We don’t tend to talk about hoodies all that often here at Proper. Not because we don’t like them, but because, frankly, the formula’s already been perfected. And that formula is simple: a good weight, a proper fit, and – non-negotiably -the right colour. Grey.
Not navy. Not black. Not some seasonal “plum” nonsense. Grey.
Much like a Ferrari should always be red, the hoodie reaches its purest form in grey marl. It’s the default setting. The version that makes everything else feel like an imposter. If you’re designing a hoodie and it doesn’t look right in grey, it’s probably just not a very good hoodie.
There’s also a deep heritage to the humble grey hoodie. From varsity athletes to Rocky Balboa, and every well-dressed person in between, has all been spotted in a plain grey hoodie. So while we might not shout about hoodies every day, don’t get it twisted – there’s only one colour that matters – and here are six of the best of them.
Champion Reverse Weave Hooded Sweatshirt
Nailing down who actually invented the hoodie is tough, but Champion is always in the conversation. They introduced their Reverse Weave back in the 1930s for athletes – built tough, cut right, and made to last. Decades later, it’s still the blueprint.
Camber USA 12oz Cross Knit Hoodie
Camber Hoodies are the stuff of legend. Made in the USA. Heavyweight quality. And ridiculously long wait times. These hoodies have rightfully earned a cult following, and if you want a garment that’ll easily outlive you, then look no further.
Power Goods – Super Weight Hoodie
The label graphic says it all – a bloke mid-boot to a shark’s face (Paul Sykes?), subtle this hoodie is not. And neither is the build quality. Super Weight isn’t a bit of marketing fluff – it’s Power Goods giving fair warning. This thing is properly hefty.
Like most things, Ralph also know their way around a plain grey hoodie. Nice embroidered rider, hefty reinforced pocket, and some very suave ecru drawstrings. An undeniable classic.
Nanamica Pullover Hooded Sweatshirt
In true Nanamica fashion, their grey hoodie takes a classic and quietly perfects it. Cotton is blended with polyester at the back of the hood, cuffs, and sides, boosting mobility and speeding up drying. Add in the slim drawstrings and a deliberately relaxed fit, and you’re onto an absolute winner.
Frizmworks OG Heavyweight Pullover Hoodie
Closing out our list with another heavy hitter, both figuratively and literally – the Frizmworks OG Heavyweight Hoodie. With its 975g loopback construction and noticeably thick neckline, this thing is an absolute tank.
