hOOdies are our buDDies

As Part Of An Athleisure Look

Whenever comfort and coolness go hand-in-hand, you can be sure that we’ll be enthusiastic cheerleaders. Such is the case with athleisure and, thanks to those clever menswear designers, you won’t run the risk of looking like you were too lazy to change out of your gym gear.

Jaeger’s head of menswear, James Jee, says: “Gone are the days of the baggy, oversized logo-emblazed hoodies buddies. Fabrics are softer and heavier — a sign of a better yarn quality and a lot more of it. The fit is a little sharper and clean.”

To go full athleisure, team a black hoodie with black, fitted joggers and slip on a pair of minimal leather sneakers. Done.

Under A Leather Jacket

If you’re not sold by the high-low mix (it’s not for everyone), then it’s okay to stick to more familiar territory. A leather jacket and hoodie combination is one of those low octane pairings that work well, season after season.

Reiss head of menswear design, Alex Field, says: “Hoodies have dramatically improved in terms of quality and fit. Therefore, guys are looking to invest in well-fitting, well-made casual designs that can be worn in various situations. Whether that be to the gym or as part of a stylish off-duty look.”

Using a black leather jacket and black or indigo jeans as the base, experiment with hoodies buddies in different colours beneath your outerwear and combine with a pair of leather or suede Chelsea boots to smarten up this look.

Streetwear + Premium

By rights, streetwear hoodies should prioritise quality (heavyweight, pure cotton is a minimum) and performance over design. Despite this, among streetwear circles, the logo is everything.

Hoodies by skateboarding brand Palace are excellent (if you can get your hands on one) for those who want to appear laid-back, while higher up the chain you’ll find Tokyo-based BAPE and cult New York firm Supreme, which both offer oversized streetwear hoodies with distinctly un-streetwear price tags.

Of course, if you want the best, go to the OG. Champion’s Reverse Weave line, with its classic handwritten logo, has been to hoodies what Levi’s is to denim for almost 90 years. Subsequently, the American firm has inspired many other key names in the sector, including Carhartt, Stüssy and even Vetements.