Did you know the University of Michigan helped bring the hoodie into mainstream culture?

The hoodie, now a symbol of casual style, streetwear, and even rebellion, has a rich history that spans nearly a century. Though today it’s worn by everyone from athletes to artists to everyday fashion lovers, its roots are surprisingly practical.

Humble Beginnings: The 1930s

The modern hoodie can be traced back to the early 1930s in the United States. It was first designed by Champion Products (then known as Knickerbocker Knitting Company). Champion developed the hooded sweatshirt to help laborers working in freezing warehouses and outdoor job sites in New York endure harsh conditions. These early hoodies were heavy, durable, and purely functional—designed for warmth and protection rather than style.

The Rise of Collegiate Culture: University of Michigan’s Role

As Champion’s hooded sweatshirts gained popularity for their functionality, universities began adopting them for their athletic departments. One of the first major institutions to collaborate with Champion was the University of Michigan. In the mid-1930s, Champion started supplying the University’s sports teams with durable, high-quality sweatshirts — including hooded versions.

This partnership helped the hoodie make a leap from being just workwear to becoming a staple of American collegiate life. The hoodie provided athletes with a warm garment that could be pulled over the head quickly, perfect for chilly practices and team travel. Eventually, university-branded hoodies became a badge of pride for students and alumni, cementing the hoodie’s connection to campus culture.

Cultural Explosion: From Athletes to Pop Culture

By the 1970s, the hoodie had moved beyond campuses and sports fields into broader culture. It was embraced by hip-hop artists in New York City, skateboarders in California, and even featured in Hollywood films like Rocky (1976), where Sylvester Stallone’s iconic grey hoodie symbolized grit and determination.

The hoodie’s association with different cultural movements helped it evolve into a symbol of individual expression, youth rebellion, and urban style. Brands began playing with hoodie designs, offering them in different colors, cuts, and fabrics.

The Hoodie Today: A Symbol of Style and Identity

Today, the hoodie is far more than a practical garment; it’s a canvas for personal and artistic expression. Modern fashion brands, like Avalange, use hoodies as a medium for stunning graphics, powerful messages, and sleek, minimalistic designs that resonate deeply with Gen Z and Millennials.

Hoodies continue to evolve, embracing sustainability, premium materials, and innovative designs, while never straying too far from their original purpose: comfort and individuality.