Sweatshirt vs. Pullover — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on April 22, 2024
A sweatshirt typically features a loose, warm garment made from cotton or synthetic materials, often with a fleece lining, whereas a pullover refers generally to any garment that can be pulled over the head and lacks buttons or zippers.
Difference Between Sweatshirt and Pullover
Table of Contents
ADVERTISEMENT
Key Differences
A sweatshirt is usually made from heavy cotton, polyester, or a blend, designed for exercise or casual wear. It often includes features like ribbed cuffs and a ribbed waistband to retain warmth. Whereas a pullover can be made from a variety of materials including wool, cotton, or synthetic blends, tailored for both casual and more formal styles.
The classic sweatshirt often comes with a soft, brushed interior to enhance comfort and heat retention, perfect for cooler conditions. On the other hand, pullovers vary widely in terms of lining and are sometimes unlined, depending on the intended use and style.
Sweatshirts are generally designed to be durable and easy to care for, often machine washable, making them ideal for daily wear. Pullovers, depending on the material, may require more careful handling, including hand washing or dry cleaning.
Many sweatshirts feature a crew neckline without any closures, making them easy to wear. Pullovers, however, can come in a variety of necklines, including V-neck, turtleneck, or crew neck, offering more stylistic choices.
Sweatshirts can also include hooded versions known as hoodies, adding extra warmth and head protection. Pullovers, while they can also be hooded, more commonly come without a hood, focusing more on the simplicity of slipping them on.
ADVERTISEMENT
Comparison Chart
Material
Cotton, polyester, or blends
Wool, cotton, synthetic blends
Lining
Often fleece-lined
May be lined or unlined
Care
Generally machine washable
May require hand wash or dry clean
Neckline
Usually crew neck
Varies (crew, V-neck, turtleneck)
Additional Features
Often includes ribbed cuffs and waist
Stylistically diverse, may have patterns
Compare with Definitions
Sweatshirt
Can be plain or have printed designs and logos.
The team's sweatshirts were emblazoned with their mascot.
Pullover
A garment worn by pulling it over the head, typically without front openings.
She chose a wool pullover for the chilly evening.
Sweatshirt
Often has a relaxed fit to allow for easy movement.
The oversized sweatshirt was perfect for lounging at home.
Pullover
Can be made from a variety of materials and used in different settings.
His cashmere pullover was perfect for the office party.
Sweatshirt
A casual garment typically made of heavy cotton or polyester with a soft interior.
He wore a gray sweatshirt to the gym.
Pullover
Available in different styles including turtleneck, V-neck, or crew neck.
The turtleneck pullover kept him warm without a scarf.
Sweatshirt
Designed for comfort and warmth, often used in athletic settings.
She pulled on her sweatshirt after the evening run.
Pullover
May feature intricate patterns or be simply solid colored.
Her patterned pullover was a hit at the holiday gathering.
Sweatshirt
Frequently features a crew neckline and long sleeves.
His favorite sweatshirt was slightly faded but still cozy.
Pullover
Often more formal than a sweatshirt, suitable for various occasions.
He wore a light pullover over his shirt for extra warmth at the event.
Sweatshirt
A usually long-sleeved, collarless pullover made traditionally of heavy cotton jersey that is napped on the interior, sometimes having a hood.
Pullover
A garment, such as a sweater, designed to be put on or taken off over the head. Also called slipover.
Sweatshirt
A zippered jacket of a similar material and design.
Pullover
A sweater that must be put on by pulling it over the head; a sweater without buttons or a zipper in front
Sweatshirt
A loose shirt, usually made of a knit fleece, for athletic wear and now often used as casual apparel.
Pullover
(weightlifting) An exercise performed lying on the back in which the arms are extended behind the head and exertion lifts the weight above the head.
Sweatshirt
A shirt worn against the skin, usually under other clothing, to absorb sweat.
Pullover
An exercise in which the gymnast pulls up from a hang lifting the legs up and over the bar thus rolling into a support position.
Sweatshirt
Cotton knit pullover with long sleeves worn during athletic activity
Pullover
An instance of a vehicle being pulled over.
Pullover
A sweater that is put on by pulling it over the head
Common Curiosities
How should I wash my sweatshirt?
Most sweatshirts are machine washable, but it’s best to check the care label for specific instructions.
Are pullovers suitable for formal events?
Some pullovers, especially those made from fine materials like cashmere or silk, are suitable for formal events.
Can sweatshirts have hoods?
Yes, sweatshirts can have hoods; these are commonly referred to as hoodies.
What is a sweatshirt?
A sweatshirt is a casual, comfortable garment made from heavy, soft materials like cotton or polyester, typically worn for warmth and ease.
What neckline styles are available for pullovers?
Pullovers can come with different neckline styles such as V-neck, crew neck, or turtleneck.
Can pullovers be part of a business casual outfit?
Yes, certain styles of pullovers can be appropriate for business casual attire, especially when paired with collared shirts.
Can I wear a sweatshirt for running?
Yes, sweatshirts are ideal for running or other outdoor activities during cooler weather due to their warmth and comfort.
Can I find designer pullovers?
Yes, many high-fashion brands offer designer pullovers in various luxurious materials and styles.
What is a pullover?
A pullover refers to any garment that is worn by pulling it over the head, which can range from casual to formal, depending on the material and design.
What is the price range for a high-quality pullover?
The price of high-quality pullovers can vary widely, typically starting from around $50 to several hundred dollars, depending on the brand and material.
Are all pullovers made of wool?
No, pullovers can be made from a variety of materials including cotton, synthetic blends, and wool.
Do sweatshirts come in zippered styles?
Sweatshirts traditionally do not have zippers; however, similar styles like zip-up hoodies are available.
What sizes do sweatshirts come in?
Sweatshirts are available in a wide range of sizes, typically from XS to XXL and beyond in some brands.
Are pullovers easy to care for?
The care required for pullovers depends on the material; woolen ones might need hand washing, whereas cotton ones could be machine washed.
Is there a difference in warmth between a sweatshirt and a pullover?
Generally, sweatshirts are warmer due to their materials and construction, such as fleece lining.
Share Your Discovery
Previous Comparison
Reverse vs. Inverse
Next Comparison
Farewell vs. GoodbyeAuthor Spotlight
Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
