Athletic Works Sweatshirt

Why I Can’t Stop Wearing (and Recommending) These Affordable Gems

Let me start by saying something that might sound a bit dramatic: finding the perfect sweatshirt changed my fitness routine. I know, I know—it sounds like an exaggeration, but hear me out. As someone who’s cycled through countless activewear brands over the years, discovering Athletic Works sweatshirts was genuinely a game-changer for my workout wardrobe and everyday comfort.

Last winter, I found myself in that familiar predicament many fitness enthusiasts face: needing quality workout gear that wouldn’t empty my bank account. After a friend showed up to our morning run in what looked like a premium hoodie (but wasn’t), I had to ask about it. When she told me it was an Athletic Works ButterCore Zip Up Hoodie that cost less than $20, I was immediately skeptical. How could something so affordable actually perform well?

That conversation led me down a rabbit hole of research, testing, and eventually becoming what my friends now teasingly call an “Athletic Works evangelist.” But the truth is, these sweatshirts offer exceptional quality at prices that make premium activewear brands seem almost ridiculous in comparison.

After living in various Athletic Works sweatshirts through countless workouts, lazy Sundays, and even some impromptu hiking trips, I’m sharing everything I’ve learned about what makes them stand out, which ones work best for different activities, and why they’ve earned a permanent place in my rotation. Whether you’re looking for your first piece of Athletic Works gear or trying to decide which style to add to your collection next, this comprehensive guide has you covered.

The Best Athletic Works Sweatshirts for Serious Workout Sessions

When it comes to choosing a sweatshirt that can handle intense training, not all options are created equal. I’ve put several Athletic Works styles through everything from HIIT sessions to outdoor runs in 40-degree weather, and a few clear winners have emerged.

The Women’s ButterCore Zip Up Hoodie stands out as my absolute favorite for high-intensity training. What makes it exceptional for workouts is its lightweight construction that somehow still provides warmth without overheating. During interval training, the moisture-wicking properties actually do what they claim—drawing sweat away rather than having it collect in that uncomfortable way that heavier cotton hoodies do.

For men, the Men’s Soft ButterCore performance tops have similar benefits with a slightly different cut that my training partner swears by. The fabric moves with you rather than restricting movement during complex exercises like kettlebell swings or burpees.

What I particularly appreciate during outdoor workouts is the thoughtful design of the hoods. They stay in place during movement without feeling constrictive, and the zip-up versions allow for quick temperature regulation when you start heating up mid-workout.

I’ve noticed that for strength training specifically, the slightly more fitted styles work better as they don’t bunch up during bench presses or get caught when doing pull-ups. For cardio-focused workouts, the slightly looser fits provide better airflow and comfort.

My personal recommendation? The ButterCore Zip Up Hoodie paired with a Dri-More tank underneath creates the perfect layering system for variable intensity workouts. You can easily adjust your temperature by zipping/unzipping or removing the sweatshirt entirely when things heat up.

Beyond the Gym: Why Athletic Works Sweatshirts Excel for Everyday Wear

Here’s something I didn’t initially expect: my Athletic Works sweatshirts have become my go-to loungewear even on days I’m not working out. The comfort factor is truly exceptional.

The ButterCore fabric technology isn’t just marketing speak—it genuinely feels remarkably soft against the skin. I’ve owned premium brand sweatshirts costing four times as much that don’t feel as comfortable for all-day wear. There’s none of that stiffness you sometimes get with new activewear; these feel broken-in and cozy from the first wear.

What makes them perfect for casual settings is their understated style. Unlike some activewear that screams “I JUST CAME FROM THE GYM,” Athletic Works pieces have a clean, minimalist aesthetic that pairs easily with jeans for coffee runs or casual Fridays at the office. The Women’s Plus ButterCore Zip Up Hoodie in particular has become my work-from-home uniform during colder months.

Another casual wear benefit? The color retention after multiple washes. I’ve had some activewear that looked faded and worn after just a few cycles in the washing machine, but my black Athletic Works hoodie looks nearly identical to when I purchased it six months ago, despite weekly washings.

For weekend errands or casual meet-ups with friends, I’ve found myself repeatedly reaching for the Athletic Works sweatshirts because they hit that perfect balance of looking put-together without feeling like I’m trying too hard. They’re the epitome of effortless comfort that still looks intentional.

