Aritzia vs American Eagle: Better Oversized Hoodie?

Introduction: Two Hoodies, Two Very Different Price Tags

You have seen them both. The Aritzia hoodie that every fashion girl owns. The American Eagle hoodie that keeps popping up on your TikTok feed.

One costs nearly $100. The other often goes on sale for under $30.

Both claim to be soft. Both claim to be cozy. Both claim to be the perfect oversized hoodie.

Naturally, these hoodies are not direct competitors. They serve completely different shoppers.

Aritzia is for the person who treats a hoodie as an investment piece. Something that looks polished enough to wear out. Something that holds its shape for years. Something that fits into a carefully styled wardrobe.

American Eagle is for the person who wants a soft, thick, comfortable hoodie at an affordable price. Something you can throw on without worrying about cost or care.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know. You will learn how the fabrics compare, how the fits differ, and which brand delivers the better oversized hoodie for your needs.

Part 1: What — The Contenders

First, let us get clear on exactly what we are comparing.

1.1 Aritzia’s Oversized Hoodie Options

Aritzia does not have just one oversized hoodie. They have two main styles.

The Perfect Hoodie

This is Aritzia’s take on a classic hoodie. The name is accurate — it has a clean slim shape that avoids bulkiness. It contours your body without being restrictive.

Price: $80–100
Fit: True to size for a classic shape
Best for: People who want a hoodie that looks polished, not slouchy

The Mega Raglan Hoodie

This is the true oversized option. It features dropped shoulders and a wider body that drapes casually. The raglan sleeves (the kind that go all the way to the collar) enhance the relaxed, streetwear-ready look.

Price: $90–110
Fit: Runs very large by design — size down for less drama
Best for: Anyone who loves a slouchy, comfortable shape

What makes Aritzia special: The brand uses high-quality cotton-blend fleece with a brushed interior for softness. According to The Cut, Aritzia’s fleece hoodies are so good that two separate styles made their “best hoodies” list — one for overall quality and one specifically for travel.

1.2 American Eagle’s Oversized Hoodie Options

Meanwhile, American Eagle’s contender is the Laidback Luxe Heavyweight Hoodie. Unlike Aritzia, AE keeps it simple — one main oversized style, available in multiple colors and graphic options.

Price: $59.95 full price, often on sale for $23.98–40
Material: 80% cotton, 20% recycled polyester
Fit: Relaxed fit, standard length

The brand describes it simply: “Super soft with a little extra structure, this heavyweight sweatshirt is perfect for staying in — and wearing out.”

What makes AE special: Customer reviews consistently praise the fabric thickness and softness. One buyer called it “the absolute best sweats I have ever owned,” noting the “material is luxurious, quality of the product is superior.” Another said they were “so surprised how thick and warm it was.”

1.3 Quick Comparison Table

Feature	Aritzia Perfect	Aritzia Mega Raglan	AE Laidback Luxe
Price (full)	$80–100	$90–110	$59.95
Sale price	Rarely on deep sale	Rarely on deep sale	$23.98–40
Fit	Clean slim shape	Purposely designed oversized, roomy	Relaxed fit
Fabric	Cotton-blend fleece	Cotton-blend fleece	80/20 cotton-poly
Best for	Polished casual, layering	Lounging, streetwear looks	Everyday wear, budget

The price gap is significant. At full price, you could buy two AE hoodies for the cost of one Aritzia. At sale price, you could buy three or four.

Part 2: Why — The Key Differences That Matter

Now let us get into the real differences. These factors will decide which hoodie you actually want to wear.

2.1 Fabric Quality: Premium vs. Practical

This is where the brands take different paths.

Aritzia uses higher-quality fleece. The fabric is mid-weight cotton-blend with a brushed interior for softness. The Cut’s review praised the material, noting that Aritzia hoodies are “made from high-quality fabrics that drape well and won’t fall apart after a year or two.”

