16 Different Types Of Hoodies And How They Stack Up For Business Branding

When it comes to custom apparel, few garments are as popular as hoodies. 

From employee uniforms and company merchandise to school spirit wear and promotional giveaways, hoodies work for everything. This is why they have become a go-to choice for businesses and organizations looking to showcase their brand. 

But with so many different hoodie styles available, choosing the right one isn’t always easy.

That’s why in this blog, I am going to walk you through the most popular types of hoodies and explain how each one stacks up for business branding. 

So, read on to know:

• The different types of hoodies
• The most popular hoodie styles and materials
• The pros and cons of each type
• Which hoodies work best for embroidery and printing
• And how to choose the right hoodie for your brand

Key takeaways

• Hoodies come in a wide range of styles, materials, and fits.
• The best hoodie for your business depends on how you plan to use it.
• Heavyweight and fleece hoodies are excellent for premium branding and embroidery.
• Lightweight hoodies are ideal for warmer weather and promotional events.
• Zip-up and pullover hoodies each offer unique advantages for custom apparel.
• Choosing the right hoodie helps improve both comfort and brand presentation.

What are the different types of hoodies?

For starters, hoodies can be categorized in several different ways. While some are designed based on their style, others are classified by the material they’re made from, how they fit, or the purpose they serve.

For instance, a pullover hoodie and a zip-up hoodie are two different styles. On the other hand, a fleece hoodie and a lightweight hoodie are categorized based on the fabric or weight of the garment.

Then there are hoodies designed for specific uses, such as dye sublimation printed hoodies for athletic wear or high-visibility hoodies for construction crews.

Overall, here are some of the most popular types of hoodies out there: 

Different hoodie styles

1. Pullover hoodie

As the name suggests, a pullover hoodie doesn’t have a zipper. Instead, it is pulled over the head and features a kangaroo pocket on the front.

Pullover hoodies are one of the most popular choices for custom apparel printing because they offer a large, uninterrupted area for logos, graphics, and artwork. 

Pullover hoodies are best for:

• Company merchandise
• School spirit wear
• Sports teams
• Promotional apparel

2. Zip-up hoodie

A zip-up hoodie features a full-length zipper down the front, making it easy to put on and take.

Businesses choose zip-up hoodies because they’re versatile and work well as part of an employee uniform. Staff can easily layer them over T-shirts or polos depending on the weather.

Here, the zipper does reduce the available printing area on the front. But logos embroidered on the left chest still create a clean and professional appearance.

Zip-up hoodies are best for:

• Employee uniforms
• Corporate apparel
• Retail staff
• Service businesses

3. Quarter-zip hoodie

The quarter-zip hoodie combines the comfort of a traditional hoodie with the polished look of a quarter-length zipper.

Unlike a full zip-up hoodie, the zipper here only extends partway down the chest, leaving more room for branding while still making the hoodie easier to wear than a pullover.

It is a popular option for businesses looking for something that feels a little more professional without sacrificing comfort.

Quarter-zip hoodies are best for:

• Office teams
• Corporate events
• Branded company apparel

4. Oversized hoodie

The oversized hoodie has become increasingly popular in recent years thanks to its relaxed, comfortable fit.

Originally associated with streetwear, oversized hoodies are now widely used for company merchandise, college apparel, and lifestyle brands.

They work especially well for bold back prints and oversized graphics because of their larger surface area. 

Oversized hoodies are best for:

• Lifestyle brands
• Company merchandise
• College apparel
• Large printed designs

5. Cropped hoodie

Cropped hoodies feature a shorter length than traditional hoodies and are especially popular in women’s fashion and fitness apparel.

While they aren’t commonly used for employee uniforms, they can be a great choice for gyms, fitness studios, athletic brands, and promotional merchandise aimed at younger audiences.

In fact, because of this varied audience, cropped hoodies can use both DTG or custom embroidery printing for creating visuals on the apparel. 

