Our Iconic Loopback
The loopback is one of our iconic products. Simple, versatile and exceptionally comfortable it is a crucial part of the everyday wardrobe.
Where does the sweatshirt come from?
The sweatshirt is a classic garment and its popularity crosses all generations and social backgrounds. To get to its origins, we’ll have to venture back to 1920s Alabama. Benjamin Russell, an owner of a women’s and children’s underwear factory, realised the wool jerseys worn by sports players like his son, were ill-suited to activity, prone to shrinking and incredibly itchy.
Russell set about developing a comfortable alternative using women’s underwear material. The sweatshirt he created became an instant hit in the sporting world. It was adopted by football and baseball players across the country and became synonymous with American sport and comfort. Incidentally, it picked up its not-so-glamorous sounding name from factory workers who commented on its apparent state post-game.
What is ‘Loopback’?
The term ‘Loopback’ is a literal description of the particular knit that features loops on the underside of the fabric. The name comes from ‘Loopwheel’, the traditional knitting machine that was historically used to knit the fabric. Having the loops on the back of the fabric was originally designed to allow the sweatshirt to absorb sweat from your body and pass it into the garment to keep you cool while exercising. When not exercising, they trap warm air providing an insulating layer.
Our ‘Q40 Loopback’ is tightly knitted from two fine yarns, creating a fabric that is more resistant to pilling (getting bobbles) which creates a less stodgy feel than typical sweatshirt fabric.
Today, our loopback sweatshirts are made in Portugal and our partners are dedicated to high-quality manufacturing and sustainable practices. They ensure their cotton comes from trusted sources and have the certifications to prove it. As a result, the Sunspel Loopback is. well-made and exceptionally comfortable. It is a true luxury everyday essential.
