Stio Sweetwater Fleece Hoody

Review by Kate Agathon

This season, Stio updated its signature Sweetwater Fleece Hoody and made it more streamlined.

The most notable changes are the shorter length (falls at hip), the absence of the kangaroo front pockets, and the removal of the zipper on its distinct crossover neckline.

A zipper pocket on the shoulder has replaced the familiar front pockets and keeps small items (i.e. chapstick or car keys) stowed securely. Admittedly, it has been somewhat difficult to get used to as my hands automatically go to where the kangaroo pocket used to be (darn it, muscle memory).

Constructed from 100 percent recycled fleece, the Stio Sweetwater Fleece Hoody has retained its signature softness and warmth.

Elevated Look and Fit

The crossover neckline is what makes the Stio Sweetwater Fleece Hoody so eye catching.

There are other outdoor brands that have sweater fleece tops, but none with a stylish neckline that just elevates the overall look.

While I prefer a longer tunic-like length for practical reasons (coverage) and style (elongates my torso), the Stio Sweetwater Fleece Hoody looks equally good paired with leggings as it did with casual hiking pants.

The sweater fleece hoody is designed for mountain living.

It’s perfect for wearing around town: whether it’s doing errands, having coffee at the local coffee shop, or grabbing a pint at the local brewery.

The Stio Sweetwater Hoody has also retained its trim fit.

Even though the updated version has more give in the body and is no longer as snug around the chest area, I recommend ordering a size up so you can comfortably wear a shirt underneath and avoid restrictive movement.

Details

• Flatlock seams maximize comfort
• Fixed, relaxed fit hood
• YKK® reverse coil zippers
• Elastic binding at cuff
• Hanger loop on center back neck
• Zippered sleeve pocket
• Embroidered Stio® and Pinecone logos
• reLofton™️ soft fleece

Preferred Materials

In 2024, Stio completely removed PFAs from all of their new products. In keeping with Stio’s eco-conscious commitment, the refreshed Stio Sweetwater Fleece Hoody is constructed from 100 percent recycled polyester.

Final Thoughts

The Stio Sweetwater Fleece Hoody is versatile: designed to look like a sweater, it offers the technical performance you’d expect from fleece.

The elevated look allows me to look stylish and stay warm on days I don’t want to have an overtly technical look.

The Stio Sweetwater Fleece Hoody is the perfect shoulder season hoody; especially in the mountains. Even on windy days, the hoody offers just enough warmth to keep me comfortable.

I liked the Quiet Gray Heather color for its timeless neutral color (I’m not a fan of trendy seasonal colors) that can be mixed with anything.

The Stio Sweetwater Fleece Hoody is available in seven sizes (XXS to XXL) and five colors: Cedar Blush Heather, Mountain Goat Heather, Terrain Heather, Quiet Gray Heather, and Mountain Shadow Heather.

Kate Agathon

Dr. Of Stoke

Freelance writer, bicyclist, outdoor recreation enthusiast, and mom to her furbabies, Sansa and Benjen.

 

A Colorado native, Kate considers the outdoors her mother ship. She brings her passion for bicycling, the environment to her writing.

Her primary outdoor recreation activities are mountain biking, road biking, nordic skiing, alpine skiing, hiking, snowshoeing, and peak bagging Colorado’s 14ers. She and her husband, Paul, live in Summit County with their dogs, Benjen and Sansa.

Kate earned a BA in History from Colorado State University and later an MSEd and Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from Purdue University. In addition to her education, Kate’s background serving two terms on the Mayor’s Bicycle Advisory Committee and experience working for non-profits and bicycle sales well position her to bring depth and understanding to the complex changes currently taking place in the outdoor recreation industry.

The Dr. of Stoke has been part of the Engearment team since 2016.