This blog post delves into the world of a timeless classic: the black hoodie. It begins by presenting the history of the black hoodie, and how culture shaped its development into dominating popularity in the fashion scene. It then discusses the best black hoodies for men, categorising them to help you find your style.
The History of Black Hoodies
The origins of the black hoodie can be traced back to the early 20th century, where it first emerged as a practical garment for athletes and labourers. In the 1930s, the American sportswear brand Champion was one of the pioneers in introducing hooded sweatshirts for athletes to keep warm during training sessions in cold weather. The hood served as a protective layer against the elements, making it a functional addition to traditional sweatshirts.
In the following decades, the black hoodie became popular not only among athletes but also among labourers and workers in various industries. Its practicality and ease of wear made it a favoured choice for those seeking comfort during physically demanding tasks.
However, it was during the 1970s and 1980s when the black hoodie began to transcend its utilitarian roots and entered the realm of fashion and counterculture. The rise of hip-hop culture and streetwear had a significant impact on elevating the hoodie's status to a symbol of urban style and rebellion. Artists and musicians started donning black hoodies, making them synonymous with the hip-hop scene and youth culture.
As the black hoodie gained momentum in street fashion, it also became associated with various subcultures, such as skaters, graffiti artists, and punks.
Fast forward to the 21st century, and the black hoodie has firmly established itself as a timeless and versatile wardrobe essential. Major fashion houses and streetwear brands have incorporated hoodies into their collections, giving rise to an array of styles and designs that cater to diverse tastes.
Today, the black hoodie continues to evolve, with innovative materials and cutting-edge designs pushing the boundaries of fashion and function. Whether it's a classic pullover hoodie, a zip-up style, or an oversized streetwear piece, the black hoodie remains a favourite among men of all ages, offering a perfect blend of comfort, style, and attitude.
Best Black Hoodies for Men
We'll now explore some of the best black hoodies for men. Whilst you're here, feel free to explore our full range of black hoodies.
Best Overall Black Hoodie
If you're looking for the best all round black hoodie, then you may want to check out the Represent Owners' Club Hoodie in Black. Crafted from a heavy weight 480gsm luxury jersey cotton, this hoodie is super soft, pre-shrunk and piece dyed. It features a ribbed hem and cuffs, with the classic Owners' Club Print to the chest and back.
Best Minimalist Black Hoodie
If you're looking for a minimalist hoodie with perfected fabric and fit, then the Jet Black Initial Hoodie is for you. It features a rough outer and soft loopback inner, crafted from 400gsm jersey cotton; slightly lighter from our mainline hoodies to accommodate year-round wearing. It has an overall boxy fit, with wide arms. This black hoodie is finished with single stitching and an embroidered Initial logo to the hood.
Best Black Zip Hoodie
A good option for if the weather is warmer or if you want to show off your layered fit is a zip hoodie. If you're looking for the best black zip hoodie then you should check out the Initial Zip Hoodie in Jet Black. Crafted with the same 400gsm jersey cotton as the Initial Hoodie, this zip hoodie accommodates ultimate year round comfort with its boxy fit and wide arms. The hoodie is finished with our embroidered Initial logo to the hood and signature jersey bar to the pocket.
Best Black Graphic Hoodie
If you want to take more of a maximalist approach to your black hoodie styling, then you should check out our range of graphic hoodies. At the forefront of this range is the Giants Hoodie in Jet Black. Crafted from 480gsm heavyweight jersey, this black hoodie has an oversized fit, with ribbed hem and cuffs. It has a cobrax popper to the hood, Represent metal bar to the pocket, and is finished with our Giants graphic to the back and chest.
Best Black Hoodie for Training
Perhaps you're looking for a new black training hoodie which is as suitable out and about as it is in the gym. If this is the case, then you may want to check out our Vintage 247 Hoodie in Black. With an oversized fit, crafted from a medium weight jersey cotton, this black gym hoodie features Old English Typography 247 branding to the front and an etched graphic of George and the Dragon to the back. It has internal branded drawstrings to the hood for an adjustable fit.
If you're looking for a more minimalist gym hoodie, then check out the Team 247 Hoodie in black.
Closing Thoughts
This blog article has presented some of the best black hoodies for men. It began by explaining the history of black hoodies; their cultural relevance over time and rise in popularity in modern fashion. It then presented the best black hoodies for men, splitting them out into categories to help you find your favourite style.
If you're looking for more colourful hoodies, then be sure to also explore our collection of blue hoodies, green hoodies, red hoodies and pink hoodies. If you prefer more toned down colourways, then also take a look at our grey hoodies and brown hoodies. If you're looking for a more maximalist design, then be sure to explore our wide range of graphic hoodies. If you're looking for a heavier style hoodie, whilst you're here be sure to check out our range of heavyweight hoodies.
If you're a fan of an oversized fit, you should also check out our range of men's oversized hoodies and women's oversized hoodies.
