Raglan or set-in sleeves on a sweatshirt

Short answer: Raglan sleeves run in a diagonal seam from the armpit up towards the neck, while set-in sleeves sit in a seam at the shoulder. Raglan often gives more freedom of movement, while set-in sleeves look tidier and more structured. The choice depends on how you use the sweatshirt.

Two ways to attach the sleeve

A sleeve can be joined to the body in two basic ways. With set-in sleeves the seam runs vertically at the shoulder, where the sleeve meets the body. With raglan sleeves the seam runs diagonally from the armpit up to the neck, so the sleeve takes up part of the shoulder. Both are classic, and both exist in sweat fabric.

What set-in sleeves look like

On a sweatshirt with set-in sleeves the seam sits on the edge of the shoulder and gives a clear line across it. That often makes it look neater and more structured, and the shoulder keeps its shape. In return the seam can be felt under a backpack or a bag, especially in a thicker fabric.

What raglan sleeves look like

Raglan sleeves have a diagonal seam across the shoulder, so the sleeve and the top almost flow into each other. That looks more relaxed and makes it easy to lift your arms. The seam lies further from the top of the shoulder, so it rarely presses, but it can make the shoulders look narrower.

Movement and comfort

If you need to lift your arms, cycle, carry things or move a lot, raglan often feels free because the sleeve follows the body. A set-in sleeve can feel a little tighter over the shoulder if the sweatshirt is snug. For a quiet day at the office or on the sofa the difference is smaller, so you can choose by looks.

Fit across the shoulders

Whether your shoulders are broad or narrow, the two types look different. A set-in sleeve emphasises the shoulder line, so the seam should land where your shoulder ends. Raglan is more forgiving if your measurements fall between two sizes. Try the sweatshirt with your arms hanging and raised, and check that the neck does not pull.

What suits the rest of your clothes

Think about what you wear the sweatshirt with. Under a jacket or coat you already own, raglan can add less bulk under the sleeves. A set-in sleeve often sits well with shirts. If you have a set, you can combine the sweatshirt with bamboo sweatpants for men or a bamboo jogging set in the same style.

Washing and shape

The seams at the sleeve are one of the places where a sweatshirt can go crooked in the wash. Wash it inside out at a low temperature and let it dry lying flat or on a hanger, so the seams keep their line. Pull it smooth while it is damp. That way both raglan and set-in sleeves last longer.

From top to toe

Once the sweatshirt is chosen, you can think about the rest. Soft socks for everyday wear give a calm overall look, and you can see socks for men and women so you have them ready. Remember that the fit of the sweatshirt matters more than the sleeve type, so feel free to try several sizes.

Frequently asked questions

Which sleeve type gives the most freedom of movement?

Raglan often feels the freest, because the seam runs diagonally and follows the movement of the arm. A set-in sleeve can fit well too, if the sweatshirt sits well across the shoulder.

Does raglan or set-in look better?

It is a matter of taste. A set-in sleeve gives a sharper shoulder line, while raglan looks more relaxed. Choose by how you will wear the sweatshirt most.

Do the two types need to be washed differently?

No. Follow the care label, wash inside out at a low temperature, and dry the sweatshirt without a hot tumble dryer so the seams keep their shape.

See our range of men's bamboo sweater.