Cropped hoodies are best for:

• Fitness brands
• Gym apparel
• Retail merchandise
• Promotional collections

6. Sleeveless hoodie

A sleeveless hoodie offers the casual look of a hoodie while providing greater freedom of movement. They’re commonly worn during workouts, outdoor training sessions, and athletic activities where full sleeves feel restrictive.

Although more of a niche option, sleeveless hoodies work well for sports teams and fitness-related businesses.

Sleeveless hoodies are best for:

• Gyms
• Sports teams
• Athletic training
• Fitness events

In short, here’s how different hoodie styles compare: 

Different hoodie materials

7. Fleece hoodie

If comfort is your top priority, there’s nothing better than a fleece hoodie.

Fleece is soft, warm, and comfortable, making it one of the most popular materials for cooler weather. That’s why you’ll often see fleece hoodies used as employee apparel, school spirit wear, and company merchandise.

From a branding standpoint, fleece performs exceptionally well because the thicker fabric provides a stable surface for stitched logos. Also, it allows seamless screen printing for bolder designs.

Fleece hoodies are best for:

• Employee apparel
• Company merchandise
• Embroidered logos
• Fall and winter wear

8. Heavyweight hoodie

A heavyweight hoodie is made using thicker fabric than a standard hoodie or sweatshirt, giving it a premium look and feel.

Businesses choose heavyweight hoodies when they want their branded apparel to be more durable and high-end. That’s why these hoodies are popular for company merchandise, premium giveaways, and retail-quality branded apparel.

Heavyweight hoodies are best for:

• Premium branded apparel
• Company merchandise
• Employee gifts
• Embroidery

9. Lightweight hoodie

A lightweight hoodie offers a more breathable alternative that’s ideal for mild weather or layering throughout the year.

These hoodies are apt for outdoor events, promotional apparel, and active lifestyles because they’re comfortable without feeling bulky.

Lightweight hoodies are best for:

• Promotional apparel
• Spring and summer events
• Active lifestyles
• Everyday company apparel

10. French terry hoodie

French terry hoodies are made from a fabric that’s smooth on the outside and has soft loops on the inside instead of the fuzzy texture found in fleece. These hoodies are lighter than fleece but still comfortable enough for everyday wear.

A lot of brands use French terry hoodies for modern retail apparel because they offer a clean, premium appearance while remaining breathable.

French terry hoodies are best for:

• Lifestyle brands
• Retail merchandise
• Everyday branded apparel

11. Performance hoodie

Performance hoodies are designed with active wear in mind. They’re made from moisture-wicking polyester fabrics that help keep the wearer cool and comfortable during physical activity.

You’ll see these hoodies used by sports teams, fitness centers, outdoor companies, and event staff.

Performance hoodies are best for:

• Sports teams
• Fitness apparel
• Outdoor events
• Performance wear

In short, here’s how different hoodie materials compare: 

Different hoodie fits

12. Regular fit hoodie

A regular fit hoodie offers a classic, comfortable fit that works well for almost everyone.

Since it is neither too loose nor too fitted, it’s one of the safest choices among all types of hoodies when ordering custom apparel for large groups.

So whether you’re outfitting employees, volunteers, or event participants, regular fit hoodies provide a balanced look that’s suitable for a wide range of body types.

Regular fit hoodies are best for:

• Employee uniforms
• Schools
• Corporate events
• Promotional giveaways

13. Relaxed fit hoodie

Relaxed fit hoodies provide a little more room through the body and sleeves, making them extra comfortable for everyday wear.

They’re especially popular with younger audiences and businesses that want a casual, modern look for their branded apparel.

Relaxed fit hoodies are best for:

• Company merchandise
• Lifestyle brands
• Casual work environments

14. Athletic fit hoodie

As the name suggests, athletic fit hoodies have a more streamlined silhouette that sits closer to the body. They’re commonly worn by sports teams, fitness professionals, and active individuals who prefer a less bulky fit.

