4-H Cotton Boll and Consumer Jamboree 2015 Hoodies

Varieties Zip-up Easier to take on and off, stylish layered look Pullover Typically warmer, no zipper to break

Considerations Keeps you cool or warm as required Comfort Moisture-wicking Breathes Freedom of movement Weather-proof Style Cost and Value Uses and Needs

Fabrics 100% Cotton – soft, breathable, may shrink in dryer Cotton blends – easy to care for, most common addition is polyester Fleece – made from polyester, fuzzy appearance Wool – warm, absorbs water Nylon – fast-drying

Zip-up vs. Pullover Zip-up hoodies usually have a zipper that runs from the neckline to the hem. Some hoodies also offer half-zippers at the top of the hoodie to allow the wearer to dress easier. Can be worn partially zipped to expose the layer of clothing underneath, fully zipped, or unzipped. Selecting good quality zipper is an important consideration. Over time and many washes, the zipper component of zip-up hoodies may become damaged or stop working. This type of hoodie is easiest to put on and take off. Pullovers usually have a drawstring around the hood allowing the wearer to draw it up closer to the face. With no zippers, pullovers tend to be warmer. Another reason people choose pullover hoodies is for their muff pockets. Some hoodies also have deeper or tapered muff pockets, which keep keys or other items from falling out as easily.

Drawstrings on pullovers Low-quality drawstrings may fray over time. Alternatively, opt for one with no drawstring. Look for a a hoodie with plastic or metal stoppers

Special Features Moisture Wicking Water resistant fabrics include fleece and nylon. Durable Water Repellent

Sleeve Length and Elastic Bands Hoodie Sleeve Length - While the most popular style of hoodie includes long sleeves, there are also options with three-quarter sleeves, short sleeves, cap sleeves, or no sleeves. Choose sleeve lengths based on when you want to wear a hoodie. For example, a person who wants to wear a hoodie in the summer may choose a short sleeve or sleeveless garment. However, a person who wants to wear a hoodie during cooler weather would benefit from sleeves that cover the arms. Another option is to use layers. A person who wants to use a sleeveless or short-sleeve hoodie during the winter could add a long-sleeve shirt underneath. However, it would be difficult to find a way to keep cooler with a long-sleeve hoodie during the summer. Hoodie Elastic Bands - Many hoodies come with elastic or cinched bands around the wrist or hips. If the hoodie is meant to be waist length or a crop top, the elastic may wrap around the waistline instead of the hips. Not all hoodies have elastic. When choosing a hoodie with an elastic band, it is important to make sure it is loose enough to be comfortable. Some people prefer not to have elastic on their hoodies. For a tucked look, an elastic waistband is a good choice. However, people who prefer the look of an un-tucked t-shirt would prefer a hoodie without an elastic band. If it may be necessary to push up the sleeves of the hoodie, make sure any wrist bands will allow enough room to do this without restricting circulation.