Introduction
A classic crew neck sweatshirt is like a comfy hug – it just feels good to wear one. As men, we tend to live in our sweatshirts when we’re not working or going out. They’re our uniforms for running errands, lounging around the house, and weekend activities.
So why shouldn’t we care about choosing a top quality crew neck sweatshirt that looks great and feels amazing? This essential wardrobe staple deserves more attention.
In this blog post, I’ll provide a detailed guide to finding your new favorite crew neck sweatshirt. You’ll learn:
- What factors to look for when shopping for crew neck sweatshirts
- In-depth reviews of the top 5 crew neck sweatshirts out there
- Key considerations for choosing the right sweatshirt for your needs
- Answers to frequently asked questions about crew neck sweatshirts
By the end, you’ll know exactly what to look for to find the best crew neck sweatshirt that ticks all your boxes for comfort, quality, and style. Time to retire those old faded crew necks and upgrade your collection!
Section 1: What to Look for in a Crew Neck Sweatshirt
Crew neck sweatshirts may seem basic – but there’s some nuance in finding the perfect one. Here are the key factors to consider when shopping:
Fit
How do you want the sweatshirt to fit? Options include:
- Slim – hugs the body; ideal for layering
- Regular – roomy but not baggy
- Oversized – loose and slouchy
Think about your usual style and intended use. Slimmer fits create cleaner lines, while looser fits are cozier.
Material
Common sweatshirt materials:
- Cotton – soft, breathable, and warm. Shrinks slightly.
- Cotton-polyester blend – retains shape after washing.
- Fleece – heavyweight with insulation.
- Jersey – lightweight and smooth.
100% cotton is ideal for softness. Blends hold their shape better over time. Fleece is warmer, jersey is lighter.
Weight
Sweatshirt weights vary:
- Lightweight – for mild weather or layering
- Midweight – balances comfort and warmth
- Heavyweight – very warm but can be bulky
Choose based on climate and intended use. Lightweight is most versatile.
Length
Standard sweatshirt lengths:
- Hip – hits at waist/hip
- Below hip – covers waist and butt
- Cropped – hits above hip
Go by personal preference. Hip length offers the most styling flexibility.
Construction
Look for:
- Reinforced seams – prevent torn stitches
- Ribbed cuffs – help hold shape
High quality stitching and seams will increase durability.
Collar
Options include:
- Ribbed – retains structure and shape
- Raw edge – can stretch out
A ribbed collar prevents stretching and sagging around the neckline.
There are a few other factors that come down to personal preference:
- Pockets – kangaroo, side, none
- Wash – pre-washed for softness
- Ethical manufacturing – fair labor and eco-friendly
Now let’s look at reviews of the top sweatshirt contenders…
Section 2: Reviews of the Top 5 Crew Neck Sweatshirts
After extensive research – reading reviews, analyzing materials and construction, comparing prices – I’ve selected the top 5 crew neck sweatshirts on the market:
1. Next Level Apparel Crew Neck
Next Level Apparel makes quality basics at reasonable prices. Their crew neck sweatshirt has a relaxed fit made from a 60% combed cotton/40% polyester blend.
Fit and sizing
- True to size
- Relaxed fit through body and arms
Material
- Soft cotton/poly blend
- Retains shape over repeated washings
Weight
- Versatile midweight – not too light or heavy
Length
- Hip length provides good coverage
Construction
- Smooth flatlock stitching
- Ribbed collar, cuffs, and hem
Washing
- Machine wash cold
- Won’t shrink much
Pockets
- None
Colors
- 20+ color options including neutrals and bold hues
Price
- $$ – often on sale for under $20
Pros
- Soft fabric
- Great quality for the price
- Versatile year-round weight
- Won’t shrink or lose shape
Cons
- Sizing runs slightly large
- No pockets
Best for:
- Layering, casual everyday wear, workouts
2. Flint and Tinder 10-Year Hoodie
Flint and Tinder make the famous 10-year hoodie. Their crewneck sweatshirt is equally durable, made in the USA from thick cotton fleece.
