The Ultimate Guide for Aussie Hoodie Buyers Debating Between Store-Bought and Custom Gear
In the age of fast fashion and impulse buys, hoodies have become a wardrobe essential for Aussies of all ages. From winter warmers to statement pieces, a hoodie is more than just a comfy top — it’s part of your identity. But when it comes to choosing between a cheap retail hoodie and a premium custom design, quality matters more than ever.
At TheHoodie.com.au, we get it. You're weighing up whether to grab a bargain at Cotton On or Big W — or invest in a custom-printed hoodie made just for you. Here’s why we believe going custom, especially with premium AS Colour blanks, offers unmatched value, comfort, and durability.
1. Let’s Talk Fabric: Not All Hoodies Are Created Equal
Most off-the-rack hoodies sold in Australian chain stores are made from a low-to-midweight cotton-poly blend, often around 280–320gsm (grams per square metre). They look decent at first glance — but after a few washes? Shrinkage, pilling, and saggy cuffs are all too common.
In contrast, TheHoodie prints exclusively on AS Colour hoodies, including the heavyweight Stencil (Unisex) and Relax (Women’s) ranges. These garments feature:
- 350gsm Anti-Pill CVC Fleece: Heavier, warmer, and built to last
- Preshrunk Fabric: No post-wash surprises
- High-stitch quality: Neat seams, smooth finish
- Ethically sourced cotton: Wear it with pride
Put simply, you feel the difference the moment you put one on.
2. Retail Hoodies Might Be Cheap — But At What Cost?
Let’s look at the numbers:
-
Retail Hoodie (e.g. Cotton On, Kmart, Fast Fashion Brands):
$35–$60 AUD
280–320gsm, often thinner, mass-produced overseas, prone to fade or stretch.
No personalisation. Every second person has the same one. -
Custom Hoodie from TheHoodie.com.au:
$69 AUD (often on sale from $80 RRP)
350gsm AS Colour blank, printed right here in Australia, with your own design, text, or logo.
Yours. One of one.
Sure, the upfront price might be a little higher. But when your hoodie lasts multiple seasons, doesn’t fade, and actually fits the way you want — the cost per wear ends up cheaper.
3. Shrinkage? Not Here, Mate.
We hear this all the time:
"I bought a hoodie, it looked great... then after one wash, it was a size too small."
Most retail hoodies aren’t preshrunk. That means even washing on cold can lead to noticeable shrinkage — especially if the blend is low-grade or contains a lot of polyester.
AS Colour blanks used by TheHoodie are prewashed and preshrunk, meaning they maintain their shape after washing (provided you follow the care instructions). That means no saggy arms, no shrunken waistbands, and no frustration.
4. Custom Means You’re in Control
Beyond quality, customisation is where retail hoodies simply can’t compete.
At TheHoodie.com.au, our Customiser Tool lets you:
✅ Upload your own artwork or logo
✅ Add custom text in 20+ fonts
✅ Choose from 18 ink colours
✅ Select your preferred style (Unisex or Women’s Relax fit)
✅ Preview it live before you buy
Whether you're designing a hoodie for your band, sports team, club, work crew, school leavers, or just want a funny one-off — you're the designer. No minimums. No mucking about.
5. Built for Aussie Weather, Worn by Real Aussies
AS Colour hoodies are made for the Aussie climate. That means warmth when you need it (hello, chilly Melbourne mornings), but breathable enough to not overheat indoors.
And because TheHoodie prints locally in Australia, you’ll get your order faster than overseas-based print-on-demand brands — no delays, no customs issues, and local customer support if you need help.
6. A Better Fit for Men, Women and Everyone in Between
Another overlooked difference? Fit.
Retail hoodies are often “one fit fits none” — boxy cuts, weird lengths, or sleeves that feel off. With TheHoodie, you choose the right fit:
- Stencil Hoodie (Unisex): Boxy but flattering, ideal for both men and women
- Relax Hoodie (Women’s): Slightly tapered, longer length, relaxed fit with shorter drawstrings
- Kids & Youth Sizes also available for family orders or school leavers
And if you’re unsure? There’s a Fit Guide on every product page and our customer support team to help.
7. No Minimum Orders — But Bulk Discounts Available
Unlike many printers, TheHoodie doesn’t require a minimum order. Want just one custom hoodie? Easy. Need 500 for your business, club, or school? OK.
We offer tiered bulk discounts, custom nicknames for group orders, and even rush printing if you’ve left it a bit late (no judgement here).
Big names like Qantas, Redkite, and sports teams across Australia already trust us — so you’re in good hands.
8. Custom = Conscious
Mass-produced retail hoodies often come with hidden costs: unethical labour, long-distance shipping, and poor environmental standards.
TheHoodie’s partnership with AS Colour means:
- Ethical production standards
- Local printing = lower carbon footprint
- Supporting Aussie businesses
You're not just buying a hoodie. You're backing ethical supply chains, fair work, and a company that believes in doing things properly.
Final Verdict: Custom Wins. Every Time.
| Feature | Cheap Retail Hoodie | Custom Hoodie from TheHoodie |
|---|---|---|
| Fabric Weight | 280–320gsm | 350gsm heavyweight fleece |
| Shrinkage Resistance | ❌ | ✅ Preshrunk |
| Personalisation | ❌ | ✅ Full custom design |
| Ethical Manufacturing | ❓ Often unknown | ✅ AS Colour, ethically made |
| Local Support | ❌ Offshore or slow response | ✅ Australian-based |
| Cost Per Wear | 👎 | 👍 Longer-lasting = better ROI |
So, should you go retail or custom?
If you care about quality, fit, longevity, and style — custom wins every time.
Visit TheHoodie.com.au and design your own hoodie today. No shrinkage. No drama. Just hoodies. Nothing else.
Need help with your design? Reach out to our team or try the Hoodie Customiser — it's the fastest DIY hoodie builder in Australia.
