What Material to Choose for a Sweatshirt ? Complete Guide

Introduction

Importance of material for a sweatshirt

The sweatshirt, or sweatshirt, is a piece of clothing originating in the United States. Originally designed for athletes, it quickly won over the general public. It offers optimal comfort, favored by its main material, cotton.

The choice of material for a sweatshirt is an essential criterion. Indeed, the material determines not only the comfort and feel of the garment, but also its durability and ease of maintenance.

Factors to consider when choosing a sweatshirt

When it comes to choosing a sweatshirt, several factors come into play. The first is of course the material, but you also have to take into account the style, the price, the cut, the color and even the weight of the garment.

Also read: How to choose the quality of a sweatshirt ?

Different materials for sweatshirts

Cotton

cotton is the most commonly used material for sweatshirts. It is appreciated for its softness and comfort, but also for its ability to absorb humidity. It is an ideal choice for everyday clothing.

Cotton is also a durable material that holds up well to washing. However, it can become deformed over time, especially if the sweatshirt is often worn and washed.

French Terry

The French Terry is a cotton fabric with a soft loop and threads on one side and a smooth, soft surface on the other. It's absorbent and lightweight, making it ideal for activewear or casual warm-weather wear. Please note that this fabric may relax over time.

Polyester

polyester is a synthetic material often used for sports clothing. It is light, durable and dries quickly, making it ideal for use in the gym or for fitness.

However, polyester is not as breathable as cotton, which may make the sweatshirt less comfortable to wear in hot weather.

Also read: How to limit perspiration with polyester ?

Wool

Another notable option is wool. A material with natural fibers, wool is particularly appreciated for its exceptional insulating qualities. A wool sweatshirt will keep you warm even on the coldest days.

In addition to its ability to retain heat, wool has the particularity of being a breathable fiber. It naturally regulates body temperature, keeping you warm without making you sweat.It is an ideal option for active people looking for comfortable clothing to face winter temperatures.

Finally, wool is a renewable and biodegradable resource. Choosing a wool sweatshirt can be an eco-friendly choice, helping to reduce your environmental footprint.

Also read: how to wash a wool sweater safely ?

Fleece

Next we have fleece, a synthetic material known for its warmth and lightness. Fleece sweatshirts are perfect for outdoor activities in winter, or just for snuggling up at home on chilly evenings. On the other hand, fleece may be less breathable than other fabrics.

Nylon

nylon is another synthetic material commonly used in sportswear. It is durable, dries quickly and resists wear and tear well. However, like polyester, nylon is not very breathable.

Fleece

fleece is a soft and warm fabric, often used for sweatshirts. It is usually made of cotton or a blend of cotton and polyester. It's comfortable and soft against the skin, but it can be a little heavy.

Alpfleece

Finally, Alpfleece is a type of fleece with a smooth side and a brushed side for added warmth. It is durable, soft and very warm, but may be too thick for some uses.

Interlock

Interlock is a type of fabric often used for sweatshirts because of its density and softness. Its double-sided structure gives it excellent resistance and a neat finish.

However, interlock can be a little heavier than other fabrics, such as jersey. It is therefore more suitable for sweatshirts intended to be worn in cooler weather.

How to choose the right material

Advantages and disadvantages of each material

Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages. For example, cotton is soft and comfortable, but can lose its shape over time. Polyester is durable and dries quickly, but is not very breathable. The choice between cotton or polyester therefore depends on your specific needs.

Advice for an optimal choice

To make the best choice, it is important to take into account the use you will make of the sweatshirt. If you plan to do a lot of exercise, a breathable, durable material like polyester or nylon might be the best choice. For everyday use, cotton or fleece might be more comfortable.

Importance of cut and color

The cut and color of the sweatshirt are also important factors to consider. A good fit can improve the comfort and appearance of the sweatshirt, while the color can reflect your personal style and help you feel good in your garment.

Also read: what color to choose for your sweatshirt ?

Choice of material according to activity

The material of your sweatshirt must also be adapted to the activity for which you are wearing it. Here are some recommendations:

• Intensive sport (running, fitness, etc.): opt for technical and breathable materials such as polyester or nylon. These materials wick away perspiration effectively and dry quickly.
• Outdoor activities in winter (hiking, skiing, etc.): an insulating material such as wool or fleece will be more suitable. These materials will keep you warm even in cold weather.
• Soft gym (yoga, pilates, etc.): a soft, stretchy fabric like cotton or French Terry will be more comfortable. These materials allow great freedom of movement.
• Daily use : for daily use, cotton, fleece or French Terry may be more comfortable. These materials are soft and pleasant to wear.
• Cool evenings or outdoor outings: a fleece or wool sweatshirt can keep you warm. These materials are also comfortable for snuggling up at home.

It is important to note that these recommendations are general and the choice of material may depend on many other factors, such as your personal preferences and the climate in your area.

Also read: when to wear your sweatshirt ?