Where to Find Your Perfect Athletic Works Sweatshirt

After falling in love with my first Athletic Works piece, I wanted to explore more of their line. While they’re not available everywhere, they’re surprisingly easy to find if you know where to look.

Walmart is the primary retailer for Athletic Works products, carrying their full range both in-store and online. I’ve found that the in-store selection can vary significantly by location, with larger stores typically offering more size and color options.

For the most comprehensive selection, shopping online is your best bet. You can browse the complete Athletic Works collection on their official website (see details), where they frequently offer exclusive colors and sometimes run special promotions that aren’t available elsewhere.

What I appreciate about shopping directly through their website is the detailed product descriptions and size guides. When I’m between sizes, these resources have helped me make the right choice consistently. Plus, customer reviews provide real-world insights about fit and functionality for specific items.

If you’re looking for potential deals, I’ve occasionally spotted Athletic Works sweatshirts at discount retailers like Ross or TJ Maxx, though the inventory is hit-or-miss. Online marketplaces sometimes have them as well, but I’d recommend sticking to official retailers to ensure you’re getting authentic products with proper quality control.

The Secret Behind the Comfort: Understanding Athletic Works Materials

What exactly makes these sweatshirts feel so good? After becoming curious about this myself, I did some digging into the materials and construction that set Athletic Works apart.

The signature ButterCore fabric technology is the crown jewel of the Athletic Works line, combining polyester and spandex in a proprietary blend that creates exceptional softness with just the right amount of stretch. Unlike pure cotton sweatshirts that can feel heavy when you sweat, this performance fabric maintains its lightweight feel even during intense activity.

For their moisture-wicking options, Athletic Works uses their Dri-More technology, which actively pulls moisture away from the body to the fabric’s outer surface where it can evaporate more quickly. This makes a noticeable difference during higher-intensity workouts or on warmer days when overheating is a concern.

The construction quality is impressive for the price point. Double-stitched seams prevent the fraying that often happens at stress points in lower-quality activewear. The cuffs and waistbands use ribbed material that retains its elasticity well over time—I haven’t experienced the dreaded “stretched-out cuffs” even after months of regular wear.

Something I particularly appreciate as someone sensitive to fabric textures is that Athletic Works sweatshirts don’t have that scratchy tag at the neck—they use printed labels instead, eliminating that common irritation point that many activewear brands overlook.

The zipper quality on the full-zip models deserves special mention too. They operate smoothly without catching, and the metal pulls feel substantial rather than flimsy like some budget brands. These small details add up to a product that feels much more premium than its price suggests.

Getting the Perfect Fit: Sizing Guide for Athletic Works Sweatshirts

One of the most common questions I get from friends when I recommend Athletic Works is about sizing. Based on my experience with multiple styles, here’s what you need to know.

Athletic Works sweatshirts generally run true to size, but with a slightly more generous cut than some premium athletic brands. If you’re between sizes, I’d recommend going with your smaller size for a more fitted look, or your larger size if you prefer a relaxed fit or plan to layer underneath.

The size range is impressively inclusive, spanning from XS to 4X in women’s styles (including plus sizes) and S to 5XL in men’s (including big and tall options). This broad range means most body types can find something that works well.

For the Women’s ButterCore Zip Up Hoodie specifically, the fit is slightly more tailored through the waist than some other brands, creating a more flattering silhouette without being restrictive. The length tends to hit at the upper hip for most heights, making it perfect for pairing with high-waisted leggings or jeans.

The men’s sweatshirts typically have a slightly boxier cut through the torso with enough room for movement without excess fabric. The sleeve length on men’s sizes runs slightly long, which works well for activities where you’re extending your arms but might feel a bit oversized for some.

One sizing tip I’ve found helpful: if you plan to use your sweatshirt primarily for layering over other workout clothes, stick with your true size. If you’re looking for something to wear solo or as your primary layer, consider sizing down for a more fitted look.

Budget-Friendly Excellence: Athletic Works Sweatshirt Pricing

Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of Athletic Works sweatshirts is their pricing. In a market where premium activewear can easily cost $60-100 for a basic sweatshirt, Athletic Works offers comparable quality at a fraction of the price.

