The best hoodie is one that strikes the perfect balance between breathability, comfort, quality, and functionality, tailored to the wearer’s lifestyle and preferences. Ideal hoodies are made from durable fabrics like cotton fleece or cotton-polyester blends, offering softness, warmth, and breathability. Key features include reinforced stitching, a sturdy zip (for zip-ups), and a lined hood with adjustable drawstrings. Weight matters too: mid-weight hoodies (280-320 GSM) are versatile for everyday wear, layering, or custom printing, as they hold designs well without sacrificing comfort. Whether you prioritise athletic performance, streetwear style, or eco-conscious materials, the best hoodie brand for you depends on fit, durability, and how easily it adapts to your needs.
Some Australian hoodie brands prioritise comfort and durability, with the main differentiators being fabric quality, stitching, and fit. Others focus on style, offering unique designs, premium textures, or minimalist aesthetics. Functionality also matters, athletic hoodies wick sweat, while eco-conscious brands use organic or recycled materials. Comfort and durability are measurable, while style is subjective. Availability also plays a role, as some brands are exclusive or region-specific.
Custom hoodies! professional look!
Some of the best hoodie brands in Australia include AS Colour for its premium heavyweight fleece ideal for custom printing and everyday durability, Biz Collection for its budget-friendly blanks that make bulk orders and branding projects effortless, Aussie Pacific for its relaxed streetwear aesthetic with superior comfort in bold colours, American Apparel for its iconic slim-fit design and ultra-soft 50/50 cotton blend that defined modern basics, and JB s Wear for its no-nonsense workwear-ready hoodies built to withstand heavy use. Many other standout hoodie brands excel in specific niches, which we’ll explore in detail below.
AS Colour
AS Colour is widely regarded as the go-to brand for those chasing top-tier quality, especially when it comes to hoodies. Known for their clean designs, consistent sizing, and superior fabric, AS Colour hoodies are built for both retail appeal and print reliability. Their most popular styles, like the Stencil Hood (5101) and Supply Hood (5102), offer mid to heavyweight options (ranging from 290 to 350 GSM), crafted from soft, preshrunk cotton or cotton/poly blends that provide a smooth surface for screen printing, DTG, or embroidery.
One standout feature is their ethical production approach. AS Colour is OEKO-TEX® certified and follows strict social responsibility guidelines, making them a favourite among eco-conscious brands. Whether you’re printing hoodies for streetwear labels, corporate events, or retail collections, AS Colour delivers a polished, long-lasting finish that speaks volumes about your brand. Simply put, if you’re after a hoodie that feels as good as it looks, AS Colour is hard to beat.
Biz Collection
Biz Collection hoodies are all about functionality, comfort, and durability, designed to perform in demanding settings like workplaces, sports clubs, and promotional events. Unlike fashion-first brands, Biz Collection focuses on creating practical hoodies with features that make them ideal for uniforms and teamwear. Their most popular options, like the Men’s and Ladies Flex Hoodies (SW710M/L) and Team Zip Hoodies, are made from midweight to heavyweight cotton-rich fleece blends, offering warmth without compromising breathability. They typically sit around the 300 GSM mark, great for embroidery, screen printing, and heat press transfers.
What makes Biz Collection stand out is its commitment to consistent sizing, easy-care fabrics, and an expansive unisex and women s fit range, helping businesses streamline bulk orders with confidence. With a wide selection of colours, including corporate tones and team colours, they’re ideal for staff uniforms, branded merchandise, or event giveaways. If you’re looking for no-fuss hoodies that wear well, print clean, and hold up over time, Biz Collection hoodies ticks all the boxes.
Aussie Pacific
Aussie Pacific has carved out a solid reputation in Australia for producing durable, high-quality garments that are made to move with you literally. Their hoodies are designed with active lifestyles and team environments in mind, making them a top choice for sports clubs, schools, and outdoor workplaces. Built with cotton-rich fleece blends and mid-to-heavyweight fabrics, Aussie Pacific hoodies strike the right balance between warmth and breathability. What sets the brand apart is its attention to Aussie sizing, classic cuts, and functional features like zip pockets, adjustable hoods, and solid ribbed hems, making them ideal for embroidery or print-heavy branding.
Your Hoodie. Your Way.
Popular across workwear programs and teamwear kits, Aussie Pacific hoodies are engineered for both comfort and performance. The fabric holds up well to regular washing and delivers a smooth finish for screen printing, heat transfer, or embroidery. If you’re after a hoodie brand that understands the needs of Aussie businesses, teams, and tradies, Aussie Pacific brings performance, practicality, and consistent quality to the table.