Fit and sizing
- Standard fit
- Size down for a trimmer look
Material
- 7 oz cotton fleece
- Soft inside, textured outside
Weight
- Mid-heavyweight – warm but not stifling
Length
- Hip length
Construction
- Thick flatlock stitching
- Ribbing at collar, cuffs, and hem
Washing
- Machine wash cold
- Tumble dry low
Pockets
- Kangaroo pocket
Colors
- Black, gray, navy and military green
Price
- $$$ but worth the investment
Pros
- Extremely durable – lasts for years
- Made in USA
- Generous kangaroo pocket
Cons
- Limited color options
- Heavy – not ideal for warm climates
Best for:
- Cold weather, casual wear, outdoors
3. Reigning Champ Midweight Terry Crewneck
Vancouver brand Reigning Champ makes athleticwear essentials like this midweight cotton/polyester blend crewneck.
Fit and sizing
- True to size
- Standard fit
Material
- 60% cotton/40% polyester
- Terry fabric – soft and absorbent
Weight
- Midweight – substantial but not bulky
Length
- Hip length
Construction
- Coverstitched seams
- Ribbed collar and cuffs
Washing
- Machine wash cold
- Tumble dry low
Pockets
- Kangaroo pocket
Colors
- Black, gray, navy, heather charcoal
Price
- $$$$ – premium price for quality
Pros
- Soft terry fabric
- High quality construction
- Ethical manufacturing
- Nice clean design
Cons
- Expensive
- Limited colors
Best for:
- Lounging, layering, gym/training
4. Lady White Co. Heavyweight Crewneck
This heavy loopwheel cotton crewneck from Lady White Co. is crafted for comfort and durability.
Fit and sizing
- Oversized – size down for regular fit
Material
- 12 oz loopwheel cotton
- Soft and thick
Weight
- Heavyweight – very warm
Length
- Hip length
Construction
- Tubular seamless construction
- Ribbed collar
Washing
- Machine wash cold
- Hang dry or tumble dry low
Pockets
- Kangaroo pocket
Colors
- 10 colors like ash, dark gray, and military green
Price
- $$$ – premium but worth it
Pros
- Extremely soft and cozy
- No side seams
- Made in USA
- Ethical and eco-friendly
Cons
- Runs very large
- Expensive for a basic sweatshirt
Best for:
- Ultimate comfort and warmth
5. Russell Athletic Cotton Fleece Crewneck
This comfortable cotton fleece crewneck from Russell Athletic provides quality at a reasonable price.
Fit and sizing
- True to size
- Classic regular fit
Material
- 60% cotton/40% polyester
- Brushed fleece – soft inside
Weight
- Midweight – provides warmth without bulk
Length
- Hip length
Construction
- Double needle stitching
- Ribbed collar, cuffs, hem
Washing
- Machine wash cold
- Tumble dry low
Pockets
- Split kangaroo pocket
Colors
- Dozens of colors – solids, camo, stripes
Price
- $ – great value for the quality
Pros
- Soft, brushed cotton fleece
- Classic fit and style
- Very affordable price
- Lots of color options
Cons
- Pills with extended wear
- Runs slightly big
Best for:
- Layering, weekends, casual wear
Hope these reviews help you zero in on the features that matter most to you. Now let’s talk about how to choose…
Section 3: Key Considerations for Choosing a Crew Neck Sweatshirt
With so many options, it can get overwhelming sorting through different brands, materials, fits and features. Use this criteria to dial in your preferences:
Intended use
Think about when and how you plan to wear it:
- Lounging and casual wear
- Layering in cool weather
- Working out or training
This dictates weight, breathability, and flexibility needed.
Climate
Consider the climate where you’ll wear it most. Lightweight sweatshirts work well for mild weather and layering, while heavyweights are ideal for cold climates. Midweight offers the most versatility.
