Stay Classy & Comfortable Year-Round with Fleece Hoodies
Feb 08, 2024Imperial is well-known for our high-quality hats that help you look good and feel good while you’re out on the course, the slopes or the beach. And we’ve never sacrificed quality in the pursuit of new and exciting products. That’s why we’re so excited by our new collection of Imperial fleece hoodies and sweatshirts.
But before we let the cat out of the bag, let’s start at the beginning. What’s so iconic about these cold-weather essentials?
The Remarkable Evolution of Sweatshirts
Sweatshirts have long been a wardrobe staple, donned by sports stars, celebrities, students and everyday folks across the decades. But have you ever wondered about their origins?
Back in 1926, Benjamin Russell Jr., a footballer for the Alabama Crimson Tide, conceived the idea for an all-cotton practice jersey. This innovative jersey aimed to provide superior comfort and durability compared to the itchy wool jerseys commonly worn at the time.
Collaborating with his father, who owned a knitting company, they birthed the first sweatshirt: a loose-fitting, collarless pullover adorned with a V-notch at the neck. Athletes embraced it and it swiftly became a must-have in sportswear fashion.
The sweatshirt has since transformed, giving rise to various styles like hooded sweatshirts (hoodies), zip-up sweatshirts, crew neck sweatshirts and more.
Moreover, the sweatshirt has become a canvas for personal expression and affiliation, with universities, sports teams, brands and social movements imprinting their names and logos onto them.
Notably, the sweatshirt became an emblem of youthful rebellion and hip-hop culture in the 1970s and 1980s, thanks to its appearances in iconic movies like Rocky and endorsement by artists such as Run-DMC.
Even today, the sweatshirt remains a versatile and trendy garment accessible to individuals of all ages.
Unlocking the Power of Fleece in Outerwear
Let’s chat about fleece, a popular material in sweatshirt production. Crafted from polyester fibers, fleece boasts a soft and fluffy texture akin to sheep’s wool. It offers a range of benefits, including:
Durability: Fleece holds up well, enduring numerous washes and wears without losing its shape or texture.
Rapid Drying: It wicks moisture away from the skin and dries swiftly, making it perfect for outdoor activities and drizzly days.
Affordability: Fleece is cost-effective to produce and purchase, ensuring accessibility for all.
Sensory Pleasure: This fabric is incredibly soft and gentle to the touch, lacking the slippery feel
Hypoallergenic: Fleece doesn’t trigger allergies, making it suitable for those with sensitive skin or allergies.
Lightweight Insulation: Despite its lightness, fleece provides warmth and insulation without adding bulk or weight.
Given its versatility and sturdiness, it’s no surprise that fleece is a go-to choice for crafting snug and comfy outerwear. And that’s precisely why we’re diving headfirst into the fleece frenzy.