Sweatshirt or hoodie for the day at home

Short answer: A hoodie adds an extra layer around the neck and is mostly worn outdoors, while a sweatshirt is more practical indoors, because the hood does not get in the way against the back of a chair. Many people end up with one of each.

The hood indoors

A hood bunches up between your back and the chair when you sit, and it pulls at your neck when you lean back. That is the most common reason to choose a sweatshirt for a day at home, especially if you work at a desk or sit a lot on the sofa.

The hood outdoors

Outside, the hood is an extra layer against wind, cold and a light shower. It covers the back of the neck, which easily gets cold, and can be pulled up on the way to the car or bus. See bamboo hoodies for men for styles with a roomy hood.

The neckline

A sweatshirt has a ribbed neckline that keeps out draughts without adding bulk. It lies flat, so you can wear a shirt or T-shirt underneath, and it fits under a jacket without taking up space. See bamboo sweatshirts for men for simple styles.

For women

The same differences apply to women. A hoodie is good for walks and cool evenings on the terrace, while a sweatshirt is easier to wear all day. See both in bamboo hoodies for women and bamboo sweatshirts for women.

Weight

Bamboo viscose makes both lighter than classic cotton sweat fabric, so they do not feel clammy indoors, even with the heating on. The fabric drapes softly and feels light on the body, which makes it easy to wear a top all day. See sweatwear for the full range.

Pockets

Hoodies often have a kangaroo pocket at the front, where you can warm your hands or keep your phone. Sweatshirts usually have no pockets, which gives a cleaner look. Think about whether you use the pocket, as heavy items in a soft pocket pull the top out of shape over time.

Layering

A sweatshirt can be worn under a jacket or coat, because it lies flat at the neck. A hoodie under a jacket is less practical, but the hood can hang over the collar and add shelter. Choose based on how you usually dress when you head out.

Drying time

The hood is the last part to dry, because the fabric is doubled. Hang the top with the hood pulled out, ideally on a hanger, so air can reach it. A sweatshirt dries faster and more evenly, which is handy if you only have one top in use.

Washing

Wash inside out at 40 degrees and avoid the tumble dryer, which is hard on ribbing and elastic. Skip fabric softener, as it leaves a film on the fibres and makes the fabric less breathable. The other care rules are in the washing guide.

One of each

Many people end up with a sweatshirt for days at home and a hoodie for going out. Choose colours that go with your trousers, so you can switch without thinking. That way you always have the right top, whether you stay in or head out.

Frequently asked questions

What is most practical indoors?

The sweatshirt. The hood gets in the way when you sit in a chair, while the ribbed neckline of a sweatshirt lies flat and keeps out draughts.

Is a hoodie warmer?

Slightly, because the hood adds a layer around the neck. The difference is mostly felt outdoors, where the hood can also be pulled up against wind and cold.