Introduction
Sweatshirts. They’re cozy, comfortable, and often our go-to choice for lounging around the house or running errands. But have you ever wondered why they’re called sweatshirts? The reason behind the name might surprise you. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the history of sweatshirts and explore the origins of their name.
The Rise of Activewear
Sweatshirts first emerged in the late 1920s as a type of athletic gear. At the time, sports like football, basketball, and track began to gain popularity, and athletes needed clothing that was comfortable, easy to move in, and could wick sweat away from the body. Sweatshirts, made from a soft, absorbent fabric, were the perfect solution.
Sweatshirts vs. Sweaters
While sweatshirts might seem similar to sweaters, there are a few key differences between the two. Sweaters, which have been around since the early 19th century, are typically made from wool or other natural fibers and are designed to provide warmth. Sweatshirts, on the other hand, are made from a lighter, synthetic material and are intended for physical activity.
The First Sweatshirt
The first sweatshirt was designed in the 1920s by a football quarterback named Benjamin Russell Jr. Russell was looking for a way to keep warm during games without having to wear a bulky, restrictive sweater. He and his father came up with a solution: a lightweight, sweat-wicking shirt that could be worn over a player’s uniform. The sweatshirt was an instant hit on the football field and quickly spread to other sports.
The Emergence of College Sweatshirts
By the 1930s, sweatshirts had made their way off the playing field and onto college campuses. Many college bookstores began selling sweatshirts with the university logo on the front, and they quickly became a popular item for students to wear around campus. In the 1940s, sweatshirts with hoods, known as hoodies, were introduced and quickly became a favorite of athletes and non-athletes alike.
The Name ‘Sweatshirt’
Now that we know the history of sweatshirts, it’s time to answer the question: why are they called sweatshirts? The answer is simple: they were originally designed to absorb and wick away sweat from the body during physical activity. The name ‘sweatshirt’ was a logical choice for a piece of clothing that was specifically designed for sweat.
Sweatshirts in Pop Culture
In the 1950s and 60s, sweatshirts began to make appearances in pop culture. Actors like James Dean and Marlon Brando were often photographed wearing sweatshirts off set, and the clothing item became associated with a laid-back, cool aesthetic. By the 1970s, sweatshirts had become a staple of casual fashion and could be found in a wide variety of styles and colors.
Sweatshirts Today
Today, sweatshirts are more popular than ever. They continue to be a staple of athletic wear and are also worn as part of everyday fashion. Sweatshirts can be found in a variety of styles, from basic pullovers to trendy oversized designs. The comfort and versatility of sweatshirts has made them a beloved clothing item that’s here to stay.
The Future of Sweatshirts
As fashion trends continue to evolve, it’s likely that sweatshirts will continue to be a popular choice for casual wear. Advances in fabric technology could lead to even more comfortable, moisture-wicking sweatshirts that are perfect for physical activity. Who knows – maybe we’ll even see sweatshirts become a staple of high-fashion runways in the future.
Conclusion
So, there you have it – the surprising history behind why sweatshirts are called sweatshirts. From their humble beginnings as athletic wear in the 1920s to their status as a beloved fashion item today, sweatshirts have come a long way. Whether you’re wearing one to the gym or out to brunch, you can now appreciate the origins of the name.