Crewneck vs Hoodie for Men: Which One to Buy
Crewneck
Hoodie
Crewneck or hoodie? Pick by the day.
Buy the crewneck if you run warm, work in an office or layer under a jacket. Buy the hoodie if you want a hood, a front pocket and a weekend piece. In Phoenix, the crewneck gets worn more days of the year.
The scoreboard
These are our scores, based on how guys wear them. They are opinion, not a lab test.
When the crewneck wins
A crewneck is cleaner at the neck. It sits under a blazer or a bomber without a bunched hood, and it looks finished with a pair of joggers or chinos. If you wear a sweatshirt to a restaurant, this is the one. Our Alec Crew in black runs XS to XXXL, and the Alec Crew in brown runs XS to L. Black hides almost everything and goes with any pant you own.
It is also the better pick for warm days. Arizona mornings drop into the low 60s in October and the afternoon hits the high 80s. A crewneck is easy to pull off and tie, or stuff in a bag. For more on dressing that swing, read what to wear in Phoenix in October.
When the hoodie wins
A hoodie is for cold, wind and the lazy day. The hood covers your head on a 6 a.m. walk, the pocket holds your phone and keys, and the shape works as a gym to errands layer. The Hayden Hoodie in beige is unisex, in XS to XL. Beige also reads a step dressier than gray, which helps.
The trade-off is the neck. A hood bunches under a jacket and it looks more casual at work. If the fit is the worry, our four checks for how a hoodie should fit will save you a return.
Pick by situation
If you can only own one, own the black crewneck. It does the job of a hoodie on mild days and the job of a sweater at dinner. Add the hoodie when you have a second slot, and buy it for the days you want to feel like you are off the clock. Most guys who own both reach for the crewneck first, and that is the honest tell.
Shop both
One click: Alec Crew Black plus Alec Jogger Black, $174
Straight to checkout. Pick your size.
One click: Hayden Hoodie Beige plus Alec Jogger Black, $187
The weekend pair. Same joggers, hood instead of a neck.
Both pair well with the Alec Jogger in black, and our guide to wearing joggers beyond the gym shows how to keep the look sharp.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a crewneck or a hoodie better for work?
A crewneck. The clean neckline sits under a jacket and looks more put together than a hood, especially in black or another dark color.
Which is warmer, a crewneck or a hoodie?
A hoodie usually feels warmer because the hood covers your head and neck. A crewneck is better for mild days and for layering.
Can I wear a hoodie under a jacket?
You can, but the hood bunches at the collar. Tuck it in or pick a crewneck for a cleaner look.
Should I size up in a crewneck or a hoodie?
Buy your normal size. If you are between sizes and want to layer, take the larger one. Both fit best when the shoulder seam lands on the edge of your shoulder.
What color crewneck goes with the most outfits?
Black. It works with every pant color and hides sweat and wear better than lighter shades.
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