Japanese streetwear hoodies

The hoodie is the easiest way into Japanese streetwear. Done well, it is heavy, simple and cut with intent. Done badly, it is a thin sweatshirt with a loud print. These are the things to check.

Fabric weight and feel

A good hoodie feels dense. Look for the fabric weight in the product details; heavier cotton fleece or French terry holds its shape and drapes better than a thin blend. Japanese knitters are known for loopwheel machines, which make a softer, less twisted fabric, and brands that use it usually say so.

Fit and length

Streetwear hoodies are often boxy, with dropped shoulders and a slightly short body. That is intended. Check the chest width and length in centimetres rather than trusting the letter size, and compare them with a hoodie you already own. Our sizing guide explains how.

Prints, embroidery and graphics

• Embroidery lasts longer than heavy rubber prints.
• Small chest graphics are easier to wear than large all-over prints.
• Kanji and katakana look best when the meaning is real: check what the text says.

Styling

Pair a boxy hoodie with straight or wide trousers and simple sneakers. Layer a coach jacket or a vest over it, and keep the palette to black, grey, navy or one accent colour.

Care

Wash inside out at a low temperature, avoid the dryer and let printed areas air-dry. This keeps both the fabric and the graphics in shape.