Additional purchasing criteria

Weight

The grammage is an essential indicator to take into account. It refers to the density and quality of a fabric. A higher weight fabric will be thicker, more durable, but also potentially heavier. This is a criterion to consider depending on the use you plan to make of your sweatshirt.

In addition, the weight can influence the warmth of the sweatshirt. A heavier weight will be more suitable for cold weather, while a lighter weight will be more pleasant to wear during milder seasons.

Mesh thickness

The thickness of the mesh is another important criterion to consider when choosing your sweatshirt. It can greatly affect the comfort and warmth of the garment.

A sweatshirt with a thick knit will be warmer and more insulating, making it ideal for the winter months or cooler evenings. However, thick knit can also be heavier and less breathable.

Conversely, a sweatshirt with a fine knit will be lighter and more breathable, perfect for warmer days or for physical activity. However, it may not provide enough heat when it gets colder.

It is therefore important to choose the thickness of the mesh according to the use you plan to make of your sweatshirt. If you are looking for a versatile garment, a medium knit could be a good compromise.

Elasticity

elasticity is another determining criterion. An elastic fabric offers greater comfort and freedom of movement. This is especially important if you plan to do sports or activities that require a wide range of motion in your sweatshirt.

On the other hand, elasticity can also affect the durability of your sweatshirt. A fabric with a good percentage of elasticity will better resist deformation due to repeated washing and regular use.

Composition

The composition of the fabric is also a crucial criterion. A pure cotton composition will be soft and comfortable, but may lose its shape over time. A blend of cotton and polyester, for example, can provide better strength and durability.

In addition, the composition can influence the breathability and sweat absorption capacity of the fabric.This is a point to take into account if you are looking for a sweatshirt for sports.

Col

Finally, the style of the collar may be a matter of personal preference. Here are some types of collars commonly used in sweatshirts:

• Round collar: A classic, comfortable and versatile choice.
• V-neck: Gives a more modern look, ideal for layering with a necklace or t-shirt.
• High collar: Offers additional protection against the cold, gives a sporty look.
• Turtleneck: Perfect for very cold days, it gives a chic and sophisticated look.
• Sweetheart collar: Adds a feminine touch, ideal for a casual but elegant look.
• Shawl collar: Brings a touch of originality and additional comfort.
• Funnel collar: Provides extra protection against the wind, gives an elegant look.
• Hood: Provides additional protection against the elements, gives a casual and sporty look.

Each of these collars has its own advantages and disadvantages, so your choice will depend on your personal preferences and the use you plan to make of your sweatshirt.

Coastal

ribbon is a type of finish often used on the cuffs and waist of sweatshirts. It provides a clean finish and helps maintain the shape of the garment.

In addition, the ribbing adds an aesthetic touch to the sweatshirt and can contribute to its comfort, thanks to its elasticity.

Also read: how to tell if your sweatshirt is too small ?

Conclusion

In conclusion, the choice of material for a sweatshirt depends on many factors, including comfort, style, intended use, and even climate. By understanding the pros and cons of each material, you can make an informed choice and find the perfect sweatshirt for you.

FAQ

What fabric to make a sweater ?

For a sweater, cotton, wool or cashmere are popular choices. These materials are warm, soft and comfortable to wear.

What is French terry fabric ?

French terry is a cotton fabric with a soft loop and threads on one side and a smooth, soft surface on the other. It is lightweight and absorbent, making it ideal for activewear or casual warm weather wear.

How to choose the right sweatshirt ?

To choose the right sweatshirt, you must take several factors into account, including the material, cut, color, style and intended use. It is also important to choose an appropriate size for maximum comfort and style.

How to choose a women's sweatshirt ?

To choose a women's sweatshirt, you must take into account the material, cut, color and style. Women's sweatshirts are often more fitted and may have details such as prints, embroidery or embellishments.

What material for a warm sweater ?

For a warm sweater, wool, cashmere or polyester are good choices. These materials provide good thermal insulation and keep heat close to the body. Find out in this guide what is the best material for a sweater.

What fabric for a child's sweatshirt ?

Cotton is ideal for a children's sweatshirt thanks to its natural softness and its ability to absorb moisture. It provides moderate heat suitable even in mid-season.

How to choose the right quality of a sweatshirt ?

Prefer solid materials like cotton, observe the grammage (250-350 g/m2 is a good compromise) and choose a tight knit to avoid bad surprises after a few normal wash cycles.

What weight for a quality sweatshirt ?

Between 250 and 350 g/m2 is a good grammage for a quality sweatshirt, offering a good compromise warmth/comfort. This allows for a warm interior without being stuffy.

What material to choose for a sweater ?

Wool, cashmere and cotton are excellent materials for making a warm and comfortable sweater. Wool offers a special structure thanks to its synthetic fibers.

Which fabric breathes best ?

The most breathable fabrics are cotton, linen and silk, ideal for wicking away perspiration thanks to their absorption capacity and their special structure.

What fabric to sew a sweater ?

To sew a sweater, jersey, fleece, wool or cotton are popular choices. These materials are warm, soft and relatively easy to sew.

Updated February 23  2024