The Independent's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission. Why trust us?
10 best men's sweatshirts
When it’s still a bit too mild for a knit, layer-up with a wardrobe staple. IndyBest gets dressed
Support truly
independent journalism
Our mission is to deliver unbiased, fact-based reporting that holds power to account and exposes the truth.
Whether $5 or $50, every contribution counts.
Support us to deliver journalism without an agenda.
Louise Thomas
Editor
With winter waiting in the wings, now is the time to add to your collection. While we all probably have an old worn-sleeved favourite, splashing out on a well-cut sweatshirt is a good investment that makes for a smarter casual look. And, as the mercury drops, you can always justify it as a sensible purchase too.
1. Blue marble sweater: £50, originalpenguin.co.uk
Founded in Minneapolis in 1955, Penguin trades on a clean-cut, preppy look. This blue-hued sweater is a departure from some of its pared-back designs, but still has the same classic fit and Pete the Penguin logo.
2. Tech Fleece Crew: £70, store.nike.com
Nike makes some of the most coveted sportswear out there. Its lightweight, fleece-lined crewneck with pockets will become an instant wardrobe staple. Choose from black, grey and olive - or this colour-popping blue if you want a change from neutrals.
3. Loopback Sweat Moss: £95, sunspel.com
Founded in Nottingham in1860 with the aim to make everyday clothes from the finest fabrics, Sunspel is having a renaissance and fast-becoming a go-to for basics for blokes in the know. Made from a quality, thick cotton, this sweater – available in five colours – is a pleasing a staple as we’ve found.
4. L’Intrepide: £63.98, leslipfrancais.fr
You have to get the basics right. And if you can make a good pair of pants, everything else should come easy. That seems to be the motto that’s powered the boys behind Le Slip from manufacturing 600 briefs in a small French town back in 2011 to providing a full range. We think these 100 per cent cotton slogan sweaters are particularly cool.
Buy now (Ships from France. Use the discount code GODSAVETHESLIP between 8am on Tuesday October 6 and midnight on Sunday October 11)
5. Rules Cracked Skull Sweat: £40, cheapmonday.com
Cheap Monday’s fashion-conscious skater aesthetic – and attention to the important little details – has seen it evolve from a Stockholm shop only open on weekends to having an international presence. This easy-to-wear sweater features the brand’s signature skull motif. Also comes in black and red.
6. Printed Scuba Sweatshirt Karter: £139, uk.calvin.com
Like the Nike crew neck, this Calvin Klein sweater - made from neoprene-like scuba material – riffs on the luxury sportswear trend that’s everywhere at the moment. Combined with a striking graphic print, it makes a more unusual, but very wearable addition to your wardrobe.
7. Gostwyck Colour Block Sweater: £120, jaeger.co.uk
Jaeger is synonymous with affordable luxury. Unlike the others, this pull-over in block colours isn't cotton. Instead, it’s made from fine merino wool that comes from Gostwyck, an Australian farm whose sheep are dubbed 'the happiest in the world'. Ewe can't argue with that.
8. TSPTR Masked Marvel Raglan: £70, store.anumberofnames.org
London-based TSPTR – an acronym for Truth, Symmetry, Pleasure, Taste, Recognition – continues its work with retro Snoopy prints. The sweatshirts are of top-notch quality too - with a comfy fleece lining. We want this one just to slouch around at home in.
9. Pop Grime: £50, quiksilver.co.uk
Keep the beach spirit alive through to spring with this crew neck from surf specialists Quiksilver’s latest collection. It features a hibiscus flower motif and plenty of daubs and swirls, making for a muted eighties feel.
10. Sweatshirt with a print: £19.99, hm.com
Just because we live in the dreary UK doesn’t mean we have to miss out on Alpine scenes, in sweater form, at least. This one is made from a comfy cotton mix, with ribbed cuffs and hem. Skis not included.
Verdict
For those with a bit more to spend, the Sunspel gets a special mention. But it’s just pipped to the top spot by the tailored cut and the quirky styling of Le Slip.