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Gray sweatshirts are as plain as clothing gets — and that’s exactly why we love them.
In their exceptional simplicity, the best gray sweatshirts come in handy for just about every activity. If you’re headed out, that plain gray sweatshirt will add some stylish warmth to any outfit; throw it on with jeans and a denim jacket, on top of gym shorts, or even under a blazer for winter date nights.
Related: How to Find the Right Denim Fit for You
Alternatively, If you’re spending a day in — maybe working from home or lounging on Sunday — the best gray sweatshirts lend extreme coziness, as well as the unique ability to camouflage stains, pet hair, sweat and anything else that could hurt your appearance on Zoom.
In short, every guy should own at least one gray sweatshirt. If you’re currently in need of a re-up, you’re in luck: athleisure and nineties streetwear trends have created a surplus of great sweatshirts. These workhorse pieces come from traditional sportswear brands and premium designers alike, meaning there’s something for every personal style.
What Are the Best Gray Sweatshirts?
Like the perfect T-shirt or the right pair of blue jeans, the best gray sweatshirts are deceptively hard to spot. You’ll want to check what a sweatshirt is made of — cotton and French terry are the most popular materials — as well as the cut. Baggy, boxy clothing is all the rage right now, but a slim-cut sweater might be better for layering under jackets. Then there’s style to consider: small details, such as logos, necklines, pockets and colors (every gray is different) can all make a difference.
Below are some of the best gray sweatshirts keeping us warm this winter. We’ve included a range of picks from classic staples to designer options, so there should be something for everyone.
1. Reigning Champ Loopback Cotton-Jersey Sweatshirt
Courtesy Mr. Porter
Launched by CYC Design Corp, Reigning Champ comes from the manufacturer behind Supreme’s beloved sweatshirts. But, instead of bold logos and trendy drops like Supreme, Reigning Champ supplies understated, high-end pieces inspired by classic athletic gear. This Loopback sweatshirt, for example, upgrades the minimal silhouette with a mid-weight loopback cotton-jersey that’s almost too cozy to take off.
2. The Real McCoy’s 10oz Loopwheel Crew Sweat
Courtesy END
The Real McCoy’s sees throwback American classics re-produced through the lens of Japanese Americanophilia. The brand’s pieces are essentially brand new thrift store gems — only with better materials and top-notch Japanese craftsmanship. With subtle details like a V-stitch neck and ribbed hems, as well as premium cotton made using a loopwheel method, this Crew Sweat exemplifies The Real McCoy’s attention to quality.
3. Carhartt WIP University Sweat
Courtesy END
Carhartt’s upscale streetwear division, Carhartt WIP, brings some collegiate prep with this University Sweat. The base is cozy, durable cotton (exactly what we want in an everyday sweatshirt) while the Carhartt logo printed across the chest adds some streetstyle flair. Wear it simply with chinos and clean sneakers for best effect.
4. Todd Snyder + Champion Midweight Pocket Sweatshirt
Courtesy Todd Snyder
This sweatshirt from Todd Snyder and Champion combines the expertise of an upscale designer and the heritage of a classic sportswear brand. The result is one of the most wearable pieces of clothing imaginable. Made using French terry fabric, the sweatshirt is buttery-soft and features extra absorbing powers on the inside. Archival details such as raglan sleeves, a chest pocket and a V-stitch neck lend some throwback style, making this sweater great for off-duty looks.
5. Stone Island Logo-Appliquéd Cotton-Jersey Sweatshirt
Courtesy Mr. Porter
Like Drake, Jason Statham and plenty of other well-dressed celebrities, we’re big fans of Stone Island. This sweatshirt exemplifies the Italian brand’s streetwear-meets-high-fashion look. It’s hyper-minimal with a crewneck, ribbed hems and a dark gray color, but a detachable Stone Island emblem on the sleeve gives the sweater some clout. Made of loopback cotton-jersey, the sweatshirt is also as cozy as it is stylish.
6. Nike Sportswear Essentials+ Men’s French Terry Crew
Courtesy Nike
This Nike crewneck sweatshirt switches things up with colorful Futura logos embroidered in unexpected locations. The base of the sweatshirt is a cozy French terry fleece that’s been brushed for added softness. With a relaxed fit, the sweatshirt also has that trendy roominess but still looks flattering on most body types.
7. RRL Crew Sweat
Courtesy END
With a premium fleece build, a light heathered color and a V-stich neck, this Crew Sweat from RRL is an elevated take on the classic sweatshirt. The sweater’s quality makes sense (RRL is known for tasteful re-creations of throwback basics) and you can rock it at home, while running errands or even in a casual office over a crisp button-up.
8. Acne Studios Oversized Logo-Appliquéd Sweatshirt
Courtesy Mr. Porter
Throwback vibes are great, but we’re also fans of more modern sweatshirts like this pullover from Acne Studios. Thanks to a slightly oversized fit and Acne Studios’ signature face emoji appliquéd on the chest, the sweatshirt gains some uniqueness without sacrificing versatility. It’s also on the heavy side, and the oversized cut is ideal for layering over tees and button-ups.
9. Vetements Printed Cotton-Blend Jersey Sweatshirt
Courtesy Mr. Porter
For something with a bit more pizazz (and some designer prestige), check out this printed sweatshirt from Vetements. The ultra-cool Swiss label adds some levity to a premium cotton sweatshirt with a printed graphic of fruit babies (that look cheekily similar to a certain big-name brand) and the text “Cutest of the Fruits.” Beneath, you’ll also find Vetements’ logo in a subtle font. Designer basics such as this are great because you can wear them while lounging at home, but they also make a statement piece when going out.
