Essential Features to Look for in Gym Sweatshirts

There are days when your gym session just doesn’t feel quite right, and you can’t put your finger on why.

Did it ever cross your mind that the culprit might be your sweatshirt? It does sound trivial and exaggerated, but an ill-fitting or poorly chosen fabric for a gym top can significantly impact your workout.

Since comfort and performance take priority over style, particularly in gym wear, you must not skip on the smallest details because they can subtly affect your workout experience, often without you even realizing it.

We've highlighted those key features below, so there's no need to guess or overthink the details. These are straightforward, noticeable traits of a gym sweatshirt that are often overlooked or simply misused in the wrong context or at the wrong time.

1. Opt for a Slightly Looser Cut

Gym-goers, particularly those involved in weightlifting or functional fitness, should choose a sweatshirt one size up. Tight clothing may seem more "form-fitting," but a looser fit will allow you for a full range of motion. This ensures that your chest, shoulders, and arms aren’t restricted during activities like overhead presses, squats, or push-ups.

The extra room also prevents the top from pulling or riding up, which can interfere with form and increase the risk of injury.

2. Look for Raglan Sleeves for Shoulders

If you frequently engage in upper body strength training or dynamic stretches, try a raglan-sleeve sweatshirt. These sweatshirts have diagonal seams from the underarm to the neckline and are popular in gym wear due to the added shoulder mobility they provide.

Unlike traditional set-in sleeves, raglan sleeves offer greater flexibility in the shoulder joint, which is required for exercises such as shoulder presses, deadlifts, and any overhead movements.

3. 100% Cotton for Sweat Absorption

When hitting the gym, one common mistake is choosing synthetic blend fabrics for sweat-wicking. For moderate workouts and longer sessions, stick to 100% cotton for its natural breathability and moisture-absorbing qualities. Unless you are ok with a sweaty, sticky feeling, keep synthetic blends only for dealing with extreme heat or high-intensity cardio sessions.

Cotton’s breathability also makes it the ideal material for post-workout cooling down. After an intense session, the body's core temperature needs to normalize, and breathable fabrics like cotton allow for efficient cooling without locking in heat or moisture. Many athletes prefer wearing cotton after training to regulate temperature naturally.

4. Cotton for Reduced Chafing

Gym-goers know that one of the most uncomfortable issues during intense exercise is chafing, particularly during running, cycling, or HIIT workouts.

Polyester or nylon blends can cause irritation, so make use of 100% cotton sweatpants and shirts, as their soft, natural fibers make them one of the most comfortable attire to wear during high-impact movements.

For chafing during high-intensity workouts, you can also try cotton sweatshirts with flatlock stitching to further reduce irritation.

5. Fit for Layering

Cotton sweatshirts are surprisingly effective as layering pieces for those who work out in extreme weather—whether it’s an outdoor session in the cold or a chilly gym with air conditioning.

By wearing a heavier cotton sweatshirt as your outer layer, you can trap warmth without feeling like you're overheating. When paired with a moisture-wicking base layer, cotton serves as an insulating barrier while remaining breathable and comfortable.

6. Go for Ribbed or Cuffed Hems

One of the most annoying issues during cardio workouts—especially running or cycling—is having your sweatshirt or pants bunch up or ride up.

Ribbed or cuffed hems can prevent this from happening. They offer a snugger, more comfortable fit around your wrists and ankles. This subtle detail not only helps your sweats stay in place but also adds an element of practicality, ensuring you’re not distracted by loose fabric when your focus should be on the workout.

7. Secure and Functional Pockets

Another feature that should be your top priority in gym attire is functional, well-thought-out pockets. They come in handy when you need a safe spot for your phone, keys, gym card, or even a small energy bar.

Secure and non-bulky pockets also ensure your essentials stay put during your workout—no bouncing around, no awkward adjustments, and definitely no risk of items slipping out mid-set. This not only keeps your workout distraction-free but also saves you the hassle of leaving things behind and making extra trips to retrieve them.

So, next time when you are out shopping for the perfect gym fits, don’t forget to check for these small but significant details because underrated convenience can often make a big difference in your overall routine.