Most Athletic Works sweatshirts fall between $10-20, with specific pricing varying slightly by style and size. The Women’s and Women’s Plus ButterCore Zip Up Hoodie that I recommend most frequently typically costs around $16.98, while some of the simpler pullover styles can be found for as little as $11.98.

Occasional sales and promotions can bring these prices down even further. I’ve seen 25-30% discounts during seasonal sales events, making these already affordable pieces even more accessible. During Black Friday and end-of-season clearances, you might find certain colors or styles discounted to under $10.

What makes this pricing truly impressive is that it doesn’t come with the quality compromises you might expect. The durability has proven comparable to much more expensive brands in my experience. After six months of heavy rotation, my most-worn Athletic Works sweatshirt shows minimal signs of wear, no pilling, and the color remains vibrant despite regular washing.

For budget-conscious fitness enthusiasts, this price point makes it possible to own multiple sweatshirts for different activities without breaking the bank. I’ve been able to build a complete workout wardrobe with specialized pieces for different activities at a total cost less than two premium-brand hoodies.

Style Options: From Hooded Zip-Ups to Classic Pullovers

Athletic Works offers a variety of sweatshirt styles to suit different preferences and needs. Here’s a breakdown of the main options I’ve tried and what makes each unique:

The full-zip hooded sweatshirts are my personal favorite for their versatility. The Women’s ButterCore Zip Up Hoodie features a standard hood, zippered front, and kangaroo pockets that actually fit more than just your fingertips. The hood is generously sized without being overly bulky, and the zipper extends fully to the top of the collar for maximum coverage when needed.

Pullover hoodies offer a more classic athletic look with the front kangaroo pocket that’s perfect for warming cold hands. The neckline typically includes a drawstring adjustment, allowing you to customize the fit depending on the weather conditions or your personal preference.

Crew neck sweatshirts provide a cleaner look for those who don’t need a hood or prefer a less bulky option. These work exceptionally well for layering and can even pass for casual office wear when paired with the right bottoms.

Quarter-zip options strike a nice balance between pullovers and full-zips, offering some temperature regulation ability while maintaining a sleeker profile than a hooded style. These have become my go-to for outdoor activities in milder weather when I need versatility without bulk.

Color options vary by season and style, but Athletic Works typically offers a range of neutrals (black, gray, navy) alongside a rotating selection of seasonal colors. I’ve found the black and navy options to be the most versatile for mixing and matching with other workout gear, but some of the limited seasonal colors (like the deep burgundy from last fall) have become unexpected favorites in my collection.

Weather Versatility: How Athletic Works Sweatshirts Perform in Different Conditions

One aspect that has particularly impressed me is how well these sweatshirts perform across various weather conditions. They’ve become my year-round companions for both indoor and outdoor activities.

For cold weather workouts, the insulating properties of the ButterCore fabric provide surprising warmth without the bulkiness of traditional cotton sweatshirts. During winter morning runs in 30-40 degree weather, I’ve found that a Dri-More base layer topped with the ButterCore Zip Up provides adequate warmth while still allowing necessary ventilation once I warm up.

The moisture-wicking properties really shine during temperature transitions. When moving from cold outdoor environments to heated indoor spaces (like entering a warm gym after a winter commute), the fabric helps regulate body temperature more effectively than standard cotton, which tends to trap moisture against the skin.

For milder conditions, the lightweight nature of most Athletic Works sweatshirts makes them perfect standalone pieces. They provide just enough warmth for crisp mornings or air-conditioned environments without causing overheating as your activity level increases.

I’ve even tested them in light rain during outdoor training sessions and found that while they’re not waterproof, they don’t become uncomfortably heavy when damp like cotton alternatives often do. The synthetic blend sheds light moisture and dries remarkably quickly.

The most impressive weather-related feature, in my experience, is their performance during activities with variable intensity. During interval training where your body temperature fluctuates significantly, the breathability prevents that clammy feeling that often comes with traditional sweatshirts.

Practical Features: Pockets, Moisture-Wicking, and More

Beyond the basics of comfort and style, Athletic Works sweatshirts incorporate several practical features that enhance their functionality for active use.

