Functional athletic wear for cool weather balances warmth, breathability, and moisture-wicking features so you never feel too warm or stifled. From pullover sweatshirts to fleeces and hoodies, today’s gear has the right elements to help you perform your best even in the icy cold.
When you’re shopping for the perfect men’s sweater or hoodie, start by choosing the material and design that fits what you have planned.
Popular Materials to Consider as You Shop
Some fabrics prioritize breathability and softness, while others offer comfort, warmth, faster drying times, and increased flexibility. Choose your next upper layer by browsing through the different sweater and hoodie materials below.
Cotton
Cotton is a comfortable, natural fabric known for its durability, breathability, and odor resistance. Most classic men’s hoodies are made of cotton or a cotton blend. Lightweight cotton is a convenient choice for layering or wearing on cool summer nights, while heavyweight cotton is a comfortable material for lounging at home.
Fleece
Many outdoor enthusiasts prefer fleece for camping trips, cool-weather hikes, and other outdoor adventures. Whether you wear a fleece sweater by itself or layer it with a T-shirt or jacket, you can rely on a fleece to help you feel warmer—even if it gets wet.
With its durability, breathability, softness, and moisture resistance, a fleece sweater or sweatshirt is a solid pick as an underlayer or a solo jacket on a chilly day.
Polyester, Nylon, and Blends
A favorite of fitness-clothing brands, polyester, nylon, and other fabric blends dry quickly, wick moisture away from the skin, and hold up well in the wash. They’re not quite as breathable as natural fabrics, but these synthetics offer plenty of stretch and flexibility for hiking, climbing, and working out at the gym.
Other Great Features to Explore
Once you choose the perfect men’s sweater or hoodie material, look for models made with helpful features like secure zippered pockets, elastic cuffs, built-in sun protection, and insulated inner linings.
Quality Counts for Men’s Sweaters and Men’s Hoodies
Select gear from respected brands when shopping for your next men’s sweater or hoodie. Brands like The North Face, O’Neill, Hurley, Under Armour, and Mountain Hardwear consistently produce great garments for adventures, from a Breckenridge vacation to a camping trip in Winter Harbor, Maine.
