Do Essentials Hoodies Run Big? A Complete Sizing Guide

Essentials, the minimalist streetwear line by Fear of God, has built a reputation for producing high-quality wardrobe staples with a luxury-meets-casual aesthetic. From oversized tees to neutral-toned joggers, every piece is designed with a specific fit in mind. But one of the most common questions shoppers ask is: Do Essentials hoodies run big?

The short answer? Yes, Essentials hoodies typically run large—and it’s not by accident. In fact, the oversized fit is one of the defining features of the brand. But whether that’s a good or bad thing for you depends on your body type, style preferences, and how you like your hoodies to fit.

Let’s take a closer look at the sizing, fit, and how to choose the right Essentials hoodie size for you.

The Intentional Oversized Fit

Essentials by Fear of God is designed with a deliberate oversized silhouette. This means that the hoodies are cut wider, longer, and with more volume in the sleeves and torso than traditional hoodies. The look is relaxed, casual, and streetwear-friendly—an aesthetic that has been central to Jerry Lorenzo’s design ethos.

Unlike brands that design for a classic, fitted look, Essentials leans into that relaxed vibe. This is important to know before you make a purchase because what some might call “running big” is actually a feature, not a flaw.

How Big Do Essentials Hoodies Really Run?

Here’s what you can expect in terms of fit:

• Length: Essentials hoodies tend to fall lower on the waist or hip, especially if you're on the shorter side.


• Width: There's noticeably more room in the chest and waist area than a typical hoodie.


• Sleeves: Slightly dropped shoulders and longer sleeves add to the oversized aesthetic.


• Hood: The hoods themselves are often large and structured, staying consistent with the dramatic, bold look.

For example, someone who typically wears a Men’s Medium in Nike or Adidas hoodies might find that a Medium Essentials hoodie fits more like a Large—or even XL—depending on body type.

Sizing Tips for Different Body Types

Here’s a general guide to help you decide whether to go true-to-size, size down, or stick with the oversized fit.

1. If You Prefer a Traditional Fit

If you're used to standard hoodie fits (like those from Champion or Uniqlo), you’ll likely want to size down one full size in Essentials. This will give you a more tailored look without completely losing the brand’s design intent.

2. If You Like Oversized Streetwear Looks

Stay true to size. Essentials is designed for a boxy, oversized fit, so ordering your regular size will give you that intended streetwear silhouette.

3. If You're Petite or Shorter in Height

Even one size down may still feel long and wide. Consider trying the kids' or women’s line if you're particularly small-framed. Essentials Kids often shares the same aesthetic with more manageable proportions.

4. If You’re Taller or Broader

Essentials' oversized fit might actually feel more "normal" if you have a larger frame. In this case, your true size—or even sizing up—could still work depending on your preference.

Customer Feedback on Fit

Online reviews and YouTube try-ons consistently mention the roomy sizing. Some common feedback includes:

• “I ordered my usual size and it’s way baggier than expected.”


• “I sized down and it still had the oversized vibe, which I liked.”


• “The hoodie is super comfy, but definitely larger than what I’m used to.”

This consensus supports the idea that Essentials hoodies do indeed run large, and for most people, some adjustment in sizing is necessary based on desired fit.

Fabric and Feel

Another factor influencing the perception of size is the material. Essentials hoodies are typically made from heavyweight cotton blends, which means they don’t cling to the body like thinner fabrics. Instead, they drape in a way that emphasizes their volume and structure.

The thickness also means that layering underneath might be unnecessary—another reason the hoodie feels roomier.

Gender-Neutral Sizing Considerations

Essentials uses unisex sizing, meaning the fit doesn’t change dramatically between men’s and women’s versions. However, this means women should especially consider sizing down if they want something closer to a standard female fit.

Final Recommendations

So, do Essentials hoodies run big? https://esentialshoodies.us/ Yes—and that’s exactly how they’re supposed to fit. The real question is whether you want to lean into that look or adjust your size for a more traditional fit.

TL;DR — Sizing Recommendations:

• Prefer traditional hoodie fit? Size down 1.


• Love oversized streetwear look? Go true to size.


• Petite or slim build? Consider sizing down 1 or more.


• Tall/broad build? True to size should work well.

Ultimately, if you’re new to the brand, trying on in-store (where possible) or watching video try-ons online can really help. But if you’re ordering online and want a safer bet, sizing down is usually a good move unless you're going for a bold, oversized style.

Conclusion

Essentials hoodies run large—but intentionally so. The oversized fit is a core part of the brand’s identity, and when styled well, it adds a laid-back, fashion-forward vibe to your wardrobe. Whether you size down or embrace the oversized silhouette depends on your style goals. Either way, you’re getting a high-quality piece that’s as comfortable as it is stylish.