Independent Trading Co. Unisex Midweight Hooded Sweatshirt | SS4500

Description

The Independent Trading Co. SS4500 has become the default hoodie for decorated apparel programs that need to balance quality with budget. At 10 oz, it sits in the midweight sweet spot — heavy enough to feel substantial and hold structure through embroidery, light enough to wear comfortably three seasons out of four. The cotton/polyester blend gives you the soft hand-feel of cotton with the durability and wash stability that polyester adds. This is the hoodie that shows up in brand launch kits, nonprofit fundraisers, and employee appreciation programs because it delivers without overcomplicating the build.

Who Orders It

Music venues ordering crew hoodies that need to survive a touring season. Nonprofit organizations building donor appreciation packages. Startups putting together first-run branded merch that employees will actually wear outside the office. Breweries and coffee roasters outfitting staff with something warmer than a tee. Creative agencies building capsule collections for clients. Schools and athletic programs needing team apparel that holds up to weekly washing. This is the workhorse hoodie for programs that care about quality but need to hit a price point.

Decoration

The SS4500 handles all major decoration methods well. Screen printing lays down clean on the cotton/poly surface — the blend prevents excessive ink absorption while still giving you solid opacity. Embroidery holds at standard stitch counts without puckering, though we recommend tear-away backing on larger chest designs. DTG prints successfully on heather and lighter colorways; darker colors perform better with screen print or vinyl. The front pouch pocket is sewn on, so plan logo placement accordingly if you’re doing a center chest design. Jersey-lined hood interior prints cleanly for inside-hood branding.

Specifications

• 10 oz midweight fleece — 80% cotton, 20% polyester
• Jersey-lined hood with matching drawcord
• Front pouch pocket with double-needle stitching
• 1×1 rib cuffs and waistband for shape retention
• Twill-taped neck seam for comfort and durability
• Relaxed unisex fit — runs true to size with room in the body
• Available in 30+ colorways including heathers

Common Questions

What decoration method works best on the SS4500?
Screen printing is the most popular choice for this hoodie — the cotton/poly blend accepts ink cleanly and cures predictably. Embroidery works well on the left chest and back yoke. DTG is viable on lighter colors; for darks, screen print or vinyl transfer will give you better results.

Is this heavy enough for winter?
The SS4500 is a true midweight at 10 oz. It’s comfortable for fall, spring, and mild winter days. If you need a hoodie for colder climates or outdoor winter events, consider stepping up to a heavyweight 12+ oz option.

How does the sizing run?
True to size with a relaxed unisex fit. The body has room without being boxy. Most programs order standard sizes; if your recipients prefer a slimmer fit, consider sizing down one.

What’s the minimum order for custom decoration?
We work with programs from 12 pieces. Most decorated apparel programs start at 24–50 pieces. Request a quote and we’ll work with your specific order size.

Ready to build your hoodie program? Get a custom quote and we’ll help you dial in the right decoration approach for your project.