Is the Essential Hoodie Worth It? Honest Review.

In recent years, the Essentials Hoodie by Fear of God has become a staple in streetwear fashion. Known for its minimalist design, muted color palette, and comfortable fit, the hoodie has found its way into wardrobes across the globe. But with a price tag that’s significantly higher than a standard hoodie, many potential buyers are left wondering: is the Essentials Hoodie really worth it?

In this honest review, we’ll break down the quality, design, comfort, sizing, brand reputation, and essential hoodie value for money of the Essentials Hoodie to help you decide whether it lives up to the hype.

The Hype Around Essentials

Essentials is a sub-label under the Fear of God brand, founded by Jerry Lorenzo. While Fear of God caters to the high-end fashion market with luxury pricing, Essentials is intended to offer more affordable and accessible basics — without sacrificing too much on quality or style.

From influencers to athletes, many public figures have been spotted wearing the Essentials line, especially the hoodie. The brand’s popularity is often driven by limited drops and collaborations, making some pieces feel exclusive even if they’re mass-produced. But hype doesn’t always equal quality — so let’s dig deeper.

Quality and Materials

At first touch, the Essentials Hoodie feels noticeably thicker and sturdier than a typical off-the-rack hoodie. Made from a cotton and polyester blend, the material is heavyweight and dense, giving it a premium feel. The brushed fleece inside adds a layer of softness and warmth that many users praise.

The stitching is clean, with reinforced seams and a double-lined hood, which suggests durability. It’s built to last — this isn’t the kind of hoodie that will fall apart after a few washes. However, some users have noted minor issues like pilling after extensive wear or slight shrinkage if improperly washed, so proper care (cold wash, air dry) is essential to preserve its condition.

Design and Aesthetics

Essentials is known for its understated, minimalist aesthetic. The hoodie typically features a tonal “ESSENTIALS” logo either on the chest or back, with some versions including a rubber patch on the hood. It comes in a variety of muted, neutral tones — think sand, taupe, black, gray, and cream — that work well with almost any outfit.

The branding is subtle but noticeable, striking a balance between streetwear flex and minimalism. This makes it versatile for different settings, from casual outings to lounging at home. If you’re a fan of simple, clean-cut fashion, the design of the Essentials Hoodie will likely appeal to you.

Comfort and Fit

One of the most commonly praised features of the Essentials Hoodie is its comfort. The interior fleece lining makes it incredibly cozy, perfect for cooler weather. It’s also warm enough to wear on its own during transitional seasons like fall or spring.

In terms of fit, the hoodie runs oversized — intentionally. The relaxed silhouette features dropped shoulders, wide sleeves, and a boxy cut. This is a deliberate design choice that aligns with modern streetwear trends. If you prefer a more fitted look, consider sizing down. On the other hand, if you’re into the current oversized aesthetic, go true to size.

Some wearers may find the length a bit short compared to its width, especially in older versions, but newer releases have made improvements in this area.

Sizing Tips

Because of the oversized nature of the Essentials Hoodie, it’s important to choose your size based on the look you want. A small might fit more like a medium or large in standard sizing. Checking user reviews or trying it on in-store (if possible) is helpful before purchasing.

Additionally, there can be slight variations in fit depending on the season or drop — some releases are a bit more oversized than others — which adds a layer of unpredictability to online shopping.

Price and Value

The Essentials Hoodie typically retails for around $90–$120 USD, depending on the collection and retailer. On the resale market, the price can go even higher, especially for limited colorways or hard-to-find sizes.

Compared to fast fashion hoodies that cost $30–$50, the price is certainly on the higher end. However, it’s still significantly more affordable than luxury hoodies that retail for $300+.

If you value durability, comfort, and brand prestige, the Essentials Hoodie offers good value. It’s not the cheapest hoodie out there, but it bridges the gap between premium and accessible. It’s a worthwhile investment for those who want to elevate their casual wardrobe without going full luxury.

Brand and Cultural Appeal

Fear of God Essentials has carved a unique space in the fashion world by combining luxury streetwear aesthetics with accessible price points. The brand’s association with celebrities, athletes, and fashion influencers adds a layer of cultural cachet that many buyers find appealing.

Wearing an Essentials Hoodie isn’t just about comfort — it’s also about being part of a community and trend that values clean design and elevated basics.

Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?

So, is the Essentials Hoodie worth it?

If you’re looking for a high-quality, comfortable hoodie with a fashionable oversized fit and understated branding,  the answer is yes. It lives up to the expectations in terms of material, design, and style.

However, if you're on a tight budget or prefer a more fitted look, you might be better off essential hoodie exploring other options. While it’s not a must-have for everyone, it is a standout piece for those invested in streetwear and elevated casualwear.

Final Score: 8.5/10
Stylish, comfortable, and well-made — just be sure you're on board with the oversized fit and minimalist branding.