JB’s Wear
JB’s Wear is an Australian icon in the world of uniforms and promotional apparel, trusted for its rugged construction, dependable sizing, and print-friendly fabrics. Their hoodies are designed with the demands of real-world Aussie conditions in mind perfect for tradies, schools, sports clubs, and corporate teams. JB’s Wear stands out for its heavyweight brushed fleece, high cotton content, and reinforced seams, making their hoodies not only comfortable but incredibly durable. The brand also caters to a wide audience, offering unisex, men s, women’s, and kids cuts, plus an impressive colour range that suits branding needs across industries.
Popular picks like the 3FJ (Full Zip Fleecy Hoodie) and the 3FH (Pullover Fleecy Hoodie) are consistent best-sellers. These styles are made from 320 GSM cotton-rich fleece and come with practical features like lined hoods, adjustable drawcords, kangaroo or side pockets, and durable zip closures. JB’s Wear hoodies smooth surface is ideal for screen printing, embroidery, and heat transfer, ensuring your logo or design looks sharp and lasts long. For businesses wanting Aussie-tough hoodies that hold up on-site, in the classroom, or at a branded event, JB’s Wear delivers unmatched reliability at the right price point.
Gildan
Gildan is a global heavyweight when it comes to blank apparel, and in Australia, it s a top pick for custom hoodies that deliver great value without compromising quality. Known for their consistency in fit, printability, and durability, Gildan hoodies are ideal for schools, tradies, businesses, and merch resellers looking to produce quality garments at scale. Their hoodies are crafted using soft cotton-polyester fleece, engineered to be warm, easy to print on, and resistant to pilling, making them reliable for both embroidery and print methods like screen printing and DTG.
Two of their best-performing options include the Men s Hooded Sweatshirt and the Men s Full Zip Hooded Sweatshirt. The pullover version features a double-lined hood with drawcords, a roomy kangaroo pouch, and ribbed cuffs and waistband for shape retention. The full zip version offers the same comfort and fleece-lined warmth but with the added functionality of a sturdy zip front and split pockets perfect for clients who want layering options. With a wide colour range and robust build, Gildan s hoodies offer a dependable foundation for any branding or uniform project, all while keeping your margins healthy.
Bocini
Bocini is well-known across Australia for delivering affordable, practical, and performance-ready apparel, and their hoodies are no exception. This brand excels in supplying garments for schools, sports clubs, events, and promotional campaigns where functionality and budget are just as important as comfort and branding potential. Bocini hoodies are designed with wearability in mind, typically made from polyester-rich or poly-cotton fleece blends that offer lightweight warmth, quick drying, and easy-care benefits ideal for active environments or regular wear.
Popular options like the Unisex Adults Hooded Fleece Sweatshirt and Full Zip Hooded Fleece Jacket feature classic, relaxed fits, spacious front pockets, and durable finishes perfect for screen printing or embroidery. The fabric provides a smooth surface that holds logos and team branding cleanly, while the colour range caters to both corporate and casual use. If you’re working with schools, community clubs, or organisations that need bulk, budget-friendly hoodies with good printability and reliable comfort, Bocini is a solid all-rounder that ticks the essential boxes.
Comfort Colors
Comfort Colors is all about easy comfort and washed-in style. Known for their garment-dyed, vintage-inspired finish, Comfort Colors hoodies bring a lived-in feel that resonates with laidback Australian brands, surf labels, music merch, and lifestyle apparel lines. What sets them apart is their ultra-soft cotton, achieved through ring-spun yarn and a special dyeing process that gives every piece a unique, gently faded look. These hoodies are perfect for customers who want their apparel to feel broken-in from day one, without sacrificing quality or printability.
Their Men s Hooded Sweatshirt is a standout piece made from 100% ring-spun cotton (approx. 350 GSM), offering a heavyweight yet soft fleece interior, ideal for colder months or premium merchandise. It s got a classic relaxed fit, ribbed cuffs, and a spacious front pocket delivering both comfort and that signature vintage aesthetic. For something lighter, the Adults Lightweight Hooded Sweatshirt provides a similar soft feel with a slightly thinner profile, making it perfect for transitional weather or layering. Both styles are pigment-dyed for that washed, worn-in colour effect and are compatible with DTG and embroidery, though screen printing is preferred for best results on dyed fabrics.
If your goal is to deliver hoodies with a premium, lifestyle edge and an authentic vintage vibe, Comfort Colors offers the perfect mix of comfort, character, and customisation potential.
American Apparel
American Apparel has long been celebrated for its cool, street-inspired aesthetic, and their hoodies are no exception. Known for combining minimalist design with premium comfort, American Apparel hoodies are a go-to for brands that want their custom garments to look and feel retail-ready. Their fabrics are soft yet durable, their fits are modern without being restrictive, and their attention to detail from stitching to finish is consistently high across the board.
