I still remember the first time I unboxed a Dawn FM hoodie. The fabric had that perfect midweight heft - not too thin, not too bulky - and the screen print felt like it would last years. That experience taught me something about XO merch: the difference between a hoodie and a crewneck isn't just about the hood. In this guide, I'll compare the The Weeknd hoodie vs crewneck across warmth, style, fit, and price so you can make the right call for your collection.
Quick Verdict
If you want one piece that handles cold weather and looks sharp for shows or daily wear, grab the hoodie. It costs around $80 but delivers thicker fabric, a lined hood, and a roomier fit that layers well. The crewneck ($65) is lighter, more fitted, and works better for mild days or layering under a jacket. My pick: the hoodie for versatility, the crewneck for a sleeker silhouette.Quick Picks Summary Table
| Product | Best For | Key Feature | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dawn FM Hoodie | All-day wear in cold weather | 12 oz cotton-poly blend, lined hood | $75 - $85 |
| After Hours Crewneck | Layering or mild temps | 10 oz ringspun cotton, ribbed cuffs | $60 - $70 |
| Starboy Hoodie | Budget-friendly warmth | 80/20 cotton-poly, kangaroo pocket | $70 - $80 |
| House of Balloons Crewneck | Vintage-inspired style | Washed finish, relaxed fit | $65 - $75 |
What We Evaluated
I tested four popular XO pieces (two hoodies, two crewnecks) over a month of daily wear. Here are the criteria I used:- Durability: How well the fabric and prints held up after 10 washes (cold water, low heat).
- Comfort: Breathability, softness against skin, and freedom of movement.
- Value: Price vs. material quality and expected lifespan.
- Design: How the graphics looked in real life - print clarity, placement, and fade resistance.
- Versatility: Could it work for concerts, errands, or dressing up?
Each piece was worn for at least 5 full days, including one night out and one casual work-from-home session. I also checked the fit against standard sizing charts.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature | Hoodie (Dawn FM) | Crewneck (After Hours) |
|---|---|---|
| Fabric Weight | 12 oz | 10 oz |
| Material | 80% cotton / 20% polyester | 100% ringspun cotton |
| Lining | Hood is lined with jersey | No hood; neck ribbing |
| Fit | Relaxed, slightly oversized | True to size, more tapered |
| Price | $80 | $65 |
| Best For | Cold weather, layering | Mild temps, smart-casual |
The hoodie wins on warmth thanks to the extra layer of fabric on the hood and the heavier cotton-poly blend. That polyester adds insulation without making you sweat. The crewneck feels breathable and soft - perfect for a fall afternoon or indoor concert where you might work up some heat.
Fit is where they differ most. The hoodie has a looser cut that lets you wear a tee underneath. The crewneck sits closer to the body; I sized up for a relaxed look. Print quality is identical on both - XO uses thick plastisol that doesn't crack easily. After 10 washes, my Dawn FM hoodie showed minor fading on the edges of the logo, while the crewneck held up better (probably because it didn't rub against a jacket zipper).
One nuance: the hoodie's kangaroo pocket is surprisingly useful for carrying a phone and wallet at shows. The crewneck has no pocket, which keeps the silhouette clean but less functional.
Who Should Buy What
- If you live in a cold climate or attend outdoor shows: Choose the Dawn FM Hoodie ($80). The lined hood and thicker fabric keep you warm without a jacket. It's my top pick for the Trilogy tour in November.
- If you want a year-round layering piece: Go with the After Hours Crewneck ($65). It fits under a denim jacket or flannel. The 100% cotton breathes well in spring.
- If you're on a budget but need warmth: The Starboy Hoodie ($75) is a solid alternative. The 80/20 blend is slightly lighter than Dawn FM but still cozy. The print is simpler, so less chance of cracking.
- If you prefer a vintage look: The House of Balloons Crewneck ($70) has a washed finish that feels broken-in from day one. It's less bulky than the hoodie and pairs well with straight-leg jeans.
Final Recommendation
The Dawn FM Hoodie is my winner for most people. It costs $15 more than the crewneck, but the added warmth, hood lining, and pocket make it a more functional piece. The only reason to skip it is if you never wear hoods or run hot all the time. For everyone else, this hoodie will become your go-to for concerts, lounging, and everyday wear. Check the sizing - it runs a bit large, so if you're between sizes, go down. Grab it from the XO store before the next drop sells out.FAQ
How does the fit compare between The Weeknd hoodie and crewneck?
Hoodies have a relaxed, slightly oversized fit to accommodate layers. Crewnecks are more true-to-size and tailored through the body. If you prefer a looser look in a crewneck, size up.Which is warmer: The Weeknd hoodie or crewneck?
The hoodie is warmer due to its heavier fabric weight (12 oz vs 10 oz) and lined hood. The crewneck is better for mild temperatures or layering under a jacket.Can I machine wash these without damaging the print?
Yes - wash inside out in cold water, then tumble dry on low. Avoid bleach and fabric softeners. Both pieces can handle regular care if you follow these steps.Are The Weeknd hoodies and crewnecks true to size?
Generally yes, but hoodies run slightly large. Check the specific product's size chart as some vintage-wash items shrink slightly after the first wash. Crewnecks from the After Hours line are true to size.Which one is better for concerts?
The hoodie is better for outdoor or cold-weather concerts because of the warmth and pocket for essentials. The crewneck works for indoor venues where you'll be moving and don't need extra layers.Key Takeaways
- The hoodie offers superior warmth and a pocket, ideal for cold weather and shows.
- The crewneck is lighter, more fitted, and better for layering or mild conditions.
- Both have excellent print quality, but the crewneck's 100% cotton feels softer initially.
- Price difference is $15 - $20, with hoodies costing $75-$85 and crewnecks $60-$75.
- For most fans, the Dawn FM Hoodie is the best all-around choice.
About the author: Alex Rivera is a creator economy strategist with 10+ years of experience in print-on-demand and merch design. She has helped over 50 artists launch their first apparel lines.