The pocket designs vary by style but deserve special mention. The kangaroo pockets on the hooded options are genuinely functional—deep enough to secure a smartphone, keys, or even a small wallet without fear of items falling out during movement. Some styles feature hidden interior pockets perfect for securing smaller valuables during workouts.

The moisture-wicking capability of the Dri-More technology performs impressively in real-world use. During high-intensity training sessions, it noticeably pulls sweat away from the body, keeping you feeling drier and preventing that cold, clammy sensation when you cool down. This feature is particularly valuable for outdoor winter workouts where staying dry is crucial for comfort and safety.

Thumbholes on select styles provide extended coverage for the wrists and hands during cold weather activities—a premium feature I was surprised to find at this price point. They’re thoughtfully reinforced to prevent tearing even with regular use.

The hood designs strike a good balance between coverage and visibility. They’re generous enough to provide protection from wind and light precipitation without restricting peripheral vision during active movement—a detail that runners and cyclists will particularly appreciate.

Reflective elements on some styles enhance safety during low-light conditions. These reflective accents are subtly integrated into the design rather than appearing as obvious safety features, maintaining the sweatshirt’s stylish appearance while adding practical functionality for early morning or evening workouts.

Layering Strategy: How to Incorporate Athletic Works Sweatshirts Into Your Workout Wardrobe

Mastering the art of layering can transform your workout experience, especially in variable conditions. Athletic Works sweatshirts have become central to my personal layering strategy throughout the year.

For cold weather training, I’ve found that starting with a Dri-More tank or tee as a base layer, adding their ButterCore sweatshirt as a mid-layer, and topping with a lightweight weather-resistant shell for extreme conditions creates the perfect combination of warmth, moisture management, and weather protection. The slim profile of the sweatshirts prevents that bulky, restricted feeling that often comes with winter layering.

During transitional seasons, the sweatshirt works perfectly as an outer layer that can be easily removed and tied around the waist once you warm up. The lightweight nature of the fabric means it doesn’t create unwieldy bulk when not being worn.

For gym sessions where the temperature can vary depending on your location in the facility, the zip-up styles are particularly valuable. You can easily adjust your temperature regulation by zipping or unzipping as needed without interrupting your workout to change clothes entirely.

I’ve also found that Athletic Works sweatshirts layer exceptionally well with non-athletic clothing. The clean designs and neutral color options make them perfect for casual layering over button-downs or under jackets when transitioning from workout to everyday activities.

One specific layering combination I’ve come to rely on: the Women’s ButterCore Zip Up Hoodie over their Dri-More Sleeveless Tank Dress creates a sport-casual look that works for both active pursuits and casual social settings—versatility that maximizes the value of each piece.

Care Guide: Keeping Your Athletic Works Sweatshirt Looking New

Proper care can significantly extend the life of any garment, and I’ve developed some specific recommendations for maintaining Athletic Works sweatshirts based on my experience.

The official care instructions recommend machine washing in cold water with like colors and tumbling dry on low heat. Following these guidelines has preserved the color, shape, and performance features of my Athletic Works pieces remarkably well.

I’ve found that turning the garments inside out before washing helps preserve the exterior appearance by reducing friction against other items during the wash cycle. This simple step has noticeably reduced any surface pilling on my most-worn pieces.

Avoiding fabric softeners is crucial for maintaining the moisture-wicking properties of performance fabrics. These products leave a coating on the fibers that can interfere with their ability to draw moisture away from the body. Instead, I use a sport-specific detergent for all my Athletic Works gear, which helps eliminate odors without compromising performance.

For drying, I’ve had the best results by removing the sweatshirts from the dryer while still slightly damp and allowing them to air dry the rest of the way. This prevents over-drying that can sometimes cause synthetic fabrics to feel stiff or lose their softness.

Zipper maintenance is often overlooked but important for zip-up styles. Occasionally cleaning the zipper tracks with a small brush helps prevent catching or sticking that can damage the zipper or fabric over time.

With these care practices, my oldest Athletic Works sweatshirt is approaching the one-year mark of regular wear and still looks remarkably similar to when I purchased it—impressive durability for such an affordable garment.

Inclusivity in Action: Athletic Works’ Approach to Diverse Body Types

One aspect of Athletic Works that deserves particular recognition is their commitment to inclusive sizing. In a fitness industry that often caters primarily to certain body types, their broad size range represents genuine accessibility.

