French terry vs fleece: the quick answer
Choose French terry when the brief calls for a cleaner loopback interior and a less fluffy hand. Choose brushed fleece when the brief calls for a softer, lofted interior and a warmer direction. Neither name defines fibre content, exact weight or quality, so buyers should approve the physical fabric and finished garment.
Do not specify by fabric name alone. Request GSM, fibre composition, knit structure, brushing direction, shrinkage requirements and a physical swatch.
Buyer comparison: French terry and brushed fleece
| Decision | French terry | Brushed fleece |
|---|---|---|
| Interior | Visible loops, less fluffy | Raised, soft pile |
| Seasonal direction | Often used for transitional or year-round layers | Often selected for colder-season warmth |
| Structure | Can feel clean and substantial without a fuzzy interior | Brushing adds loft; drape still depends on knit and composition |
| Key risk | Loop snagging or shrinkage | Shedding, pilling or uneven brushing |
| Decoration | Smooth face can support print and embroidery | Face can also support decoration; test stability and heat response |
What to put in the hoodie fabric specification
- Target GSM and tolerance
- Full fibre composition
- Usable width and knit structure
- Brushed or unbrushed reverse
- Shrinkage test method
- Colorfastness requirement
- Pilling or shedding requirement
- Approved hand-feel swatch
How to compare hoodie samples
Compare fabrics in the intended garment, not only as loose swatches. Record garment weight, drape, opacity, warmth, stretch recovery and dimensional change after laundering. Check the hood, pocket and rib because multiple fabric layers can feel much bulkier than the body panel.
Use the clothing GSM guide to define weight, then review custom hoodie manufacturing options before sending a sourcing brief.