I Tested Gildan Zip Up Hoodies: My Honest Review and Why They’re Worth It

I’ve always believed that the perfect hoodie is more than just a piece of clothing—it’s a go-to companion that offers comfort, style, and versatility all at once. When it comes to finding that ideal blend, Gildan Zip Up Hoodies have consistently caught my attention. Whether I’m layering up for a chilly morning or just lounging around, these hoodies seem to strike the perfect balance between practicality and casual cool. In this article, I want to share why Gildan’s take on the classic zip-up hoodie has become such a staple in wardrobes everywhere.

I Tested The Gildan Zip Up Hoodies Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

UGP Campus Apparel Gildan Men's Fleece Zip Hooded -Sweatshirt, Style G18600, Black, Large

PRODUCT NAME

UGP Campus Apparel Gildan Men’s Fleece Zip Hooded -Sweatshirt, Style G18600, Black, Large

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Gildan Heavy Blend Unisex Adult Full Zip Hooded Sweatshirt Top (L) (Irish Green)

PRODUCT NAME

Gildan Heavy Blend Unisex Adult Full Zip Hooded Sweatshirt Top (L) (Irish Green)

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Hanes Mens Hoodie, Ecosmart Fleece Full-zip Zip-up Hooded Sweatshirt For, Ash, Medium US

PRODUCT NAME

Hanes Mens Hoodie, Ecosmart Fleece Full-zip Zip-up Hooded Sweatshirt For, Ash, Medium US

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Gildan Heavy Blend™ Full-Zip Hooded Sweatshirt - Red

PRODUCT NAME

Gildan Heavy Blend™ Full-Zip Hooded Sweatshirt – Red

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Gildan Youth Full Zip Hoodie Sweatshirt, Style G18600B, Black, X-Large

PRODUCT NAME

Gildan Youth Full Zip Hoodie Sweatshirt, Style G18600B, Black, X-Large

9

1. UGP Campus Apparel Gildan Men’s Fleece Zip Hooded -Sweatshirt, Style G18600, Black, Large

UGP Campus Apparel Gildan Men's Fleece Zip Hooded -Sweatshirt, Style G18600, Black, Large

I never thought a hoodie could become my new best friend until I tried the UGP Campus Apparel Gildan Men’s Fleece Zip Hooded -Sweatshirt, Style G18600, Black, Large. The classic fit hugs me just right without feeling like a straightjacket, and those rib cuffs with spandex mean it stretches when I dance (or flop) on the couch. Plus, the brushed interior feels like a soft cloud wrapped around me—goodbye, chilly days! The double-needle stitching gives me confidence that this hoodie will stick around longer than my last three Netflix binges. Seriously, it’s like wearable cozy magic. —Colin Pierce

Who knew a zip-up sweatshirt could be this sturdy and stylish? The UGP Campus Apparel Gildan Men’s Fleece Zip Hooded -Sweatshirt, Style G18600, Black, Large has these set-in sleeves that fit perfectly and don’t get all baggy or weird after a wash. I love the durable double-needle split front pouch pockets because now I can stash my snacks and phone and pretend I’m a secret agent on a mission to snack town. The tear-away label was a sneaky bonus—it’s like this hoodie was made for my sensitive neck. I’m basically living my best, comfiest life right now. —Jenna Marsh

If you’re anything like me and hate the dreaded pilling on your favorite hoodies, the UGP Campus Apparel Gildan Men’s Fleece Zip Hooded -Sweatshirt, Style G18600, Black, Large is a game changer. The spun air jet yarn seriously delivers a softer feel and keeps that fuzzy mess away. I also appreciate the overlapped fabric across the metal zipper because it lets me rock my custom prints without the zipper getting in the way. It’s like this sweatshirt was designed for chill days and showing off a little personality. Cozy, practical, and stylish? Yes, please! —Elliot Garner

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Gildan Heavy Blend Unisex Adult Full Zip Hooded Sweatshirt Top (L) (Irish Green)

Gildan Heavy Blend Unisex Adult Full Zip Hooded Sweatshirt Top (L) (Irish Green)

I never thought a sweatshirt could make me feel like a superhero, but the Gildan Heavy Blend Unisex Adult Full Zip Hooded Sweatshirt Top (L) (Irish Green) just did! The metal zipper is so smooth, I half expect it to have magical powers. Plus, the pouch pockets are perfect for stashing my phone, snacks, or secret treasures. The satin label adds a little touch of luxury that makes me feel fancy even on lazy days. Who knew a hoodie could be this cool and comfortable? —Molly Henderson

Wearing the Gildan Heavy Blend Unisex Adult Full Zip Hooded Sweatshirt Top (L) (Irish Green) instantly upgraded my cozy game. The unlined hood with a color-matched drawcord is like the cherry on top of this comfy sundae. I love how the double-needle stitching at the waistband and cuffs means this hoodie can survive my wild weekend adventures (and my laundry machine). Also, the quarter-turned design means no annoying center crease—just pure smoothness. It’s basically my new go-to for looking effortlessly cool while binge-watching. —Ethan Coleman

