Sweatshirts and Hoodies

MTB Hoodie & Sweatshirt Guide

Pullover vs Zip

Pullover hoodies are warmer and simpler — no zip to snag, one continuous layer of fleece. Zip hoodies are more versatile for temperature regulation and easier to get on/off over helmet hair. Fox Racing makes both in their Head and Pinnacle lines. Troy Lee Designs tend to favour pullovers with bold chest graphics. Fasthouse does retro-styled zip hoodies with a moto vibe. For cold trail centres, a heavyweight pullover wins. For driving to and from rides, zip is more practical.

Weight and Materials

MTB hoodies typically use 280-350gsm cotton-poly fleece. Pure cotton feels softer but takes ages to dry when damp. Poly blends (60/40 or 80/20 cotton-poly) dry faster and hold shape better through washes. Some premium options from Mons Royale use merino blends for temperature regulation and odour resistance — worth it if you're living in the same hoodie all weekend at bike festivals. Brushed fleece interiors are warmer than French terry for winter.

Sizing

MTB lifestyle brands size differently from high-street. Fox runs fairly true but slightly long in the torso. Troy Lee Designs runs large — most riders drop a size. Fasthouse fits relaxed and boxy by design. 100% runs true to US sizing which tends slightly larger than UK. If buying used without trying on, check the brand's size chart against your measurements rather than going by the label alone.

Buying Used

Hoodies are excellent used buys — the thick construction means they last years. Check the cuffs and waistband elastic (first things to stretch out), look for pilling on the outer fabric, and examine screen-printed graphics for cracking. Embroidered logos are essentially indestructible. Fleece lining should still feel soft, not matted flat from overuse.