You’re standing in front of your closet, gym bag packed, but you can’t decide between the Sam Sulek hoodie and the crewneck. Both look good, but one will leave you sweating through your set while the other keeps you comfortable from warm-up to cool-down. I’ve tested both over dozens of sessions, and here’s what I’ve found.
Key Differences Between Sam Sulek Hoodies and Crewnecks
Design and Construction
The Sam Sulek hoodie features a full-zip front with a stowable hood, making it easy to layer or remove mid-workout. The crewneck is a pullover with a ribbed collar and cuffs. Both use the same 350GSM cotton-poly blend (80% cotton, 20% polyester), but the hoodie adds a double-stitched hood seam and a front kangaroo pocket. The crewneck has a simpler, sleeker silhouette.Heat Management
Hoodies trap more heat around the neck and head. If your gym runs warm or you run hot, the crewneck offers better airflow. The crewneck’s lower collar lets heat escape. I’ve found the hoodie is better for outdoor walks to the gym or cold gyms.Best Use Cases for Each Style
Hoodie: The Versatile Layer
Use the hoodie when you need to transition between environments. Walk to the gym in cold weather, open the zip during your warm-up, and remove it easily for lifting. The hood keeps your neck warm during rest periods. Price: $64.99.Crewneck: The Lifting Staple
Grab the crewneck for serious lifting sessions. Its close fit (more on sizing below) stays out of the way during bench press or squats. No hood bunching behind your neck. Price: $54.99. For $10 less, you get a more streamlined piece.When to Skip Both
If you’re doing high-intensity cardio or training in a hot room, choose a performance tee instead. These are cotton-heavy, so they absorb sweat and get heavy.Sizing and Fit Comparison
| Feature | Hoodie | Crewneck |
|---|---|---|
| Size range | S - 3XL | S - 3XL |
| Fit | Relaxed, roomy | Standard, slightly tapered |
| Chest (size L) | 46" | 44" |
| Length (size L) | 29" | 28" |
| Sleeve | Raglan, 34" | Set-in, 33" |
| Weight | 1.5 lbs | 1.3 lbs |
Both are pre-shrunk, but the hoodie shrinks about 2% more after first wash due to the hood’s weight. I recommend sizing up in the hoodie if you want a loose fit for layering. The crewneck fits true to size - I wear a large in both, and the hoodie gives me an inch more room in the chest.
Sleeve Length Differences
The hoodie’s raglan sleeves allow more shoulder movement - great for overhead pressing. The crewneck’s set-in sleeves are snugger; I noticed slight pulling during lateral raises. If mobility is key, hoodie wins.Care and Durability Tips
Both are made from the same base fabric, but the hoodie’s extra seams (hood attachment, pocket) create potential weak points. To extend life:
- Wash inside out in cold water to reduce pilling.
- Air dry both to avoid shrinking. The hoodie’s drawstrings can tangle in the dryer.
- Avoid fabric softener - it breaks down the poly fibers.
- Spot clean the hoodie’s pocket lining if you use it for chalk or keys.
In my testing after 20 washes, the crewneck retained its shape better. The hoodie’s hood edge curled slightly. Neither faded - the black dye is solid.
Which One Should You Choose for Your Gym Wardrobe
- If you lift in a cold gym or train outdoors: Hoodie. The hood and roomier fit keep you warm during rests.
- If you prioritize mobility for overhead or Olympic lifts: Hoodie. Raglan sleeves give you full range.
- If you want a clean, no-fuss look for strictly indoor lifting: Crewneck. Less bulk, fewer distractions.
- If you’re on a budget: Crewneck. Same material, $10 cheaper, longer lasting.
- If you like to layer a hoodie under a jacket: Crewneck. The hoodie’s extra bulk creates bunching under a windbreaker.
Final Recommendation
For most gym-goers, the Sam Sulek hoodie is the better buy. Its versatility - easy on/off, hood for warmth, raglan sleeves for movement - outperforms the crewneck in more scenarios. Yes, it costs $10 more and may shrink slightly more, but the trade-off is worth it. If you train in a controlled climate and never use hoods, the crewneck is a solid second choice.
Ready to upgrade your gym gear? Check out the Sam Sulek hoodie and crewneck at the store. Both ship within 5-10 business days. - -
Frequently Asked Questions
#### Sam Sulek hoodie vs crewneck: which is more durable? The crewneck tends to last longer because it has fewer seams and no hood that can curl or fade. After 20 washes, the crewneck showed less wear.
#### Do Sam Sulek hoodies shrink? Yes, the hoodie shrinks about 2-3% after the first wash. It’s pre-shrunk, but the hood adds weight that pulls the fabric. Wash cold and air dry to minimize shrinkage.
#### Which is better for overhead pressing? The hoodie, due to its raglan sleeves that allow more shoulder freedom. The crewneck’s set-in sleeves can restrict movement during overhead lifts.
#### Are Sam Sulek hoodies and crewnecks the same fabric? Yes, both are 80% cotton, 20% polyester 350GSM fleece. The difference is in the design: hoodie has a hood and pocket, crewneck is a pullover.
#### Can I wear the crewneck for outdoor runs? Not ideal. The cotton absorbs sweat and gets heavy. For outdoor runs, choose a moisture-wicking synthetic instead.