The Mega Raglan sometimes uses a slightly heavier fabric to help its oversized structure hold up. This attention to fabric weight and natural fall is what justifies the higher price.

Aritzia’s durability advantage: Because of the better materials, these hoodies resist pilling and maintain their shape after many washes. For someone who wears a hoodie daily, this matters.

AE uses practical, comfortable fleece. The Laidback Luxe fabric is 80% cotton and 20% recycled polyester. Customer reviews consistently praise two things: thickness and softness.

One reviewer said the “heavy material” feels “so comfy.” Another called it “super soft” with “nice quality fabric.”

AE’s trade-off: Some reviewers note that the hoodie “wrinkles very easily.” And while the fabric feels thick and substantial, it may not have the same long-term durability as Aritzia’s fleece.

Verdict: Aritzia wins on fabric quality and longevity. AE wins on value — you get solid comfort for much less money.

2.2 Oversized Fit: Purposely Designed vs. Relaxed

In comparison, this is the most important difference. “Oversized” means different things to these brands.

Aritzia’s oversized fit is purposely designed. The Mega Raglan is not just a larger version of a regular hoodie. It is pattern-made to be oversized. The dropped shoulders, wider chest, and relaxed natural fall are purposeful.

A style guide explains: “The Mega Raglan Hoodie fully embraces the oversized trend, offering an effortlessly cool and comfortable silhouette. It’s purposely designed to be roomy, with dropped shoulders and a wider body that drapes casually.”

What this means for you: When you buy an Aritzia hoodie in your true size, it looks purposely oversized — not like you grabbed someone else’s hoodie.

American Eagle’s oversized fit is relaxed and roomy. The Laidback Luxe is described as having a “relaxed fit” with “standard length.” It is roomier than a slim-fit hoodie but not dramatically oversized.

Customer reviews clarify the fit. One buyer said: “Was gonna size up bc i wanted it big but its already oversized.” Another noted: “If u like it really oversized then size up.”

What this means for you: The AE hoodie in your true size will be comfortable and relaxed. For a truly oversized, slouchy look, size up one.

Verdict: Aritzia wins for a fashion-forward, purposely designed oversized shape. AE wins for a comfortable, relaxed fit without overthinking it.

2.3 Silhouette and Shape

The way these hoodies look on your body is different.

Aritzia’s Perfect Hoodie has a clean slim shape that avoids bulkiness. It defines your shape rather than draping over it.

Aritzia’s Mega Raglan has an exaggerated oversized fit with dropped shoulders and wide cuffs. The shape is intentionally slouchy and relaxed.

AE’s Laidback Luxe sits in the middle. It is not as fitted as the Perfect Hoodie. It is not as dramatically oversized as the Mega Raglan. It is simply relaxed — roomy through the body without drowning you.

Aritzia offers range. You can choose between polished or slouchy. AE offers one fit: comfortable and relaxed.

2.4 Warmth and Weight

Aritzia offers mid-weight warmth. Both hoodies use fleece that provides comparable mid-weight warmth. They are not heavyweight winter hoodies. They work best for cool days, layering, and indoor comfort.

AE offers heavyweight warmth. Multiple reviews confirm the Laidback Luxe is genuinely thick. One customer was “so surprised how thick and warm it was.” Another noted it has “heavy material.”

If you run cold or want a hoodie for actual cold weather, AE’s heavyweight fleece is a better choice. If you want a hoodie for layering or milder temperatures, Aritzia’s mid-weight fleece works well.

Furthermore, the Mega Raglan may occasionally use a slightly heavier fabric to support its structure. But generally, both Aritzia options are lighter than AE’s heavyweight offering.

2.5 Price and Value

This is where the brands separate completely.

Aritzia at full price ($80–110): You are paying for design, fabric quality, and brand prestige. The hoodie is an investment piece — one that should last for years if cared for properly.

The Cut’s review noted: “After feeling the quality and weight of the fabric myself, I can’t believe this hoodie is under $100, because I know it’ll last for years.”

