Sweatshirt for the football match on the touchline

Short answer: On the touchline you stand still for hours, and the cold comes up from the ground and in with the wind. A soft sweatshirt with some weight and room to move your arms keeps you warm, so you can focus on the match rather than on freezing.

Why you get cold on the touchline

You stand still while the players run, and the body makes little heat. The wind on an open pitch quickly takes what you have, and cold feet pull the rest of the body down. A sweatshirt over a thin T-shirt is a simple way to stay warm without putting on a thick jacket.

Fabric weight for cold matches

For a match in October or November the sweatshirt should have some substance, so it holds the warmth when you stand still. On a warm September evening a lighter quality may be enough. Feel the fabric in the shop and choose by season and by how sensitive you are to cold.

Fit when you cheer and point

You raise your arms when a goal goes in, and you point and wave. Choose a sweatshirt with room across the shoulders and elbows, so it does not ride up when you move. The length should cover the lower back, so cold wind does not reach the skin each time you stretch.

Layers underneath and on top

Under the sweatshirt a thin, soft T-shirt or a long sleeve top can add a layer. On top, a windproof jacket you already own can keep the wind out. Think layers rather than one thick jumper, so you can take something off if the sun comes out in the second half. If you prefer a hood against the wind, see bamboo hoodie for men.

Legs, feet and hands

The cold also rises from the ground, so think about the legs. You can see the fit at bamboo sweatpants for men, which are soft and easy to wear. Warm socks and gloves also make a difference when you stand for hours on a cold pitch.

Keep it clean and tidy

The touchline means wet grass, mud and coffee in your hand. Wash the sweatshirt following the care label at a low temperature and without fabric softener, so it stays soft. Hang it to dry and brush off dry dirt first. With two, you can swap between matches.

For days other than match days

A sweatshirt that works for the touchline also works on a walk in the woods, an evening out or at home on the sofa. You can see more in the range for men. Choose one you want to put on many days, so it gets used.

Bring it in the bag

Keep an extra sweatshirt or jumper in the bag if you drive far to the match. Then you can switch if one gets wet from rain or mud, and you are ready for the next match without freezing. It is a small thing that makes the day more comfortable.

Frequently asked questions

How thick should a sweatshirt be for the touchline?

For cold days it should have some weight, so it holds the warmth when you stand still. For warm days a lighter quality may be enough.

Should the sweatshirt fit tight or loose?

Loose enough that you can raise your arms and stretch without pulling, but not so big that it flaps in the wind.

What should I wear under the sweatshirt?

A thin, soft T-shirt or a long sleeve top gives an extra layer without taking room. You can take the sweatshirt off if the sun comes out.

See our range of men's bamboo sweater.