French Terry vs Fleece for Custom Hoodies
French terry has an unbrushed looped back. Sweatshirt fleece typically has a brushed interior. That is the useful starting point, but GSM, fiber blend and finishing also shape how a hoodie feels and wears.
At a glance
Swipe the table sideways to compare both columns →
| Decision | French terry / loopback | Brushed sweatshirt fleece |
|---|---|---|
| Inside surface | Visible loops give an unbrushed backing. Specify the loop structure and hand feel. | Brushing raises fibers on the inside. Specify the desired softness and brushing level. |
| Season and use | A starting point for layering and a less fuzzy interior; heavy versions also exist. | A starting point for a cozy interior. Warmth depends on construction, weight and the complete garment. |
| Silhouette | Assess body structure, sleeve fall and hood shape in the selected loopback. | Assess loft and seam bulk, especially where hood, pocket and rib layers meet. |
| Decoration | Check the outer face, not just the loops. Print and embroidery need a trial on the chosen fabric. | Check face smoothness, blend and finishing compatibility with the proposed artwork. |
| Sample checks | Review loop snagging, dimensional change, rib recovery and finished measurements. | Review pilling, shedding, dimensional change, rib recovery and finished measurements. |
Compare like-for-like fabric submissions
Begin with the same target use, fit and approximate fabric weight. Ask for composition, GSM and finish details for both options. Comparing a light cotton loopback with a much heavier blended fleece will not isolate the effect of brushing; several variables have changed at once.
French terry and fleece describe fabric construction or finish, not cotton content. Either can be offered in different blends. A request for a cotton French terry hoodie should state the required composition separately. Confirm material availability before treating the brief as a production specification.
Choose for the wearer, then check the full hoodie
For a transitional layer, compare loopback options for the intended climate and worn feel. For a winter-oriented cozy hoodie, compare brushed-back options. These are starting points for sampling, not warmth ratings; weight, knit density, garment ease and layering all matter.
A boxy hoodie also needs a balanced hood and rib. A soft body fabric with a stiff waistband can bunch above the hem. A heavy double-layer hood can pull the neckline back. Review the complete garment on the intended fit reference instead of approving the fabric in isolation.
Turn fabric preference into sample acceptance
Record body and sleeve dimensions before and after the agreed care cycle. Discuss acceptable shrinkage, pilling and surface appearance with the supplier, including the checking method. A brushed fleece shrinkage target should be an agreed measurement requirement, not an unsupported percentage on a product page.
Test decoration on the actual face fabric and finish. Embroidery can pull a soft fabric; a large print can change the way the chest drapes. Keep an approved decorated sample together with the fabric submission so a later blend, weight or finish change triggers another review.
Send these details together
- Season, layering use and hand-feel reference
- Target GSM and fiber composition
- Loopback or brushed-back interior
- Hood layers, rib specification and artwork placement
- Care procedure and sample acceptance checks
Here, fleece means sweatshirt fleece, not every fabric sold as polar fleece. These comparisons are selection guidance, not laboratory test results or an assurance that every blend and GSM is available.
Prepare a quote briefThe RFQ form prepares a WhatsApp message for you to review. For files, email sales@hoodiemanufacturerchina.com.
Questions before sampling
Is French terry the same as loopback?
In sweatshirt sourcing, loopback commonly refers to the unbrushed loops associated with French terry. Terminology can vary, so request an inside-surface photograph and actual swatch with composition and weight.
Is French terry always cooler than fleece?
No. Brushing can create a cozy interior, but weight, density, blend and garment construction also affect warmth. Compare the selected materials for the intended climate instead of ranking them by name alone.
Can I change from fleece to French terry after sampling?
Treat it as a material change requiring review. Drape, shrinkage, rib balance and decoration can differ. Recheck the fit and finishing in the replacement fabric before approving bulk production.
What are your MOQ, sample time and bulk lead time?
MOQ is 100 pcs. Samples take 7 days. Bulk production lead time depends on order quantity.
Further reading
LogoSportswear: What is French terry?
Background on the looped knit and brushed-fleece distinction. The buyer checklist here requires approval of the actual chosen material.