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We all want the perfect hoodie—but should you click “add to cart” or head to the store? In 2025, that question isn’t just about preference—it’s about strategy.
Online shopping wins on convenience and selection, while in-store shopping still dominates when it comes to fit and fabric feel1. The best choice depends on who you are—and what matters most to you.
I’ve watched brands and buyers shift between online and offline strategies. Let’s break down how both channels stack up today—and what that means for fashion brands.
Why This Question Matters?
The hoodie is a daily essential. And in today’s omnichannel world, understanding how people buy them is key to making and selling better products.
Consumer behavior changed post-COVID. Direct-to-consumer (DTC) brands have exploded—but brick-and-mortar is finding new purpose, too.
Retail Display Warmth
Changing Consumer Habits Post-COVID
The pandemic pushed millions to shop online out of necessity. Many stuck with it. But as stores reopened, tactile experiences became desirable again.
People are blending both: researching online, testing in-store, or ordering online after seeing an item in real life.
The Rise of DTC Brands vs Traditional Retail
DTC hoodie brands—like Fear of God Essentials, Pangaia, and Everlane—win online with storytelling and streamlined UX.
Traditional retail still offers what screens can’t: touch, trial, and instant feedback. The challenge? Balancing both.
Buying Hoodies Online – Pros & Cons?
Online shopping keeps growing, especially with younger buyers. But it’s not perfect.
Online shopping for hoodies offers unmatched variety and ease, but challenges remain with sizing, returns, and fabric trust.
Pros: Convenience, Variety, Price Comparison
- Shop 24/7, no lines
- Access global brands
- Use discount codes and compare prices
- Filter by color, fabric, fit instantly
It’s hoodie heaven—from your couch.
Cons: Uncertain Fit, Fabric Feel, Return Hassles
You can’t feel the fabric or see the drape. If the sizing chart is off, returns are likely—and slow shipping can hurt experience.
Plus, colors may look different on screen.
Tip: Look for Virtual Try-On or Detailed Sizing Charts
Brands offering:
- 3D try-ons
- Model size references
- Garment-to-body measurements
… help reduce returns and build trust.
Buying Hoodies In-Store – Pros & Cons?
There’s still nothing like trying on a hoodie in person. Especially for picky buyers or gift-givers.
In-store hoodie shopping allows for instant try-on and better fit assessment, but it can be limited in choice and less price-competitive.
Pros: Try Before You Buy, Instant Gratification, Better for Fit
- Feel the texture
- Test fit and movement
- Buy it, wear it same day
- Ask staff for style or sizing advice
Perfect for gift shopping or body-sensitive buyers.
Cons: Limited Stock, Travel Time, Higher Prices (Sometimes)
Stores may only stock key colors or best-selling sizes. And if you’re far from a flagship store, it’s not convenient.
Retail pricing also tends to be higher—especially at curated boutiques.
What Type of Buyer Prefers Each Channel?
No single answer fits all. Your ideal channel depends on what kind of hoodie shopper you are.
Online buyers are younger and brand-loyal. In-store shoppers tend to value tactile experiences and sizing accuracy.
Online Shoppers: Deal Seekers, Brand Loyalists, Younger Consumers
They know what they want. They follow drops. They read reviews.
They’re more willing to take a risk on fit—especially if returns are free.
In-Store Shoppers: Texture-Sensitive, Older Buyers, Gift Buyers
They want to touch the hoodie. Feel the fleece. Try three sizes.
For them, shopping is part of the product experience—not just a transaction.
What This Means for Hoodie Brands & Sourcing Teams?
You can’t afford to choose just one channel anymore. Brands need to think hybrid.
Success in 2025 means offering both online and offline options, with consistent fit and customer feedback loops feeding back into product design.
Offer Both Channels If Possible
Set up:
- DTC e-commerce for reach
- Retail or pop-up presence for tactile interaction
They don’t compete—they complement.
Standardize Fit & Sizing for Online Success
Customers return hoodies because of bad fit, not bad style.
Create detailed size charts, test across size ranges, and reduce tolerance issues at the factory level.
Use Store Feedback to Improve Fabric Choices & Product Design
In-store teams hear real-time feedback. Collect it.
Are customers saying, “too thick,” “sleeves too long,” or “fabric too stiff”? That’s gold for product development.
How Our OEM Factory Supports Both Models?
We work with brands selling online, in stores, or both. And we help make sure each experience feels seamless to the buyer.
At Modaknits, we support hoodie brands with precise sizing, fabric consistency, and DTC-friendly packaging—all aligned with today’s buying behavior.
Consistent Sizing Standards for Online Buyers
We follow strict grading rules across all sizes, minimizing online return risk. We even offer cross-size fit testing before bulk.
This gives online shoppers more trust in your charts.
High-Quality Fabrication That Holds Up In-Person
In stores, feel matters. Our brushed fleece, French terry, and modal blends make an instant impression.
Customers won’t just buy it—they’ll come back for another.
Custom Packaging & Labeling for DTC or Retail
We tailor packaging:
- DTC? Recyclable poly mailers, branded inserts, folding styles
- Retail? Swing tags, hangers, barcode stickers, shelf-ready packs
All matched to your brand vibe.
Final Thoughts?
The hoodie market in 2025 is split-screen. One side scrolls. The other tries it on.
Online offers reach and ease. In-store delivers experience and trust. Great brands—backed by great factories—win by mastering both.
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Understanding the significance of fabric feel can enhance your shopping experience, ensuring you choose the right hoodie for comfort and style. ↩
