Reverse Weave H Athletic Department Champion: The History and Legacy
The design differences are more subtle, but the sweatshirts do vary in color, logo, and other details. The Oxford Grey Reverse Weave is a slightly lighter color than Powerblend. On the Reverse Weave, the “C” Champion logo on the chest is white and red regardless of which color you choose. The “C” chest logo on the Powerblend is tonal, meaning it’s the same color as the sweatshirt.
On both, the hood has metal eyelets for the drawstring. The Powerblend hoodie has aglets on the end, while the Reverse Weave hoodie is simply tied at the end. The differences here are largely cosmetic, with the Reverse Weave having a more retro look and the Powerblend a more streamlined, modern design.
One notable design difference is the hood; on the Powerblend, the inside of the hood is a contrasting color. The Oxford Grey Powerblend hoodie is black on the inside. Other colors of the Powerblend hoodie have gray on the inside. On the Reverse Weave, the hood is the same as the body. The contrasting color of the hood arguably detracts from the design of the Powerblend, but this is largely a personal preference.
2025-02-13
2025-01-05
Both sweatshirts survived a trip through the washer and dryer (cold wash, low heat) without signs of shrinkage, which isn’t surprising given that resisting shrinkage is why Reverse Weave was invented. The higher polyester content of the Powerblend hoodie likely helps prevent shrinkage from the cotton. Following the recommended washing instructions, you can wash both sweatshirts without much worry. However, the Powerblend hoodie did pill somewhat after coming out of the dryer. And since both are fleece, they shed a considerable amount on the first wash.
Champion invented the hooded sweatshirt, and they’re still the ruler of their domain. Whichever you choose, you can count on a stylish, comfortable hoodie that’s well-priced. But is the Reverse Weave the better hoodie, or does value put Powerblend over the top?
Though that may be a personal preference, it’s clear that you’re getting a lot more hoodie for the money by splurging on the Reverse Weave. The fabric is much heavier, and you’re a getting more considered design, including longer, thicker cuffs and reinforced ribbing on the sides of the sweatshirt.
The lighter color and traditional details of the Reverse Weave makes for a more classic, retro-inspired hoodie, so the Reverse Weave arguably ekes out the win in the style department, too.
That said, there’s still a lot to be said for the Powerblend hoodie. That price point is hard to argue with, and the lighter weight fabric, stretchy fabric and higher polyester content make it the better choice for working out or wearing in warmer weather.
It shouldn’t be too surprising that Reverse Weave takes the title, but both sweatshirts are well worth adding to the rotation.
Our editors independently select the products we recommend. We may earn a commission on items bought through our links.
We’re living in a golden age of athleisure, and even among the best athleisure brands in the world, Champion is a crowd favorite for its soft fabrics, universal good fit and super-affordable prices. We’re seeing Champion everywhere in 2022, from fancy collabs with Todd Snyder to everyday t-shirts and sweats.
If you’re shopping for Champion hoodies and sweatshirts, then you’ll notice the brand now offers two different types of fabrics in its hoodies: Reverse Weave and Powerblend.
At first glance, these fabrics might look the same, so how do you know which option is best for you? As a Champion fan, I put these two fabrics head-to-head, and I’ve got a full breakdown for you below.
$25.00 $50.00 50% off
One of the best value hoodies for sale in 2022. You can almost always find this hoodie for just $25 at retailers like Amazon.
$60.00 $65.00 8% off
While it’s more expensive, we think the premium reverse weave is worth the extra dollars.
Tegs:
Apr 17 2025
Apr 19 2025
Apr 23 2025
Apr 25 2025
Get the latest posts and fashion insights directly in your inbox.