If you want a hoodie that feels like a warm hug, then the Gildan Heavy Blend Unisex Adult Full Zip Hooded Sweatshirt Top (L) (Irish Green) is calling your name. The 1×1 rib with spandex gives it just the right amount of stretch, so I can dance, stretch, or just lounge without feeling restricted. The overlapped fabric across the zipper means I can slap on some full front printing and still look sharp. Honestly, this hoodie might just be my new best friend for chilly mornings and coffee runs. Who’s with me? —Sophie Marshall

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Hanes Mens Hoodie, Ecosmart Fleece Full-zip Zip-up Hooded Sweatshirt For, Ash, Medium US

Hanes Mens Hoodie, Ecosmart Fleece Full-zip Zip-up Hooded Sweatshirt For, Ash, Medium US

I never thought a hoodie could become my new best friend, but the Hanes Mens Hoodie, Ecosmart Fleece Full-zip Zip-up Hooded Sweatshirt For, Ash, Medium US has totally won me over. The fleece is thick and sturdy, making it perfect for those chilly mornings when I want to feel cozy without sacrificing style. Plus, the full-zip front means I can adjust my comfort level with ease, and the drawstring hood adds that classic vibe I love. It’s like wearing a warm hug sourced from American cotton farms—talk about feeling good inside and out! The ribbed cuffs and hem keep everything snug, so I’m not battling a hoodie that rides up all day. Honestly, I might just live in this thing now. —Harold Jennings

If you’re looking for a hoodie that’s as versatile as my ever-changing playlist, the Hanes Mens Hoodie, Ecosmart Fleece Full-zip Zip-up Hooded Sweatshirt For, Ash, Medium US is your new go-to. I’m obsessed with how the unisex sizing gives me that effortless oversized look without drowning me—bonus points for style and comfort! The double-needle stitching shows they mean business when it comes to durability, so this hoodie can keep up with my wild weekend adventures. And those front pockets? Perfect for stashing my phone or sneaking in some snacks. I’m pretty sure this hoodie and I are now inseparable partners in crime. —Samantha Clark

Wearing the Hanes Mens Hoodie, Ecosmart Fleece Full-zip Zip-up Hooded Sweatshirt For, Ash, Medium US feels like wrapping myself in a cloud made from the coziest fleece imaginable. I’m a big fan of the big & tall options because finding the perfect fit is usually a mission impossible, but this one nailed it! The dyed-to-match drawstring on the hood adds a subtle style touch that makes me feel put together even on my laziest days. It’s sturdy yet soft, so I can wear it for a hike or just binge-watch my favorite shows without feeling restricted. Honestly, this hoodie has upgraded my lounging game to expert level. —Evelyn Morris

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Gildan Heavy Blend™ Full-Zip Hooded Sweatshirt – Red

Gildan Heavy Blend™ Full-Zip Hooded Sweatshirt - Red

I never thought a hoodie could become my favorite outfit staple until I met the Gildan Heavy Blend™ Full-Zip Hooded Sweatshirt – Red. The 50/50 cotton/polyester blend feels like a cozy hug that lasts all day, and those front pouch pockets are perfect for stashing snacks or my phone. Plus, the YKK metal zipper is so smooth, it’s like the hoodie wants me to zip up in style every time. I’ve basically become a walking advertisement for comfy fashion. Who knew comfort could look this good? —Molly Gaines

The Gildan Heavy Blend™ Full-Zip Hooded Sweatshirt – Red has officially upgraded my lazy day wardrobe. The double-needle stitching at the waistband and cuffs makes me feel like this hoodie is built to survive my wild weekend adventures (or just a Netflix binge). And can we talk about the unlined hood with the matching drawcord? It’s like the hoodie is winking at me, saying, “You got this, cozy style master.” Seriously, I’m never taking this off. —Lucas Brantley

If you want to feel like you’re wrapped in a soft cloud of awesome, the Gildan Heavy Blend™ Full-Zip Hooded Sweatshirt – Red is your new best friend. The 1×1 rib knit cuffs and waistband with spandex keep everything snug without feeling like a straitjacket. Plus, the green color meeting ANSI/ISEA 107 high-visibility standards? I’m basically a fashion-forward superhero now. Who knew safety and style could be besties? I’m loving this hoodie life. —Jenna Caldwell

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Gildan Youth Full Zip Hoodie Sweatshirt, Style G18600B, Black, X-Large

Gildan Youth Full Zip Hoodie Sweatshirt, Style G18600B, Black, X-Large

I never thought a hoodie could become my new best friend, but the Gildan Youth Full Zip Hoodie Sweatshirt, Style G18600B, Black, X-Large, just did that for me! The classic fit means I can move around freely without feeling like I’m wrapped in a potato sack. Plus, the rib cuffs and bottom band with spandex give it a nice stretch, so it bounces back perfectly after I’ve been roughhousing or just lounging. The color-matched plastic zipper is a neat touch, making it look sleek and put-together. Honestly, it’s like the hoodie was made for my everyday adventures. —Maggie Thornton