Fit
Choose a fit based on your body type and style:
- Slim – creates a streamlined look
- Regular – roomy but not baggy
- Oversized – comfort with a slouchy look
Size down or up if you prefer a fit outside the standard.
Fabric
Fabric affects softness, breathability and warmth:
- Cotton – soft, breathable, warm
- Cotton/polyester blend – retains shape
- Fleece – very warm and insulating
- Jersey – lightweight and smooth
Think about hand-feel and versatility. 100% cotton is ideal for softness.
Length
Standard options:
- Hip – versatile and flexible
- Below hip – extra coverage and warmth
- Cropped – stylish, shows off layers
Go by height, pant pairings, and preferences.
Washing
Look for:
- Pre-washed for softness
- Cold water washing
- Tumble dry low or hang dry
This preserves size, shape and fabric texture over time.
Price
Crew necks range from $20 basic versions to premium $100+ sweatshirts. Set a budget per your value assessment. Consider cost per estimated wears.
Style
Beyond solid colors, options include:
- Stripes – classic pattern
- Graphics – logo, image designs
- Camo, heather, mélange – visual texture and depth
Collar and cuffs
Ribbed collars and cuffs help the sweatshirt hold its shape better with repeated wear and washing.
Pockets
Handy for carrying small items but not a dealbreaker. Kangaroo pockets are most common.
With this criteria in mind, you can confidently shop for a crew neck sweatshirt that perfectly suits your preferences. But if any questions remain, the FAQs have you covered…
Section 4: Frequently Asked Questions About Crew Neck Sweatshirts
Here are answers to some of the most common questions about buying, wearing, and caring for crew neck sweatshirts:
How should a crew neck sweatshirt fit?
Look for a close but comfortable fit through the shoulders, chest, and arms without excess fabric bunching. Length is personal preference, typically hitting at the hip or below. Size down for a trimmer look or up for a roomier fit.
What is the difference between a crew neck and a V-neck sweatshirt?
The main difference is the neckline. A crew neck has a rounded neckline while a V-neck dips down into a V-shape. Crew necks offer more coverage and are considered more casual and sporty. V-necks allow more room for layering and create a sleeker look.
How do you wash and care for a crew neck sweatshirt?
Wash in cold water and tumble dry low or hang dry. Avoid high heat when washing or drying to prevent shrinking. Wash colors separately and use color-safe detergent. Turn the sweatshirt inside out to prevent pilling. Use fabric softener or dryer balls for softness. Steam while damp to maintain shape.
What is the best crew neck sweatshirt material?
For softness and breathability, 100% cotton is best. For maintaining shape, a cotton/polyester blend is recommended. Fleece is very insulating while jersey has a lightweight, smooth feel. Choose based on your priorities for comfort, warmth, and versatility.
Should crew neck sweatshirts be tight or loose?
It comes down to personal preference. A tighter fit creates a streamlined look while a looser fit provides more comfort for lounging and layering. Slim to regular fit flatters most body types. Oversized can overwhelm smaller frames but provides a laidback feel.
How much do quality crew neck sweatshirts cost?
Basic cotton crew necks start around $20-30 while premium sweatshirts run $70-120. Factors like materials, manufacturing, and brand name impact price. Set a budget based on frequency of wear and cost per use. Quality materials and construction provide better durability.
Conclusion
If you’ve made it this far – congratulations, you’re now a crew neck sweatshirt expert!
To recap, this guide covered:
- Key criteria for choosing a crew neck: fit, fabric, weight, length and more
- Reviews of the top 5 crew necks available
- Factors to dial in your personal sweatshirt preferences
- FAQs on fit, materials, care and costs
Owning a quality crew neck sweatshirt you love makes all the difference. This versatile staple pairs well with jeans, joggers, shorts, and more. Follow these tips to find your perfect match – the one you’ll reach for again and again.
So take this advice to the stores or online and confidently choose your next beloved crew neck sweatshirt. Just beware of the urge to stock up on multiple colors and styles once you experience that perfect fit, feel and comfort!