<p>We’re officially in <a href=”https://www.esquire.com/uk/style/fashion/a64808128/robert-pattinsons-layering/” target=”_blank”>layering season</a> now, and if <a href=”https://www.esquire.com/style/mens-fashion/g61937229/best-cardigans-for-men/” target=”_blank”>elevated cardigans</a> or <a href=”https://www.esquire.com/style/mens-fashion/g69254623/best-winter-sweaters-2025/” target=”_blank”>wool sweaters</a> lean a little more formal than you’d prefer, crewnecks can still be worn under your go-to <a href=”https://www.esquire.com/style/mens-fashion/g60535498/best-work-jackets-for-men/” target=”_blank”>work jackets</a> or <a href=”https://www.esquire.com/style/mens-fashion/g43684824/best-mens-quilted-jackets/” target=”_blank”>quilted puffers</a>. Despite their classic status, there are so many different variants on the sweatshirt to play around with. If you really are going to the gym, armed with <a href=”https://www.esquire.com/style/grooming/g69267185/best-deodorants-for-men/” target=”_blank”>heavy-duty deodorant</a> and some <a href=”https://www.esquire.com/style/g64042416/best-gym-shoes/” target=”_blank”>workout sneakers</a>, finding lightweight options that don’t get in the way are essential. For the streetstyle aficionado, a ’90s-inspired, oversized fit is both comfortable and cool. Or you could keep it classic with elevated options from <a href=”https://www.esquire.com/style/mens-fashion/a69238989/todd-snyder-sweatshirt-review/” target=”_blank”>Todd Snyder</a> and <a href=”https://www.esquire.com/style/mens-fashion/a65984459/buck-mason-clothing-review/” target=”_blank”>Buck Mason</a>–the choice is yours.</p><p>We scoured the market (and lounged around, all in the name of testing) to find the 10 best crewneck sweatshirts for every kind of man. From $10 Amazon staples to designer picks, there’s a crewneck out there for you. </p>” data-next-head/>
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Eli Schmidt
If you want a sweatshirt that’s comfortable but can still be dressed up, Todd Snyder’s made-in-Portugal option is our first pick. From the moody fall colorways to the heavyweight cotton, it can be worn to the gym (ideally paired with the matching joggers) or to the office. It has a boxier fit across the chest that makes it comfortable and warm for the winter, but the tapered fit along the waist adds an elegance that most crewnecks lack.
Features at a Glance
Colors
9
Sizes
XS-2XL
Materials
100% cotton
Fit
Boxy
Champion really, well, championed mens casual wear. For under $100, this cotton-and-polyester option is pretty much as standard as it gets. With a ribbed hem and wrist cuffs, it keeps out the winter breeze, but still feels lightweight enough to workout in before getting overheated. And despite the fact that it’s far from a luxury item, it won’t shrink or warp after frequent washing.
Features at a Glance
Colors
14
Sizes
XS-3XL
Materials
82% cotton, 18% polyester
Fit
Regular
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Buck Mason is the best place to get heritage-inspired menswear. At first glance, this piece is what we have come to expect from a crew neck: It’s made with heavyweight cotton, with tapered cuffs and the waistband. But the subtle stitching along the ribcage, along with the indigo dye that fades gently with each wash, gives it an elevated feel nonetheless.
Features at a Glance
Colors
2
Sizes
XS-2XL
Materials
100% 380 GSM cotton
Fit
Regular
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Headquartered in Los Angeles, Elwood’s ’90s-inspired line of leisurewear is a pleasantly surprising combination of low-cost and high-quality. Made with 100 percent cotton, its oversized crewneck–which also comes in zippered and hoodie varieties–arrives perfectly worn-in for instant comfort. It leans more athleisure than date-night, but any guy who’s inspired by streetwear needs at least one of these in his collection.
Features at a Glance
Colors
7
Sizes
XS-2XL
Materials
100% cotton
Fit
Oversized
We have mixed feelings on spending designer prices for an oft-washed crewneck, but Ami makes a solid case for their logo sweatshirt. Though its made with 99 percent cotton, the one percent of elastane adds a comfortable stretch that doesn’t compromise the structure of the garment. The heart-shaped logo on the chest is subtle enough to not be gauche, but adds a little element for those in-the-know to catch.