AE at full price ($60): Still affordable. You get a thick, soft hoodie from a national brand. The value is solid, but not exceptional.

AE on sale ($23.98–40): This changes everything. At under $25, you are getting heavyweight fleece quality for less than a basic Gildan hoodie. One reviewer noted they are “purchasing more as gifts for friends and family.”

Value verdict: If you have the budget and want a long-term wardrobe piece, Aritzia is worth the investment. If you want a comfortable hoodie without spending much, wait for an AE sale.

2.6 Durability

Furthermore, Aritzia has a proven track record. Multiple reviews note that Aritzia hoodies resist pilling and maintain their shape after many washes. The Cut’s recommendation specifically mentioned that these hoodies “won’t fall apart after a year or two.”

AE has positive early reviews. Since the Laidback Luxe line is newer, long-term durability data is limited. However, early reviews praise the quality. One customer said the “quality of the product is superior.” Another noted the fabric is “so good.”

Potential concern: The wrinkle issue does not affect durability, but it does affect user experience.

Durability verdict: Aritzia wins based on established reputation. AE is promising but unproven long-term.

Part 3: How — Choosing the Right Hoodie for You

Overall, let us get practical. Which hoodie should you actually buy?

3.1 Quick Decision Matrix

If you prioritize…	Choose…	Why
Long-term durability	Aritzia	Proven to resist pilling and maintain shape
Fashion-forward oversized shape	Aritzia Mega Raglan	Purposely designed dropped shoulders
Polished, layerable fit	Aritzia Perfect Hoodie	Clean slim shape works under jackets
Budget under $40	AE (on sale)	Exceptional value at sale prices
Heavyweight warmth	AE	Multiple reviews confirm thick material
Softness above all	Tie	Both get strong “soft” reviews
Easy relaxed fit without hassle	AE	Relaxed fit works for most body types
Trendy streetwear look	Aritzia Mega Raglan	Dropped shoulders and exaggerated shape

3.2 Sizing Guide

Aritzia Perfect Hoodie:

Runs true to size for a clean slim shape
Size up for a more relaxed feel
Not recommended for oversized lovers — buy the Mega Raglan instead

Aritzia Mega Raglan:

Runs very large by design
Stick with true size for intended slouchy look
Size down for a less dramatic oversized fit

One reviewer at 5’7″, 145 lbs found the Mega Raglan naturally oversized and longer than the Perfect Hoodie.

AE Laidback Luxe:

Relaxed fit, true to size for intended look
Size up for dramatically oversized
Size down for a closer fit

A 5’4″, 140 lb reviewer bought a medium in the men’s version for an oversized fit. Another noted: “Was gonna size up bc i wanted it big but its already oversized.”

3.3 Styling Each Hoodie

Aritzia Perfect Hoodie:

Pair with high-waisted jeans or sleek joggers
Layer under denim jackets or wool coats
Works for polished casual looks

Aritzia Mega Raglan:

Pair with leggings and chunky sneakers
Great for athleisure outfits
Works with bike shorts for a streetwear look

AE Laidback Luxe:

Pair with slim jeans or joggers
Relaxed top balances with slimmer bottoms
Perfect for everyday lounging and errands

Part 4: Who — Matching the Hoodie to Your Lifestyle

Let us match each brand to the right person.

4.1 Buy Aritzia If:

You treat hoodies as wardrobe investments. You want pieces that last for years. Aritzia’s quality and durability justify the higher price.

You care about purposely designed oversized shapes. You want the dropped shoulders and relaxed natural fall to look purposeful, not accidental. The Mega Raglan delivers this.

You want a hoodie that looks polished enough to wear out. The Perfect Hoodie’s clean slim shape works for casual dates, travel, and even creative offices.

You have the budget. $80–110 for a hoodie is not trivial. But for the person who can afford it, Aritzia delivers.

