They may look similar at first—but sweaters and sweatshirts are not the same thing.
Sweaters are knitted garments often made from wool or yarns for warmth and style, while sweatshirts are cotton-based, fleece-lined tops made for comfort and casual wear.
When we first launched a winter line, customers kept asking why one item was called a sweater and another a sweatshirt—even though both were long-sleeved and cozy. That’s when I knew this wasn’t just a style choice—it was a fabric, function, and fashion difference. Here’s how to tell them apart simply and clearly.
What defines a sweater?
It’s all about the knit—and the feel.
A sweater is a knitted garment made from wool, cotton, or synthetic yarns, designed primarily for warmth and layered styling.
Sweaters can be hand-knit or machine-made. They come in various styles: crewneck, V-neck, turtleneck, cardigan. The yarn gives it stretch and texture. In our collections, we use acrylic or cotton-blend yarns for easier care, while wool options are for premium drops.
You’ll find them ribbed, cable-knit, or smooth—each offering a different thickness and weight. They’re more breathable than sweatshirts but not always as soft against bare skin.
What makes a sweatshirt different?
It’s stitched—not knitted—and built for comfort.
A sweatshirt is a pullover made from jersey or fleece fabric, often brushed on the inside, offering warmth, softness, and a relaxed fit.
Sweatshirts are usually made from cotton or cotton-poly blends. The inside is often brushed for softness, giving it that cozy fleece feel. Unlike sweaters, which are knit, sweatshirts are sewn from flat-cut fabric.
Most of our sweatshirts use loopback or fleece-backed jersey, with ribbed cuffs and hem. They’re less breathable than open-knit sweaters but much easier to print on and brand.
How do fabric and construction differ?
Sweaters are knitted from yarn, creating loops that offer elasticity and warmth, while sweatshirts are sewn from woven or jersey fabric.
If you look closely, a sweater has visible knit loops. You can usually stretch it a little, and the texture looks three-dimensional. A sweatshirt, on the other hand, is flatter, smoother, and more uniform—like a thick T-shirt with lining.
Here’s a basic comparison:
| Feature | Sweater | Sweatshirt |
|---|---|---|
| Fabric | Knit yarns (wool, cotton, etc.) | Jersey or fleece (cotton blends) |
| Construction | Loop-knit, no seams | Cut and sewn with seams |
| Texture | Chunky, textured | Smooth outside, brushed inside |
| Stretch | Natural stretch from knit | Minimal stretch unless added |
Which is better for casual wear?
Sweatshirts are the go-to for casual, sporty, or athleisure styles, while sweaters are better for smart-casual or refined cozy looks.
If I’m styling a laid-back hoodie or oversized pullover, I reach for sweatshirts. They’re easy to layer over leggings or joggers. But when I want to look a little more styled—maybe for dinner or work from home—I use sweaters. They pair better with trousers or layered shirts.
For retail, I recommend stocking both: sweatshirts for younger, trend-driven buyers and sweaters for colder seasons and more elevated looks.
How do they differ in care and durability?
Sweatshirts are easier—but sweaters age with grace.
Sweatshirts are machine-washable and durable, while sweaters often require delicate washing and pill over time depending on fiber.
We always note care labels clearly. Most sweatshirts go straight in the wash. No fuss. Sweaters made of wool or blends? They need more attention—hand-washing or delicate cycles, plus flat drying to avoid shape loss.
That said, sweaters can last for years with proper care. They develop character and softness, especially premium knits. Sweatshirts tend to fade and flatten out with time.
Conclusion
Sweaters and sweatshirts may serve the same purpose—warmth—but they take two very different paths to get there: one knit, one stitched, each with its own story.