The women’s sweatshirts span from XS to 4X, while men’s options go from S to 5XL. What’s more impressive is that this isn’t just about offering larger sizes—the designs are actually constructed to fit properly across this range rather than simply scaling up the same proportions, which often results in poor fit at size extremes.

I’ve spoken with friends of various body types who wear Athletic Works, and the consensus has been consistently positive regarding fit. The proportions seem thoughtfully considered for different body shapes, with details like sleeve length, shoulder width, and torso tapering adjusted appropriately across the size spectrum.

The inclusive approach extends to the visual presentation as well. Athletic Works marketing materials feature models with diverse body types using their products in actual athletic contexts—a refreshing departure from brands that only show idealized physiques or that relegate larger sizes to “loungewear” rather than performance situations.

Perhaps most importantly, there’s typically no price difference between standard and extended sizes—a practice that stands in contrast to many brands that charge premiums for larger sizes. This pricing equity reinforces that Athletic Works genuinely views all body types as equally valuable customers.

Community Feedback: What Reviewers Are Saying About Athletic Works Sweatshirts

Beyond my personal experience, I’ve carefully reviewed customer feedback to provide a more comprehensive picture of how these sweatshirts perform for a diverse range of users.

The Women’s ButterCore Zip Up Hoodie consistently receives high ratings, with most reviews highlighting the exceptional softness of the fabric and the quality-to-price ratio. Common praise includes phrases like “can’t believe how soft this is for the price” and “feels like a much more expensive brand.”

For the men’s options, the Soft ButterCore performance tops receive particular acclaim for their durability through multiple wash cycles. Many reviewers mention being surprised by how well they maintain their shape and color compared to similarly priced alternatives.

Fit consistency receives mixed feedback, with most reviewers finding them true to size but some suggesting sizing up for a more relaxed fit. This aligns with my observation that Athletic Works tends toward a slightly more fitted silhouette than some casual brands.

The moisture-wicking capability generates positive comments from reviewers who use the sweatshirts for actual athletic purposes rather than just casual wear. Several reviewers specifically mention being impressed by how dry they feel even during high-intensity activities.

Critical feedback, while minimal, most commonly references the limited color selection in some styles, particularly in extended sizes. Some reviewers also mention wishing for additional feature options like thumbholes or zippered pockets across more of the product line.

Perhaps the most telling pattern in reviews is the frequency of comments indicating surprise at the quality relative to price—a sentiment that mirrors my own initial reaction to the brand.

How Athletic Works Compares to Premium Activewear Brands

After trying numerous activewear brands across various price points, I can offer some perspective on how Athletic Works compares to more expensive alternatives.

When compared to premium brands costing 3-5 times more, Athletic Works holds its own remarkably well in several key areas. The fabric feel and comfort are genuinely comparable to much more expensive options, with the ButterCore technology providing a softness that rivals premium offerings.

Construction quality shows some differences but fewer than you might expect. While premium brands sometimes offer more sophisticated seam construction or reinforcement in high-stress areas, the basic durability of Athletic Works has proven excellent through regular use and washing.

The moisture-wicking functionality performs similarly to mid-range brands but may not quite match the advanced sweat management of technical pieces specifically designed for extreme conditions or elite performance. For everyday workouts and moderate activity, however, the difference is negligible for most users.

Style is perhaps where the greatest divergence occurs. Premium brands often offer more fashion-forward designs, trendy color options, and distinctive visual elements. Athletic Works takes a more classic, understated approach that prioritizes versatility over trend-chasing—a choice that actually enhances the longevity of the pieces.

Feature sets show some variation as well. While Athletic Works includes essential functional elements like quality zippers and useful pockets, premium brands sometimes offer additional technical features like targeted ventilation zones, advanced thermal regulation, or specialized fabric panels.

The most significant difference, of course, is price. The quality-to-price ratio of Athletic Works is exceptional, delivering 80-90% of the performance of premium brands at 20-30% of the cost.

Seasonal Deals: Finding Discounts on Athletic Works Sweatshirts

For budget-conscious shoppers looking to maximize value, knowing when and where to find the best deals on Athletic Works products can lead to significant savings.

