Style options
Pullover hoodies offer a clean, minimal silhouette with the practicality of drawstring hoods and kangaroo pockets. Zip-up hoodies add layering convenience, sitting neatly over a shirt or under a heavier outer layer. Crewneck sweatshirts occupy territory closer to knitwear, reading as slightly more polished and working well in smart-casual contexts alongside tailored pieces. Funnel necks and quarter-zips bridge the gap between sweatshirt and outerwear, adding structure without formality. For those considering fit, both oversized and more tailored cuts are represented across our curated sweatshirts and hoodies selection.
Fabric guide
French terry is smooth on the outside and looped on the inside, making it lighter and less bulky than fleece, and well suited to transitional weather and layering under outerwear. Midweight fleece provides warmth without overheating, a reliable choice across much of the year. Heavyweight fleece and loopback cotton constructions offer maximum warmth and structure, working as standalone pieces in colder conditions. Cotton blends retain their softness through repeated washing, while sherpa-lined styles add meaningful insulation for the coldest days. Fabric weight is worth considering: lighter options sit comfortably under a coat, while heavier pieces carry enough presence to stand alone.
Fit and sizing
A classic fit works across most body types and layers cleanly under outerwear. A relaxed or oversized fit reads as more casual and is well suited to standalone wear. A slim or tailored silhouette produces a cleaner line and pairs naturally with more considered pieces below. The intended use matters: an oversized hooded sweatshirt worn over a t-shirt asks something different of the fit than a slim crewneck layered under a coat. If you are uncertain about sizing, our 30-day returns policy on full-price items makes it straightforward to try a size and exchange if needed. In-store pickup in Copenhagen and Aarhus also allows you to try pieces before committing. Explore our range of premium hoodies for men and versatile crewneck sweatshirt styles to find the right fit for you.
Styling and layering
The most straightforward approach is casual: a hoodie over a t-shirt with denim or relaxed trousers. For colder days, a crewneck sweatshirt worn under a coat or technical jacket adds warmth through layering without bulk. In a smart-casual direction, a minimal crewneck in a neutral tone pairs naturally with tailored trousers and clean leather footwear. A zip-up hoodie over a collared shirt works for relaxed evenings or less formal work settings. The right piece moves from home to street without adjustment. Our men's premium sportswear collection covers the more active end of this spectrum, and we also carry women's sweatshirts and hoodies for those shopping across categories.
Construction quality
A well-constructed sweatshirt holds its shape, softness, and structure across years of wear rather than a single season. Reinforced details at stress points such as underarms and pockets extend the life of the garment considerably. Ribbed trims that retain their elasticity, pre-shrunk fabrics that resist distortion after washing, and heavier fabric weights that resist pilling are all markers of considered construction. The brands we carry are selected in part for this consistency, with pieces intended to become genuine wardrobe staples rather than items replaced each year. Durability at this level makes the long-term cost of a quality sweatshirt significantly lower than it first appears.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a hoodie and a sweatshirt?
The key difference is the hood. A hoodie includes an attached hood, usually with a drawstring for adjustment, and often features a kangaroo pocket at the front. A sweatshirt has no hood — it typically comes in a crewneck or funnel neck silhouette and tends to have a cleaner, more minimal profile. Both are made from similar fabrics (fleece, French terry, cotton blends) and serve similar layering purposes, but sweatshirts generally read as slightly more polished, while hoodies lean more casual and functional.
Should I size up or down in a sweatshirt or hoodie?
It depends on the fit you are after. If you want a relaxed, oversized look, sizing up one step from your usual size works well. For a classic or regular fit that layers cleanly under a coat, your standard size is usually right. For a slim or tailored silhouette, some prefer to size down slightly. When in doubt, Stoy's 30-day returns policy on full-price items makes it easy to try a size and exchange if needed. In-store pickup in Copenhagen and Aarhus also allows you to try before committing.
What fabric is warmest for a men's sweatshirt or hoodie?
Heavyweight fleece and loopback cotton constructions offer the most warmth and are best suited as standalone outer layers in cold weather. Midweight fleece is a versatile middle ground, warm enough for cool days but not so heavy that it becomes uncomfortable indoors. French terry is the lightest of the common sweatshirt fabrics, making it ideal for mild temperatures or as a base layer under a jacket. Sherpa-lined styles add significant insulation and are among the warmest options available.
Can I wear a hoodie or sweatshirt in a smart-casual setting?
Yes, with the right styling. A minimal crewneck sweatshirt in a neutral tone pairs well with tailored trousers and clean leather footwear for a smart-casual look. A zip-up hoodie worn over a collared shirt also works for relaxed evenings or creative work environments. The key is choosing a style with a clean silhouette, quality fabric, and no heavy graphics. Stoy's selection includes pieces from brands that sit comfortably at this intersection of comfort and considered dressing.
How do I care for my sweatshirt or hoodie to keep it in good condition?
Most sweatshirts and hoodies can be machine washed on a gentle or cool cycle. Turning the garment inside out before washing helps protect any surface texture or print. Avoid high-heat drying, which can cause shrinkage and break down elastic fibres in ribbed cuffs and hems. Laying the piece flat to dry or tumble drying on low preserves the shape best. Always check the care label on the specific garment, as fabric blends and construction details can vary between styles.
What makes a high-quality sweatshirt worth the investment?
A well-made sweatshirt is built to hold its shape, softness, and structure over years of wear rather than seasons. Markers of quality include reinforced seams at stress points, ribbed cuffs and hems that retain their elasticity, pre-shrunk fabrics that do not distort after washing, and a fabric weight that resists pilling. Brands with a consistent track record of design and construction produce pieces that become genuine wardrobe staples, making the cost-per-wear significantly lower than cheaper alternatives over time.