Two of their standout pieces, the Adult Reflex Pullover Hoodie and the Adult Reflex Zip Hooded Sweatshirt, have become top sellers thanks to their lightweight 50/50 poly-cotton blend, brushed interior, and smooth surface that’s ideal for screen printing, DTG, or embroidery. Whether you’re outfitting a fashion label, a creative team, or a promo campaign, American Apparel delivers hoodies with a premium look, luxe feel, and long-lasting wear that truly elevates your brand.
Australia’s Hoodie Game, Upgraded.
What Should You Consider while Choosing the Best Hoodie Brand?
When selecting the best hoodie brand for custom printing or branding, it’s important to consider a mix of fabric quality, fit, printing compatibility, and purpose.
1. Fabric Composition & GSM (Weight)
The foundation of any great hoodie lies in its fabric. When evaluating different brands, it’s important to look at the material blend, such as 80% cotton and 20% polyester, and the GSM (grams per square metre), which indicates the fabric’s weight and warmth. A higher GSM generally means a thicker, warmer hoodie, ideal for colder climates, premium retail garments, or streetwear collections.
Cotton-rich fabrics offer a soft, breathable feel and provide an excellent surface for printing methods like screen printing and DTG. On the other hand, polyester blends add strength, colour retention, and moisture-wicking properties, making them better suited for activewear or garments that will be frequently washed. In short, choose cotton for comfort and a natural feel, and opt for cotton-poly blends when durability and performance are key.
2. Fit & Sizing Consistency
A hoodie can look great at first glance, but if the sizing is inconsistent, it can quickly become a problem, especially in bulk orders. The best hoodie brands offer true-to-size garments with reliable and consistent measurements across different styles and production runs.
Fit plays a major role in customer satisfaction and usability. Slim or fashion fits, often offered by brands like AS Colour and American Apparel, cater to a younger, trend-driven audience looking for a more tailored silhouette. Meanwhile, regular or classic fits are common in JB’s Wear and Biz Collection and are ideal for schools, staff uniforms, and general use where comfort and ease of movement are key. Unisex sizing options are also popular for streamlining group orders across varied body types. To avoid any sizing mishaps, always consult the brand’s size charts and consider ordering samples for quality assurance before placing a large order.
3. Print & Embroidery Compatibility
Not all hoodies handle decoration the same way, and understanding how different fabrics respond to various printing or embroidery techniques is crucial for achieving a professional finish. The surface texture, weave tightness, and fabric treatment can all affect the final outcome. For screen printing, flat, tightly woven cotton fabrics are ideal as they allow for crisp, clean prints with excellent ink absorption.
DTG (Direct-to-Garment) printing performs best on smooth, pre-treated cotton surfaces where vibrant, detailed artwork can be accurately replicated. Embroidery demands thicker, more stable fabrics that won’t stretch or distort under the tension of stitching, which ensures logos or designs maintain their shape and clarity. For vinyl or heat transfer, low-pile fleece blends that can withstand high temperatures without scorching or melting are the best choice. Brands like AS Colour, Gildan, and American Apparel are popular among decorators for their versatile, print-friendly fabrics that work reliably across all major decoration methods.
4. Colour Range & Style Variety
A diverse hoodie range with multiple colours, styles, and finishes allows you to meet the needs of various clients, events, and branding campaigns. The best hoodie brands offer not only core colours like black, navy, and grey, which are essential for uniforms and corporate branding, but also seasonal tones and vibrant shades that appeal to fashion-forward audiences and youth markets.
Style variety is just as important. Whether your customers prefer classic pullovers, zip-through hoodies, lightweight options for layering, or heavier builds for warmth, having these choices enhances your offering. Some brands also cater to niche preferences with cropped, oversized, or streetwear-inspired silhouettes. Brands such as Gildan, Bocini, and JB’s Wear provide a broad colour palette suitable for bulk and commercial orders, while AS Colour and Comfort Colors excel in delivering trendy, pigment-dyed, and vintage-style shades for retail or boutique labels. The more options you have, the easier it is to match your customer’s brand identity or design brief.
5. Durability & Construction Quality
For hoodies intended as staff uniforms, teamwear, or school leavers’ apparel, durability is non-negotiable. These garments are worn often, washed regularly, and expected to maintain their shape and appearance over time. High-quality construction starts with double-needle stitching on key seams, which reinforces the garment and prevents early wear and tear.