Best for: Fashion-conscious shoppers, people who buy fewer but better items, anyone wanting a hoodie that looks as good as it feels

4.2 Buy American Eagle If:

You want great value. At sale prices under $30, the Laidback Luxe hoodie is one of the best deals in fleece.

You prioritize softness and thickness. Customer reviews consistently praise both. One buyer called it “my new emotional support hoodie.”

You want a hoodie you do not have to think about. Throw it on, wash it, wear it hard, and do not worry about cost or care.

You are on a budget. Even at full price ($60), AE is affordable. On sale, it is a steal.

Best for: Budget-conscious shoppers, people wanting multiple hoodie colors, anyone valuing thickness and softness over brand prestige

4.3 The Honest Truth

Here is the real answer. Most people do not need Aritzia.

If you just want a soft, thick, comfortable hoodie to wear around the house and running errands — the AE Laidback Luxe on sale is perfect. It costs a fraction of the price. It feels great. It keeps you warm.

But if you care about fashion, if you notice when a hoodie has dropped shoulders and intentional draping, if you want something that looks polished even when you are being casual — Aritzia is worth the money.

The Mega Raglan, in particular, offers an oversized shape that AE simply does not match. It is purposely designed, not just sized up.

The smart move: Buy one Aritzia hoodie for your “going out” casual wardrobe. Buy two AE hoodies on sale for everyday lounging. That way, you get the best of both worlds.

Part 5: FAQs — Your Quick Questions Answered

Q1: Which is softer, Aritzia or AE?

Both get strong softness reviews. Aritzia uses brushed fleece inside. AE uses 80% cotton fleece that customers call “super soft.” It is a tie.

Q2: Does Aritzia ever go on sale?

Rarely for popular styles and colors. Expect to pay near full price.

Q3: Does AE ever go on sale?

Yes — frequently. The Laidback Luxe often drops to $23.98–40. Never pay full price for AE fleece.

Q4: Which hoodie is warmer?

AE’s Laidback Luxe is heavyweight fleece. Aritzia’s hoodies are mid-weight — better for layering and mild weather.

Q5: Which fits better for petites?

Aritzia’s Mega Raglan can overwhelm petite frames. Size down or choose the Perfect Hoodie. AE’s relaxed fit is more forgiving.

Q6: Which is better for tall people?

Aritzia’s Mega Raglan is longer, making it good for taller frames. AE’s standard length may hit higher.

Q7: Which hoodie pills less?

Aritzia has a proven reputation for resisting pilling. AE’s long-term performance is less established.

Q8: Can I buy Aritzia hoodies for under $50?

Almost never. New Aritzia hoodies rarely drop below $80.

Q9: Which is better for gifts?

AE on sale is excellent for gifts — affordable enough to buy for multiple people. Aritzia is better for a special gift.

Q10: Which one should I buy first?

Start with AE on sale if you are budget-conscious. You get 90% of the comfort for 30% of the price. If you wear it constantly and want a more purposeful oversized shape, invest in Aritzia later.

Conclusion: Different Hoodies for Different Lives

Ultimately, who does the better oversized hoodie depends entirely on what you value.

For fashion and purposeful design: Aritzia wins. The Mega Raglan’s dropped shoulders and relaxed natural fall are purposeful, not accidental. The Perfect Hoodie offers a polished shape that works beyond the couch. And the quality justifies the price if you plan to wear it for years.

For value and comfort: American Eagle wins. At sale prices under $30, the Laidback Luxe hoodie delivers heavyweight softness that punches above its price. It is not trying to be fashion-forward. It is just trying to be comfortable.

Three things to remember:

Aritzia is an investment — in design, quality, and longevity
AE is a steal — especially on sale, unbeatable value
Oversized means different things — Aritzia’s is purposeful; AE’s is relaxed

If you have the budget and care about fashion, buy Aritzia. If you want a great hoodie without spending much, wait for an AE sale.

Or do what most smart shoppers do: buy one of each. Aritzia for when you want to look polished. AE for when you just want to be cozy.

Both are good. They are just good at different things.