Hoodies are hooded sweatshirts customised, branded, or designed for either fashion appeal or promotional use. Due to their comfort and style, they’ve become a go-to marketing tool for most brands. In fact, the custom apparel market is reported to grow at an annual rate of 11.1%. It is also noted that over 40% of Gen Z consumers buy branded streetwear, such as hoodies, to express personal identity.
How Did Hoodies Become a Fashion Staple?
Wearing a hoodie in the 1980s and 1990s likely meant you were either a gangsta rapper or a skater. To many, hoodies had a bad image, and wearing them was a sign of rebellion. However, as the years rolled by, and with the influence of movies, hip-hop, and skating culture, the hoodie evolved into a fashion piece that symbolises comfort, style, and self-expression.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Right Hoodie for Your Brand
Here are factors to consider when choosing the right hoodie merchandise for your brand:
- Material: The fabric you choose for your hoodie is crucial because it determines how soft and breathable it will be, how gentle it will be on the skin, and how easy it will be to care for. Most brands use cotton, but polyester and fleece are also excellent choices.
- Style: Pullovers and zip-ups are the top choices in this category, depending on preference and style. Pullovers are ideal for layering and give you an uninterrupted design space, while zip-ups are a bit more flexible and are favoured by most because they are easy to put on and take off.
- Fit: Oversized hoodies are trendy and popular with younger audiences, while regular-fit hoodies appear more polished and modern.
- Colour: If your brand colours are red and black, use those! Neutral colours like grey, black, and white also work well if you want a clean look.
- Choose Quality Print: Your customers won’t appreciate hoodies whose designs wash off after a few washes. So, invest in good printing or embroidery.
- Price Range: When choosing your brand’s merchandise, it is important to find the right balance between quality and affordability. Set a budget, research, and narrow your options to find the perfect hoodies that align with your brand’s goal.
What to Look For in a Premium Hoodie
- Fabric Composition: While aesthetics are important, premium hoodies are known for their comfort. Look for 250-400 GSM hoodies, which offer extra warmth, comfort, and a better shape.
- Stitching: You should also check for double-stitch seams, lined hoods, and ribbed cuffs. These features indicate better durability.
- Lining: The insides of your hoodies matter, too. A brushed interior makes them warmer and comfortable for cooler climates.
Latest Hoodie Merchandise Trends in 2025
Consumers are becoming more eco-conscious, so they’re naturally demanding sustainable merchandise. Retro and vintage graphics are also in high demand in 2025. And finally, more brands are offering customers a chance to personalise their hoodies with names and initials.
Conclusion
Brand merchandise that combines style, comfort, and huge branding potential will always be a top choice for businesses and fashion lovers. Whether you’re building a clothing line or launching a promo campaign, hoodie merchandise offers long-term value and trend-forward appeal.
Partner With UCT (Asia)!
At UCT (Asia), we want to help your brand rise above the noise with brand merchandise designed with care, tailored to your identity, and made for real impact. We turn ordinary merchandise into powerful marketing tools that create emotional connections and long-term loyalty. Contact us today to learn how we can help your brand stand out and stay relevant.
