American Giant, the US-based apparel company known for its high-quality basics, has relaunched its flagship product: the Classic Full Zip hoodie. First released in 2012, the hoodie gained notoriety after being hailed as “the greatest hoodie ever made” by Slate magazine, and has since sold over 1 million units.
The redesign focuses on enhanced comfort and fit, while preserving the core features that made the original so popular. The new version boasts a softer, more breathable cotton fleece construction. Key changes include a less restrictive cut around the shoulders and waist, along with more flexible elastic cuffs. These adjustments address common feedback from customers, particularly those with broader builds who found the original fit too tight.
The upgrade to longer-staple cotton fibers is central to the improved feel. Unlike cheaper hoodies made with short-staple cotton (which can feel rough and trap heat), American Giant now uses a higher-quality material similar to that found in premium shirts and bedding. This results in a noticeably softer, more breathable fabric.
The price remains at $168, despite recent supply chain challenges, including the closure of key supplier Carolina Cotton Works in May 2024. The Classic Full Zip has been a staff favorite at WIRED magazine, holding the top spot in their “Best Hoodies” guide, and the new model will be put through rigorous testing to determine if it can maintain that ranking.
This redesign isn’t about radical change; it’s about refining a proven product to address real-world user feedback. American Giant is doubling down on quality and fit without sacrificing the durability and American-made construction that built their reputation.