Businesses in the fitness industry choose athletic fit hoodies to reinforce a more performance-focused brand image.

Athletic fit hoodies are best for:

• Gyms
• Fitness businesses
• Sports teams
• Athletic apparel

In short, here’s how different hoodie fits compare: 

Different specialty hoodies

15. High-visibility hoodie

High-visibility hoodies are designed for workers who need to remain visible in low-light or hazardous environments.

They’re commonly worn in construction, roadwork, warehousing, and other industrial settings.

Many businesses customize these hoodies with different types of embroidery stitches and logos to maintain a professional appearance while improving worker visibility and safety.

High-visibility hoodies are best for:

• Construction companies
• Warehouses
• Utility crews
• Industrial businesses

16. Eco-friendly hoodie

As sustainability becomes more important, many brands are choosing eco-friendly hoodies made from organic cotton, recycled polyester, or other environmentally conscious materials.

These hoodies allow businesses to promote both their brand and their commitment to sustainability. They’re particularly popular with nonprofits, schools, outdoor brands, and companies that want their apparel to reflect their values.

Eco-friendly hoodies are best for:

• Sustainable brands
• Schools
• Nonprofits
• Corporate merchandise

In short, here’s how different specialty hoodies compare:

What types of hoodies are best for business branding?

By now, you’ve probably realized that there isn’t a single hoodie that’s perfect for every business.

So the best choice depends on your brand, your audience, and how the hoodies will be used.

For instance, if you’re looking for employee uniforms, a zip-up hoodie offers a clean, professional look. 

On the other hand, if you’re creating company merchandise to sell or give away, a heavyweight or fleece hoodie will provide a more premium feel.

Similarly, businesses that want bold, full-front graphics prefer pullover hoodies, while athletic organizations may benefit more from lightweight performance hoodies that are designed for active wear.

Here’s a quick guide you can use to choose among the different types of hoodies for branding: 

Final words

With so many different types of hoodies available today, finding the right one for your business doesn’t have to be complicated.

Just know what you’re exactly looking for such as premium company merchandise, comfortable employee uniforms, promotional apparel, or branded clothing for your team. Also, understand how different hoodie styles compare. 

And that’s it, you can now choose a hoodie that not only looks great but also fits your branding goals, your audience, and the way the apparel will be used.

Got more questions or looking to create custom branded hoodies?

You can get in touch with us!

At 5 Star Apparel, we help businesses, schools, sports teams, and organizations create high-quality custom hoodies that look great and are built to last. 

FAQs about different types of hoodies

What are the most popular types of hoodies?

Some of the most popular types of hoodies include pullover hoodies, zip-up hoodies, oversized hoodies, heavyweight hoodies, fleece hoodies, lightweight hoodies, and performance hoodies. Each offers different benefits depending on how you plan to use them.

Which hoodie is best for embroidery?

In most cases, heavyweight hoodies and fleece hoodies are among the best choices for embroidery. Their thicker fabrics provide a stable surface that helps embroidered logos look clean, durable, and professional.

What’s the difference between a pullover hoodie and a zip-up hoodie?

A pullover hoodie doesn’t have a front zipper and offers a larger uninterrupted area for graphics and logos. A zip-up hoodie features a full-length zipper, making it easier to layer and a popular choice for employee uniforms.

Are lightweight hoodies good for business branding?

Yes. 

Lightweight hoodies are a great option for promotional events, outdoor activities, and warmer climates. They provide a comfortable alternative to heavier hoodies while still offering plenty of space for custom branding.

Which hoodie is best for employee uniforms?

Zip-up hoodies are one of the most popular choices for employee uniforms. They’re easy to layer, comfortable to wear throughout the day, and create a clean, professional appearance when customized with an embroidered logo.

What’s the best hoodie material for custom apparel?

It depends on your goals. 

Fleece and heavyweight hoodies are excellent for warmth and premium branding, while performance fabrics are ideal for athletic apparel and lightweight hoodies are better suited for year-round promotional use.