We normally don’t think of Hanes a core player in the hoodie space. But of all the Amazon hoodies we tested, Hanes was the most surprising as far as fit is concerned. It felt like the hoodies we remember from the ‘90s with a roomy body and not-too-long hem that sits right about the waist. And where other hoodies might require a few months of wears and launders to achieve that broken-in, lazy day level of comfort, Hanes was ready to go straight out of the package. The main downside? The zipper was a bit too janky for our liking, but workable. Other than that, for less than $20, how much can you really complain about?
Best Vintage-Like Hoodie: Russell Athletic Dri-Power Fleece Hoodie
Material: 50% cotton, 50% polyester | Sizes: S-4XL | Style: Pullover with kangaroo pockets
Countless brands are churning out cheap sweats these days, but only Russell Athletic can claim to be the brand that literally invented the sweatshirt. That explains why vintage Russell apparel is a grail-level favorite among collectors. The company’s modern hoodies aren’t quite as beefy as the older stuff—to be fair, not many brands’ hoodies are—but somehow Russell manages to make a wildly affordable sweatshirt that still feels good.
GQ staffers have been raving about these classic hoodies for years—we love the old-school details like the V-insert at the neck, ribbed cuffs, and drawstring hood. It’s a perfect midweight long-sleeve for almost year-round wear, which means you’ll get your money’s worth. With more than a dozen colors to choose from, we highly recommend grabbing two or three. That said, we found the fit of Russell’s modern-day hoodies to be a tad sloppy all around, so we would recommend sizing down from your normal size.
Best ’90s-Classic Hoodie: GAP Logo Heritage Full-Zip Hoodie
Material: 60% cotton, 40% polyester | Sizes: XS-XXL | Style: Full-Zip
Gap’s seat at the American fashion table is well-deserved, from its solid lineup of denim products to ultra-soft pocket tees and more. It’s no wonder vintage-heads have been mining thrift stores for old Gap gear. Unlike its other mall neighbors/competitors, GAP can be sourced from Amazon with that sweet 2-day shipping and gratis returns. While we’re hesitant to call anything with a huge logo a timeless piece of clothing, Gap’s collegiate block letter logo hoodie is one of the very few exceptions.
It evokes the best of ‘90s style but it’s not just about the cute logo. The hoodie itself is a perfect midweight terry fabric that’s brushed on the inside for a plush feel. And as for the fit, it’s cut into an effortlessly relaxed silhouette without veering anywhere near sloppy. Pair it with your favorite wide-legged pants for a fit that’s straight out of 1995—in the best way possible.
How We Test and Review Products
Style is subjective, we know—that’s the fun of it. But we’re serious about helping our audience get dressed. Whether it’s the best white sneakers, the flyest affordable suits, or the need-to-know menswear drops of the week, GQ Recommends’ perspective is built on years of hands-on experience, an insider awareness of what’s in and what’s next, and a mission to find the best version of everything out there, at every price point.
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