Features at a Glance
Colors
Black
Sizes
XS-XL
Materials
99% cotton, 1% elastane
Fit
Regular
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Hanes has impressed us before with the perfect T-shirt, and for layering season, it seems the brand has the perfect sweatshirt, too. With this vintage-wash, garment-dyed sweatshirt, the purveyor of all things basic proves that it has other tricks up its (very comfy) sleeve. Plus, it’s less than 11 bucks right now—you might as well stock up.
Colors
6
Sizes
S-3XL
Materials
80% cotton, 20% polyester
Fit
Oversize
When we’re feeling like it’s time to wear a sweatshirt, we want the softest option around—more often than not, that means Mack Weldon. Crafted from micro-brushed French terry, this sweatshirt is sure to be one of the softest things your closet will see in the fall and winter months. There are more than 10 colorways to choose from–mostly soft neutrals like blues and grays–so it’s easy to find one that fits into your existing wardrobe.
Colors
12
Sizes
S-2XL
Materials
89% cotton, 8% polyester, 3% spandex
Fit
Regular
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If your main criteria for a sweatshirt is that it’ll keep you warm while en route to the gym, Lululemon’s athleisure is a one-stop shop. While it might feel lightweight and breathable, the fleece-lined interior adds unparalleled coziness for the brisk, cold months. Plus, the minimalist look won’t be going out of style anytime soon.
Colors
8
Sizes
XS-2XL
Materials
70% cotton, 30% recycled polyester
Fit
Boxy
Pros
Sturdy materials
Classic design
Cons
Should be washed separately at first
Flint and Tinder is a favorite around these parts, and our editors love this sweatshirt as much as we love the brand’s sturdy outerwear. This American-made sweatshirt is solid, soft, and durable—everything a sweatshirt should be. Whether you’re going on a run, heading into the office, or just chilling on the couch, it’s up for any and every task.
Colors
9
Sizes
XS-2XL
Materials
100% cotton
Fit
Slim
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Pros
Comes in several colors
Very soft
Cons
Polyester blend
This is the pick for the guy that just wants one crewneck that can do it all. Coming in an array of tasteful washes, this midweight sueded fleece is cozy without being stifling. Dress it up with a pair of nice jeans and some loafers or down with sweats.
Colors
10
Sizes
XS–2XL
Materials
72% cotton, 28% polyester
Fit
Classic
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best fabrics for a crewneck sweatshirt?
This is pretty much down to preference and how heavy you want your sweatshirt to be. For something heavyweight, a cotton or terry pick would be best for pick–especially if it’s made from ten-ounce cotton or higher. If you want something lighter and more breathable, polyester blends are a safe bet, though they’re typically not as durable.
How should a crewneck sweatshirt fit?
Again, this is down to preference! For working out, something slim will be less likely to get in the way. For ultimate comfort, an oversize, boxy, and baggy style is a great choice—and they’re easier to layer under.
How should you style a crewneck sweatshirt?
With sweatpants or joggers is always a good bet—there’s nothing like a slouchy sweatsuit. But if you’re going for something more refined, jeans are never the wrong choice—especially if you want to have a button-down peeking out from under your crewneck. Most crewnecks have a tapered waist that can bubble around your pant’s hemline, but keep an eye out for boxy fits that could accidentally become cropped if your pants lean on the lower-waisted side.
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What to Look for in a Crewneck Sweatshirt
Cut: When it comes to finding the perfect sweatshirt, fit is more of a preference but still something to consider. For comfort, we like an oversize, boxy sweatshirt; some may prefer something tailored and slim, though. If you want to dress your sweatshirt up, a classic fit will serve you better than something big and baggy.
Construction: Some sweatshirts have extra features that ensure they’re going to serve you well for a long while. Look for things like dropped shoulders, which add flexibility, as well as double stitching and cross-grain construction for longevity and durability.
Fabric: Finally, consider how heavy you want your sweatshirt to be. Picks with fleece linings are going to add some extra weight and warmth, especially when compared with fabrics like French terry.
Dyes: While the color of your crewneck might come down to personal preference, keep an eye out for how brands dye its pieces. Garment-dyed means that the entire sweatshirt is dyed once its put together, as opposed to stitching up already-finished pieces of fabric. Depending on the dyeing technique, you can expect some color transfer at first. To be safe, always wash new pieces apart from the rest of your laundry.