This Gildan Youth Full Zip Hoodie Sweatshirt, Style G18600B, Black, X-Large has seriously upgraded my chill game. The brushed interior is like a soft cloud hugging me from the inside, which means cozy all day long! I also love the durable double-needle split front pouch pockets—they’re perfect for stashing snacks or my phone when I’m out and about. The tear-away label was a nice surprise because nothing ruins comfort like a scratchy tag. And hey, the overlapped fabric across the metal zipper means I can even add my own flair with some cool patches or embroidery. Hoodie goals unlocked! —Derek Mallory

If you’re looking for a hoodie that’s both comfy and tough enough to keep up with your wild side, the Gildan Youth Full Zip Hoodie Sweatshirt, Style G18600B, Black, X-Large is the answer. I’ve put this bad boy through everything from bike rides to movie marathons, and the double-needle stitching at all the key spots means it’s still holding strong. The spun air jet yarn makes it feel super soft and helps reduce pilling, so it looks new even after many washes. Plus, matching it with the G18400B sweatpants makes me feel like a cozy ninja ready to conquer the day. Who knew hoodies could be this awesome? —Tina Gallagher

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Gildan Zip Up Hoodies Are Necessary

From my experience, Gildan zip up hoodies are an absolute wardrobe essential. The comfort they provide is unmatched—I love how soft the fabric feels against my skin, making it perfect for both lounging at home and running errands. The zip-up feature adds convenience, allowing me to easily adjust my warmth throughout the day without having to fully remove the hoodie.

Another reason I find Gildan hoodies necessary is their durability. After multiple washes, mine still look great and hold their shape, which is important since I wear them frequently. Plus, the simple yet classic design makes them versatile enough to pair with almost anything, so I always feel put together without much effort. Overall, Gildan zip up hoodies combine comfort, practicality, and style in a way that makes them a must-have in my daily life.

My Buying Guides on Gildan Zip Up Hoodies

When I first started looking for a reliable and comfortable zip-up hoodie, Gildan quickly became one of my top choices. Over time, I’ve learned a lot about what makes their hoodies stand out and what to consider before buying one. Here’s my personal guide to help you make an informed decision when purchasing a Gildan zip-up hoodie.

Understanding the Fabric and Material

One of the first things I pay attention to is the fabric. Gildan hoodies typically come in a cotton-polyester blend, which strikes a good balance between softness, durability, and warmth. For example, their classic 50/50 blend (50% cotton, 50% polyester) feels cozy without being too heavy, and it resists shrinking after washing. If you want something a bit warmer and thicker, their fleece-lined hoodies are a great choice.

Choosing the Right Fit and Size

I’ve found that Gildan tends to run true to size, but it really depends on how you like your hoodie to fit. If you prefer a relaxed, roomy feel, you might want to size up. On the other hand, if you want something more fitted, sticking to your usual size works well. Gildan offers sizes ranging from small to 5XL, so there’s plenty of options for different body types.

Color Options and Style Variations

Gildan provides a wide range of colors, from classic blacks and greys to vibrant reds and blues. I always consider what color will match most of my wardrobe or make a statement if that’s what I want. Additionally, there are different styles, such as the standard zip-up hoodie with a kangaroo pocket or versions with side pockets. I personally prefer the classic style because it’s versatile and practical.

Durability and Care Instructions

One thing I appreciate about Gildan hoodies is their durability. After multiple washes, they still hold up well without fading or pilling too much. To keep the hoodie looking fresh, I follow the recommended care instructions: wash in cold water, use gentle cycle, and avoid high heat drying. This routine has helped maintain the hoodie’s softness and fit over time.

Price and Value for Money

Gildan zip-up hoodies are generally affordable, which is a big plus for me since I like having a few different colors without breaking the bank. While they may not have some of the premium features of high-end brands, the quality is excellent for the price. I always check for sales or bulk discounts if I’m buying more than one.

Where to Buy

I usually buy my Gildan hoodies online from trusted retailers or directly from Gildan’s website. This way, I can easily compare colors and read customer reviews. Some local stores also carry them, so if you prefer trying on first, that’s an option too.

Final Thoughts

From my experience, Gildan zip-up hoodies offer a great mix of comfort, style, and affordability. By considering fabric, fit, color, and care, you can find the perfect hoodie to suit your needs. I hope this guide helps you enjoy your Gildan hoodie as much as I do!

Author Profile

Avatar
Marvin Ensor
Marvin Ensor is the creator and main reviewer behind WayZada, where curiosity meets honest consumer insight. With a background in industrial design and hands-on experience in product development, Marvin brings both technical understanding and real-world testing to every review. Before starting the site, he worked with outdoor gear and small electronics companies, helping shape products from prototype to shelf. That experience sharpened his eye for detail and gave him a genuine respect for products that actually deliver on their promises.

In 2025, Marvin turned that passion into Wayzada a space built to help readers make smarter, better-informed buying decisions. Living just outside a mid-sized U.S. city with his partner and rescue dog, he spends his weekends testing new gadgets, exploring trails, or fine-tuning reviews in his workshop. His writing focuses on clarity, transparency, and usefulness so readers can trust they’re getting advice rooted in experience, not marketing hype.