Hoodies 2008 CBCJ Class Item By: Kasey Bozeman

History of Hoodies The hooded sweatshirt or “hoodie” is undoubtedly American in origin and style. The first hooded sweatshirt was created by Champion® in the 1930s for workers in frozen warehouses in New York. Today, hoodies can be seen on anyone from athletes to infants and the market for hoodies has become very diverse as a result.

Why Hoodies? A hoodie is basically a hooded sweatshirt commonly used for exercising, protection during cooler weather, and/or fashion. Hoodies come in both pull-over and zip- up styles. They are convenient and practical during the winter months.

Things to Consider The first thing to consider when buying a hoodie is its intended use. When will you wear the hoodie? What are the functional criteria that the hoodie must have to perform? Here are some examples of functional criteria: – Breathes – Keeps you cool or warm, as required – Allows for movement – Weather proof – Remains dry regardless of sweat or humidity – Comfortable – Cost and Value – Uses and Needs

Classes of Fibers Cotton – popular, can buy 100% cotton or a cotton blend (usually with polyester or nylon), comfortable, absorbent, cool, does not pill, soft, durable, and strong. One major disadvantage is that 100% cotton has a high shrinkage. Sometimes the fabric is pre- shrunk. Polyester – can be blended with cotton, durable, shrink resistance, wrinkle resistance, easy to care for, and does not take long amount of time to dry. Nylon - usually blended with cotton and helps to reinforce material.

Reminders About Fibers All man-made fibers are sensitive to a hot iron. This should be stated on the care label. Polyester typically retains the dyed color through multiple washings better than 100% cotton jeans. Read the care label on the inside waistband in the back of the jeans to determine the composition.

Shoulders Check the shoulder area seams for reinforcement. This reinforcement tape should be sewn into the seams. It will help keep the shoulders keep their shape and prevents excess strain on this area.

Seams and Hems The seams are generally narrow. Inspect seams to see if there are any loose threads and/or holes. Ensure that the side seams are perpendicular to the hemline at the bottom of the shirt. Inspect hems to see if there are any loose threads and/or holes.

Hood Look at the seam that connects the hood to the rest of the sweatshirt. Check the hood. Is it symmetrical? Does it tie with a drawstring? If so, inspect the string.

Zipper Some hoodies will have a zipper. Zippers should be sturdy and reinforced. Lots of stress will be placed on this area of the garment, therefore, the zipper must be strong. Metal zippers are more durable than nylon zippers. The zipper should be at least ¼ inch wide.

Sleeves Inspect this hem as well for loose threads and holes. If ribbing is used, ensure that the ribbing stretches, but then it retains its shape.

Moisture Management Some hoodies are designed to keep the wearer dry during activity or humid conditions—such hoodies are described as moisture-wicking. It is common for manufacturers to have their own unique name associated with their moisture- wicking technology. Some of the common names are listed below. Some are associated with a particular brand of clothing while others are used across many brands industry wide. – ClimaCool: (Adidas) allows air flow around the garment to regulate body temperature – ClimaProof: (Adidas) keeps the wearer warm and dry during all weather conditions – CoolMax: (DuPont) fibers are engineered to push perspiration to the surface of the garment; used in many brand-name moisture management systems – Dri-Fit: (Nike) water-wicking system to keep the wearer dry – Dri-Power: (Russell) draws moisture away from the body – PlayDry: (Reebok) moisture-wicking – PolarTec: this is a leading manufacturer of synthetic and technology fabrics specializing in moisture- wicking, weather resistant, and insulation technologies. Dri-Fit Technology

Care Most hoodies require mash wash warm or cold and tumble dry low. It is very rare that a hoodie requires dry- cleaning. Check the manufacture’s label. Hoodies with iron-on images or printed designs often require special care. Again, check the label.

Availability Hoodies are available usually in the fall and winter. Hoodies come in a variety of colors, designs, and have many different images and/or slogans printed on them.

Cost Most hoodies are usually inexpensive. Higher-quality typically cost more money. Check the quality of the fabric, construction, and require care to ensure you are buying a durable hoodie worth the purchase price.

General Reminders Read the scenario. Decide what is or is not important. Check the care label – composition and care instructions. Check the sale tag – style, design, special features, and price. Inspect the garment – seams, hems, neckline, shoulders, sleeves, and hood.