We all know that feeling: you fall in love with a sweatshirt, you buy it, and after three washes it looks like it has aged ten years. It’s lost its colour, it’s become lumpy and its original shape is just a vague memory. This is the sad reality of fast fashionThe model produces more than 100 billion garments a year, many of which end up in landfills.

 

But there is another way of consuming. One that sees clothes not as disposable, but as an investment. An good quality sweatshirt it’s not an expense, it’s an adventure companion that will last you for years, get softer over time and make you feel amazing every time you wear it.

 

The problem is, with so much marketing, it’s hard to know what’s good and what’s not. That’s why we’ve put together the ultimate guide to becoming an expert. Forget about the brand or the price; for identifying a quality sweatshirtYou just need to pay attention to these 3 crucial details.

 

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Detail #1: The Fabric – The Soul of the Sweatshirt

 

Touch does not deceive. A good fabric is the basis of everything. It is what provides structure, comfort and durability.

 

Grammage (GSM): The Weight of Quality

 

The grammage, measured in grams per square metre (GSM), indicates the density and thickness of the fabric. The heavier the grammage, the denser and generally the more durable the sweatshirt will be.

 

• < 250 GSM: Lightweight. Typical of summer or low quality sweatshirts.

 

• 280-350 GSM: Medium weight. The standard for a good sweatshirt, balancing comfort and structure.

 

• > 350 GSM: Heavy. It is the territory of the men’s thick cotton sweatshirt and premium garments. It offers exceptional warmth and drape.

 

A good grammage of a quality sweatshirt feels substantial, not flimsy.

 

The Material: Not all cotton is the same

 

The label may say “100% algodón” but there are levels.

 

• Standard cotton: It is the basic fibre.

 

• Combed cotton: During production, the shortest fibres and impurities are removed with a “peine” fine. The result is a much softer, more uniform and stronger yarn. If a brand specifies that it uses combed cottonis a sign of quality.

 

• 100% organic cotton: Grown without pesticides and chemical fertilisers, it’s better for your skin and the planet. It is the preferred choice of sustainable sweatshirt brands.

 

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Detail #2: The Construction – The Skeleton That Holds It All Together

 

An amazing fabric is useless if the garment is poorly assembled. The following points give away the quality of the tailoring.

 

The Seams: The Secret is in the Threads

 

Look at the seams, both inside and out. A sweatshirt with reinforced seams present small, dense and uniform stitches. There shall be no loose threads or areas of uneven tension. Flatlock* (flat) seams, common in high-end sportswearare another indicator of superior construction, as they prevent chafing.

 

Cuffs and Collar: The Weak Points

 

The sleeve cuffs, hem and collar are the first to show. On a quality sweatshirt, the ribbed fabric (known as *rib*) will be thick, stretchy and firm. Stretch it a little: it should return to its original shape immediately. If it feels loose or too thin, it is likely to give way with wear, ruining the silhouette. The quality of cuffs and collar is non-negotiable.

 

Detail #3: Certifications – The Conscience Behind the Pledge

 

In 2025, a quality sweatshirt should not only be good for you, but also for the planet and the people who make it. Seals and certificates are a guarantee that a brand meets certain ethical and environmental standards.

 

• GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard): It is the most important seal for the 100% organic cotton. It guarantees that the fibre is organic and that the entire production process (dyeing, spinning) is socially and environmentally responsible.

 

• Fair Trade (Comercio Justo): This certification ensures that the workers who have made the garment have been paid a fair wage and work in safe conditions.

 

• OEKO-TEX: It guarantees that the fabric is free of substances harmful to human health.

 

Looking for these labels on a garment is a commitment to a more transparent and fairer fashion industry.

 

 

Case Study: Pangaia and the Sweatshirt as a Sustainable Manifesto

 

If there is one brand that has turned the sweatshirt into an object of desire and a manifesto of sustainability, it is Pangaia. This signature, often seen on icons of music and culture, has redefined what it means to be a good quality sweatshirt.

 

Its garments are made of GOTS certified organic cotton and dyed with recycled, eco-friendly dyes. But they go further, treating their fabrics with PPRMINT™, a peppermint oil that has antibacterial properties and allows the garment to stay fresh for longer, reducing the need for frequent washing. Their construction is impeccable, with a heavy weight that gives them a perfect drape and a durability that is foolproof. Pangaia doesn’t just sell hoodies; it sells “ciencia de los materiales” The company’s commitment to quality, transparency and a visible commitment to a better future, demonstrating that quality and awareness can and should go hand in hand.

 

 

Invest in a good sweatshirt is an act of rebellion against the throwaway culture. It is a conscious decision for a more durable, functional and environmentally friendly wardrobe.

 

Next time you go shopping, remember these three pillars:

 

• Fabric: Look for good grammage (>300 GSM) and superior materials such as combed or organic cotton.

 

• Construction: Check that the seams are dense and that the cuffs and collar are firm.

 

• Conscience: Check if the brand has certifications that endorse its ethical and sustainable commitment.

 

With these tips, you will not only buy a sweatshirt, but a garment that you will love and that will accompany you for years.

 

**Now that you have the keys, what is the most important detail for you when choosing a sweatshirt? From the team of SergueiThank you for reading us, see you next time!