew neck should sit close without tightening. Too wide and it loses shape, too narrow and it presses when you turn your head. A hood is more forgiving, since it does not need to sit close, but it needs a good opening so it does not pull the sweatshirt backwards.

Washing and care

Turn the sweatshirt inside out before washing, so the hood edge and neckline wear less. Take out any drawstrings or tie them loosely so they do not disappear into the channel. Dry it flat, so the neck and hood keep their shape instead of pulling out of line on a hanger.

How to choose

Think about where you will wear it most. For walks, weekends and as an outer layer, the hood is a good choice. For the office, under a jacket and in layers, the crew neck is easiest. If you already own one type, the other usually adds the most new use to your wardrobe.

Frequently asked questions

Should a hood be washed differently

No, but turn the sweatshirt inside out so the hood edge wears less. It also helps to remove the drawstring first so it does not slip into the channel.

Is a hood warmer

Only around the head and neck, which can be enough on a cold day. The rest of the sweatshirt gives the same warmth whatever the neckline.

Which is best for the office

The crew neck, because it is flat and does not bunch against a chair back. It also looks calmer under a jacket or shirt.