Gildan Quarter-Zip Sweatshirt vs Hanes EcoSmart Quarter-Zip Fleece

The Gildan is the better-made quarter-zip: a heavier 80/20 cotton-rich fleece with a cotton face, a varsity collar and a locking reverse-coil zipper. The Hanes EcoSmart is a lighter 50/50 blend with a plain mock neck and standard ribbing. Owners of both describe them as basic, durable layering pieces, and the Gildan holds its shape and takes embroidery or print better. Buy the Gildan for a warmer, more structured sweatshirt; buy the Hanes if you want a simple, easy-care zip layer.

• Choose the Gildan if you want a heavier, cotton-faced fleece that takes embroidery or print well and has a sturdier collar and zipper.
• Choose the Hanes if you want a plain, easy-care 50/50 quarter-zip for light layering and don't need a cotton face or varsity collar.