Based on my observations over the past year, Walmart typically runs promotions on Athletic Works products during key retail periods like Black Friday, end-of-season clearances, and back-to-school sales. During these events, discounts of 20-30% are common, with some specific styles occasionally reaching 40% off.

The Athletic Works website sometimes offers exclusive online promotions that aren’t available in stores. Signing up for their email newsletter can provide advance notice of these sales and sometimes includes subscriber-only discount codes.

Clearance timing tends to follow seasonal patterns, with winter styles typically discounted in late January/early February and summer items going on sale in August/September. Shopping during these transition periods can yield the deepest discounts, though size and color selection may be more limited.

Bundle deals occasionally appear, offering discounted pricing when purchasing multiple items together. These can be particularly valuable when refreshing your workout wardrobe or when shopping for multiple family members.

For those who don’t mind slight imperfections, checking the clearance sections in physical stores can sometimes reveal significant discounts on items with minor cosmetic issues or discontinued colors. These pieces typically retain full functionality at substantially reduced prices.

The best overall strategy I’ve found is to identify your preferred styles during regular shopping, then watch for those specific items during major sale events rather than waiting until you urgently need something, which often forces purchasing at full price.

Outdoor Performance: Athletic Works Sweatshirts for Nature Enthusiasts

As someone who enjoys taking my workouts beyond the gym walls, I’ve thoroughly tested Athletic Works sweatshirts in various outdoor settings and conditions.

For hiking and trail running, the lightweight nature of the ButterCore fabric provides comfortable warmth without the bulkiness that can restrict movement on technical terrain. The moisture management becomes particularly valuable when alternating between strenuous uphill sections and cooler ridgelines or descents.

During camping trips, I’ve found the full-zip hooded styles particularly useful for variable conditions. They work well as a standalone outer layer in milder weather and integrate seamlessly into a layering system when temperatures drop. The quick-drying nature of the fabric has proven especially beneficial in damp outdoor conditions.

For outdoor yoga or fitness classes, the stretch and recovery of the fabric allows unrestricted movement through full ranges of motion without becoming misshapen. The softness against the skin prevents the chafing that can occur with some stiffer outdoor-specific garments.

Wind resistance is moderate rather than exceptional. In breezy conditions, you’ll feel some air penetration compared to dedicated windproof layers, but the trade-off is much better breathability that prevents overheating during active use.

One performance aspect that has impressed me for outdoor use is the odor resistance. Even after multiple days of wear during extended outdoor activities, Athletic Works sweatshirts develop significantly less odor than many synthetic alternatives, making them suitable for multi-day adventures where laundry access is limited.

For those who enjoy photography or other detail-oriented outdoor activities, the kangaroo pockets on many styles provide convenient access to small items like lens caps, snacks, or navigation tools without needing to remove a backpack.

Final Thoughts: Why Athletic Works Sweatshirts Deserve a Place in Your Wardrobe

After extensive personal testing and research, I’m convinced that Athletic Works sweatshirts offer exceptional value for anyone seeking quality activewear without premium pricing. Their combination of performance features, comfort, and affordability creates a compelling package that’s hard to match in today’s market.

What stands out most is their versatility. From high-intensity training sessions to casual everyday wear, these sweatshirts transition seamlessly across contexts while maintaining both comfort and appropriate style. This adaptability maximizes the practical value of each piece.

The inclusive sizing approach demonstrates a refreshing commitment to making quality activewear accessible to diverse body types—a practice that deserves recognition and support in an industry that often falls short in this area.

For those new to the brand, I’d recommend starting with the ButterCore Zip Up Hoodie as your introduction. Its combination of softness, functionality, and classic styling exemplifies what makes Athletic Works special and provides a versatile foundation piece for any active wardrobe.

Whether you’re a dedicated fitness enthusiast seeking performance without the premium price tag, or simply someone who appreciates comfortable, durable basics for everyday life, Athletic Works sweatshirts offer a solution that doesn’t force choosing between quality and affordability.

After a year of regular wear, multiple washings, and various activity tests, my Athletic Works pieces have earned their place as staples in my rotation—not as “budget alternatives” but as first-choice selections that genuinely outperform their price point in ways that continue to impress me with each wear.