The two layers of the hood, why the fabric is double

Short answer: A hood is often made in two layers because that gives it the shape, weight and warmth to stay in place around the head. The inner layer also hides seams and edges, so the hood feels soft and looks clean, both up and down.

Why two layers in the hood

A hood with only one layer of fabric easily goes limp and collapses when it is not up. Two layers give enough weight and body for the hood to keep a calm shape around the neck and head. At the same time there is more fabric to hold the warmth when it is windy.

Hidden seams on the inside

When the hood is made of two pieces sewn together inside out and then turned, the seams lie inside. That gives a clean edge with no raw fabric along the face and stops a coarse seam rubbing against the cheek. Check on the inside that the edge lies smooth and the lining feels equally soft all the way round.

Shape and drape

Two layers give the hood more shape. It can stand up a little at the neck and fall neatly when it is down, instead of hanging like a rag. That makes the sweater look tidier. The fabric should not be so stiff that the hood presses on the neck when you sit in the car or at a desk.

Warmth and weather

The double hood is a good starting point for cool days, because more layers trap air. But a hood is not rainwear, and you should not count on it keeping you dry. For rain or serious cold you need something on top. Use the hood as extra warmth when it is merely cool.

The cord and the channel

Many hoods have a cord running in a channel along the edge. Two layers make the channel stronger and stop the cord pulling the fabric crooked. Check that the holes for the cord are reinforced and that the cord glides easily. If it is too long, you can tie a small knot in the end so it does not disappear.

How the hood fits

The hood must go up over the head without pulling at the neck, and have room for a cap or earplugs if you use them. If it is too tight it is uncomfortable, and if too loose it falls down. Put the hood up and down several times, and check whether it lies calmly on your back for a few hours. That goes for any sweater and for a bamboo hoodie for men.

Washing and drying

The double hood dries more slowly than the rest of the sweater, because two layers hold moisture. Let it dry fully before you fold it, so the hood does not smell stale. Wash inside out at a low temperature and straighten the hood while it is damp. That way it keeps its shape, also together with bamboo sweatpants for men in the same set.

When two layers are too much

Some prefer a single, thin hood, because it takes up less room under a jacket or in a backpack. If you choose by how often you use the hood and whether you wear a jacket over it, you quickly find the right one. For your feet there are socks for men and women, so you have something soft to wear.

Frequently asked questions

Is a two-layer hood always warmer than a one-layer hood?

As a rule yes, because two layers trap more air. It also depends on the thickness of the fabric, so feel the fabric and choose by how quickly you get cold.

Can I wash a two-layer hood like the rest of the sweater?

Yes, wash the whole sweater by the care label. Let the hood dry fully, since two layers take longer, and straighten it while it is damp.

Why does my hood collapse at the neck?

If the fabric is thin or only one layer, the hood lacks weight. See whether you can find a hood with two layers that stands more calmly.

You can find the full range at Copenhagen Bamboo.