What Is a Hooded Sweatshirt?
When you hear the term “hooded sweatshirt,” you probably think of cozy weekend wear, gym outfits, or trendy streetwear looks. From college campuses to high-fashion runways, the hoodie has evolved into more than just comfortable clothing; it’s a symbol of self-expression, culture, and modern fashion.
At Plum Industry, a leading U.S. private label clothing manufacturer, we understand what makes a hoodie truly stand out. In this guide on what is a hooded sweatshirt, we’ll explore its origin, cost, customization options, and how brands can leverage this timeless piece to build identity, comfort, and style.
What Is a Hooded Sweatshirt?
A pullover or zip-up shirt composed of soft, warm fabrics (usually blends of polyester, cotton, and blends) and adorned with a hood positioned at the neckline. It is usually made up of:
- Drawstrings to alter the hood.
- Pockets for a Kangaroo or pockets on the sides.
- Ribbed hems and cuffs to ensure a perfect shape.
In simple terms, a hooded sweatshirt is both functional and fashionable, protecting you from the cold while giving you a casual, stylish look. What Is a Hooded Sweatshirt?
History of a hooded sweatshirt
The hooded sweatshirt was not created as a fashionable piece of clothing but rather as clothing for work in the 1930s. Clothing from the 1930s.
- 1930s: Champion designed the first hoodie for employees working in cold warehouses.
- 1970s-80s The HTML0 format was adopted by hip-hop culture, athletes, and skateboarders.
- 1990s-2000s It became the norm in pop culture and streetwear, used by celebrities and young movements.
- Today, from high-end manufacturers to small-scale labels, Hoodies rule the market worldwide.
The evolution of hoodies shows more than just clothing from the 1930s; it’s an identity.
Why Are They So Popular in 2025
Hoodies are now a universal fashion item because they:
- Provide art unlike any other clothing.
- You can seamlessly blend into the latest trends in streetwear and athleisure.
- It is possible to dress either way.
- Give the empty canvas to brands to communicate their brand’s identity.
- They are gender neutral and have a wide-ranging appeal.
Types of Hooded Sweatshirts
When you are asking if a sweatshirt with a hood is a good idea, it is a good idea to look into the various variations:
Pullover Hoodie
There is no zipper, just a pullover that has pockets for kangaroos. The classic and casual.
Zip-Up Hoodie
There is a zipper on the front for flexibility. Popular in athleisure.
Lightweight Hoodie
Made from jersey or blends of cotton, perfect for layering.
Heavyweight Hoodie
A thicker fleece or terry material to provide superior warmth.
Fashion Hoodie
Cut-and-sew designs, oversized fittings, or luxurious fabric.
What Materials Are Used in Hooded Sweatshirts?
Fabric selection is crucial:
- The cotton fleece is Soft and breathable, it’s also affordable.
- Organic cotton is Eco-friendly and sustainable.
- Blends of polyester are tough and wrinkle-resistant.
- French Terry high-end texture is used in luxury hoodies.
- Sustainable fabrics: Bamboo and recycled fibers.
In the Plum Industry, we provide services for sourcing fabrics and assist brands in choosing green and affordable fabrics.

Double Hooded Sweatshirt – Trendy Comfort with a Unique Twist
A double hooded sweatshirt blends style and comfort, featuring two overlapping hoods that create a layered, eye-catching look. It’s a popular choice for custom apparel brands and fashion enthusiasts who want something unique yet practical. Perfect for casual wear, gym sessions, or streetwear collections.
Key Highlights:
- Two overlapping hoods for a stylish, layered effect
- Extra warmth and standout design
- Ideal for streetwear, gym, or everyday fashion
- Great for branding, embroidery, and custom logos
- Combines comfort, creativity, and modern appeal
How Much Does It Cost?
One of the biggest concerns for fashion entrepreneurs is understanding production costs. Below is an overview of average hoodie manufacturing prices in 2025 and how they translate into retail value.
| Type of Hoodie | Description | Estimated Cost (Per Unit) | Typical Retail Price (3x–4x Markup) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Hoodie | Cotton/poly blend, simple design | $8 – $15 | $24 – $60 |
| Mid-range Hoodie | Organic fabric, cotton, customized dye | $15 – $30 | $45 – $120 |
| Premium Hoodie | Luxury fabrics, cut-and-sew construction | $35 – $70+ | $105 – $280+ |
Pro Tip: To maximize profit without sacrificing quality, focus on efficient production planning, reliable manufacturers, and smart fabric sourcing.
Customization Options for Your Hoodie Line
Hoodies that are custom-made shine:
Screen Printing
Cheap, perfect for logos with bold colors.
Embroidery
Luxurious look, durable price, slightly higher.
Heat Transfer Printing
Flexible for a variety of colors and intricate designs.
Tie-Dye or Custom Dyeing
Unique styles for streetwear brands.
Labels & Packaging
Custom-made woven labels, custom-designed tags, and eco-friendly packaging enhance your hoodie’s line.
Why They Are Perfect for Fashion Startups
- Universal appeal: Hoodies sell across demographics.
- Cost of production: Low costs, Strong retail value.
- Potential for customization: Every hoodie is able to convey your brand’s story.
- Production that can be scaled. Start small and easily scale.
We are at Plum Industry; we assist brands in designing hoodies that make a statement in a market that is crowded.
Partner with Plum Industry for Quality Hoodies
We are the Plum Industry. We don’t only make hoodies. We aid brands in their growth.
Here’s what we can offer:
- Low MOQs: Great for those who are just starting and trying to test the market.
- Design and development support from sketch to technical packs.
- Fabric and trim sourcing is eco-friendly and cost-effective.
- Design and build custom solutions for branding, including labels, embroidery, and packaging.
- Services for full production from sampling to the final delivery.
Check out our custom-designed manufacturing of apparel and discover what we can do to bring your designs for hoodies to life.
How it fits into 2025 Fashion Trends
The hoodie of 2025 is not “just casual wear.” They are:
- Included in the high-end Streetwear collection.
- Central to fashion is gender neutrality.
- Made from environmentally friendly materials.
- Sold worldwide due to an increase in e-commerce.
Your business has the potential to profit from this trend.
Conclusion | What Is a Hooded Sweatshirt?
It’s more than simply clothing. It’s a mix of style, comfort, and a distinct cultural identity. The hoodies of 2025 are at the forefront of fashion worldwide, providing unlimited opportunities for entrepreneurs and established brands alike.
At Plum Industry, we’re dedicated to helping brands develop hooded sweatshirts that are affordable, high-quality, and have a distinctive identity. From fabric selection until final delivery, our goal is to make the entire process easy, transparent, and profitable. Are you ready to begin your collection of hoodies? Contact Plum Industry today and let us bring your sweatshirt dream.

FAQs
What’s a Hooded sweatshirt?
A hooded sweatshirt can be described as a unisex pullover or zip-up top that is fitted with a hood. It is typically made of fleece, cotton, or blends, designed to provide warmth and fashion.
Does a hoodie look the same as a sweatshirt with a hood?
Yes, “hoodie” is just the name used to describe a sweatshirt with a hood.
How much will it cost to produce a sweatshirt with a hood?
The production costs vary between $8 and $70+ per unit, depending on the fabric, design complexity, and quantity of orders.
Can I personalize my sweatshirts’ hoods?
Absolutely. Through the private label service, you are able to make your own embroidery, fabric labels, packaging, and packaging.
Are sweatshirts with hoods suitable for new businesses?
Thanks to their huge popularity and high profit margins, Hoodies are among the most effective products for young fashion-oriented businesses.