Preshrunk fabric is essential to reduce shrinkage after washing, ensuring the hoodie continues to fit well long after it s printed. Features like ribbed cuffs and waistbands help the hoodie retain its shape, even with frequent use. A brushed fleece interior adds softness and insulation, enhancing comfort without compromising the garment s integrity. Brands like JB s Wear and Biz Collection are trusted for their rugged, work-ready builds, while AS Colour and Comfort Colors are known for delivering refined, retail-quality finishes that combine durability with premium feel. Whether you re after heavy-duty performance or long-lasting style, construction quality is a key factor in picking the right hoodie brand.
6. Ethical & Sustainable Practices
In today s apparel market, more customers are prioritising ethical sourcing and environmental responsibility, making sustainability a key consideration when choosing a hoodie brand. It s important to work with manufacturers that are transparent about their labour conditions, supply chains, and material sourcing.
Reputable brands often hold certifications such as OEKO-TEX®, WRAP (Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production), and the Better Cotton Initiative (BCI), which signal adherence to responsible production practices. Some brands go further by incorporating organic cotton, using water-based dyes, and operating with renewable energy to reduce their environmental footprint.
For clients with corporate social responsibility goals or environmentally conscious values, these factors matter. Brands like AS Colour and American Apparel are known for their ethical commitments, maintaining high standards in fair labour and sustainability. Comfort Colors also leads with eco-conscious dyeing methods that minimise water and energy use. Choosing ethically made hoodies not only supports responsible manufacturing but also strengthens your offering to clients who care about people and the planet.
7. Price Point vs. Purpose
Selecting the right hoodie often comes down to balancing cost with intended use. Not every project requires a premium garment, just as not every budget hoodie will suit high-end branding. Premium hoodies such as those from Comfort Colors or AS Colour are ideal for retail, boutique fashion brands, and merchandise lines where look, feel, and longevity are critical. These garments justify their higher price with superior fabric, construction, and print quality.
Mid-range hoodies, like those from Gildan and American Apparel, strike a good balance between cost and quality, making them suitable for corporate branding, school leavers’ gear, and event giveaways where both appearance and affordability matter. For large-scale projects where the budget is tight, value-driven brands such as Bocini and JB s Wear provide a reliable, cost-effective solution for bulk uniforms, promotions, or fundraiser apparel. Ultimately, the best choice depends on the end-use opt for premium when resale value or image is a priority, and go budget-friendly when scale and cost-efficiency matter most.
8. Availability & Local Stock Support
No matter how good a hoodie looks or performs, it s of little use if it s not readily available when you need it. Product availability and local stock support are critical, especially for decorators working on tight deadlines or fulfilling repeat orders. The best brands maintain strong stockholdings within Australia, backed by efficient supply chains and responsive distributors.
This ensures that you can access the sizes, colours, and quantities you need without delays. Reliable brands also offer consistent inventory tracking, quick replenishment cycles, and dependable customer service, so you can plan with confidence and avoid last-minute setbacks. Brands like JB s Wear, Biz Collection, and Gildan are known for their robust local distribution networks, making them a preferred choice for high-volume printers, uniform suppliers, and promo businesses across the country. Choosing a brand with solid local support means fewer disruptions and smoother production from start to finish.
What Type of Hoodie Should You Wear?
You should wear the following types of hoodies:
- Pullover Hoodie
- Zip-Up Hoodie
- Lightweight Hoodie
- Heavyweight Hoodie
- Slim-Fit Hoodie
- Oversized Hoodie
- Performance Hoodie
- Fleece-Lined Hoodie
Wearing the right type of hoodie depends on your intended use, climate, and personal style. For instance, if you’re heading to the gym or working outdoors, a lightweight or performance hoodie is better suited to keep you cool and flexible. Meanwhile, if you’re out in winter or simply want maximum warmth, a heavyweight or fleece-lined hoodie is the smarter choice; it’ll insulate you without the bulk of a jacket.
On the flip side, hoodies are also a powerful fashion and branding tool. A pullover hoodie gives off a casual, laid-back vibe, while a slim-fit or oversized hoodie can reflect personal style or align with your brand’s identity. For work uniforms or printed merchandise, the style also affects how well it carries logos or embroidery. So, picking the right hoodie isn’t just about comfort; it’s about wearing something that fits your function, setting, and image.
What type of hoodies are popular among Gen-Z?
Among Gen Z, oversized, drop-shoulder, and vintage-washed hoodies are particularly popular, reflecting their preference for comfort, individuality, and retro-inspired fashion. They gravitate towards styles with a relaxed fit, soft cotton fleece, and muted or earthy tones often seen in brands like AS Colour, Comfort Colors, and American Apparel. Gen Z also favours hoodies with bold graphics, minimalist logos, or streetwear aesthetics, making pullover and cropped hoodies top choices for both casual wear and self-expression. Sustainability is another key driver, with many opting for ethically made or recycled-fabric options that align with their values.
