A pullover goes over your head and suits warmth and simplicity. A zip hood opens down the front, so you can vent, layer and shed it quickly.

Both usually fit relaxed, and fabric weight matters more than the zipper. Here’s how the styles differ, what they’re made from and what they cost.

The main styles you’ll see

The range changes every season, but these shapes keep returning.

• Pullover hoodie. The classic: kangaroo pocket, drawstring hood and ribbed trims.

• Cotton fleece zip hood. A full front zip, in the same family of fabrics as the pullover.

• Thermal zip hood. One listing describes a zip hood in heavy-duty thermal fabric lined with faux shearling, with zippered kangaroo pockets and a custom zip pull.

• Tech-fleece hooded jacket. A listing for a hooded fleece describes fleece construction, a front zip, angled zip pockets, nylon hood and sleeve taping and elasticated cuffs and hem.

• Half-zip hoodie. A collaboration example lists 100% cotton outside and lining, ribbed cuffs, an adjustable drawstring hem and a relaxed fit.

• Neoprene zip-through. A collaboration piece in polyester neoprene has a full zip, elasticated cuffs and hem, an adjustable hood cord and a zip chest pocket.

A recent seasonal drop also included a sporty zip hood, released in February 2026. Styles rotate, so check the official palace shop for what’s available now.

Zip hood vs. pullover: which should you choose?

Neither is better. They solve different problems.

Why choose a pullover

• Simpler construction. No zip to snag or fail.

• Warmer at the chest. No front opening for air to sneak through.

• Cleaner graphics. Large front prints sit uninterrupted.

Why choose a zip hood

• Easy to vent. Open it when you warm up on a walk or skate session.

• Fast on and off. No pulling over your head.

• Layers cleanly. It works open under a jacket or closed as an outer layer.

• Often more technical. Pocket zips, shearling linings and taped details show up here.

If you run warm or move between heated rooms and cold streets, a zip hood is more practical. For a plain, cozy layer, a pullover is hard to beat.

Fabric and weight

Fabric decides warmth. Here’s what the listings show.

• Cotton fleece. Most pullovers and many zip hoods use heavy cotton fleece with a brushed inside.

• Thermal and shearling-lined. Added lining boosts insulation in colder weather.

• Tech fleece. Mixed fabrics and nylon trims add wind resistance.

• Neoprene polyester. Smooth and structured, but it doesn’t breathe like cotton.

I couldn’t find published GSM figures for Palace hoodies, so check each product page and ask the seller if the weight isn’t listed. The light test still works: hold the fabric up, and if you can see through it, it won’t hold heat.

Check these details on any zip hood:

1. Zip quality. It should run smoothly without catching.

2. Zip garage or guard. A small fabric flap stops the metal touching your chin.

3. Pocket zips. They should sit flat and close fully.

4. Ribbed cuffs and hem. They should snap back, and they seal in heat.

5. Lining. Look for brushed fleece or shearling if you want real warmth.

Fit and sizing

The cut leans relaxed, with roomy shoulders and a slightly longer body. A front zip doesn’t change the size, but it changes how the hood sits.

• Stay true to size for a roomy look, or size down one for a neater fit.

• Think about layers. A hoodie under a shell needs room, so don’t squeeze.

• Check the flat measurements. Chest width and body length matter more than the letter.

• Watch them. Elasticated or drawstring hems seal heat and change the silhouette.

If you’re between sizes, ask what you’ll wear underneath. A thick thermal piece may call for the larger one.

Prices and resale for zip hoods

Recent zip hoods show a wide spread. These come from marketplace pages checked in October 2026.

• A thermal zip hood was listed at $132 retail on one retailer page.

• A spring/summer 2025 zip hood retailed at US$178. Its last sale was 87% above retail, from a single sale in three months.

• A winter 2024 zip hood retailed at US$218, with a last sale of £310.

• An autumn 2025 collaboration zip hood retailed at $298. Its last sale was 25% below retail, at $184, with two sales in three months.

The pattern is familiar. Some zip hoods sell far above retail, while others sell below it. Samples are small, and currencies vary, so compare completed sales for the exact piece before paying a premium. This is general information, not financial advice.

Choosing for warmth and style

Use this quick guide:

• Cold and still. A pullover or thermal zip hood in heavy fleece.

• Cool and active. A cotton zip hood you can open when you warm up.

• Windy. A tech-fleece hooded jacket or a zip hood under a shell.

• Dressy streetwear. A clean pullover in a neutral color with a subtle graphic.

• Skating. A zip hood you can vent, plus protective gear.

Care matters, too. Zip the hoodie up before washing, wash cold and air dry to protect prints and fleece. [Internal link suggestion: “Palace Clothing Care Guide”]

A cold-weather tip

Pair a mid-weight hoodie with a structured outer layer. You get real insulation without looking bulky.

FAQ: Palace hoodies and zip hoods

Are Palace zip hoods warmer than pullovers?

Not automatically. Warmth depends on fabric weight and lining, not the zipper. A pullover has no front opening, but a thermal zip hood with shearling lining can be warmer than a light pullover.

How do Palace zip hoods fit?

Generally relaxed, like the pullovers. Stay true to size for a roomy look or size down one for a neater cut. Check the flat measurements and plan for layers.

What fabric are Palace hoodies made from?

Many use heavy cotton fleece, while others use thermal linings, tech fleece or neoprene polyester. Check each product page for fabric details, since materials vary by piece.

How much does a Palace zip hood cost?

Recent examples retailed from about $132 to $298, depending on style and collaboration. Prices vary by drop and region, so confirm on the official palace shop.

Should I buy a zip hood or a pullover?

Choose a zip hood for venting and easy layering, and a pullover for simplicity and a cleaner graphic. Match the fabric weight to your weather, whichever style you pick.

Conclusion: pick the style, then check the fabric

So, what separates Palace hoodies and zip hoods? Pullovers are simple and cozy, zip hoods are flexible and often more technical, and fabric weight decides warmth in both. A palace hoodie in heavy fleece with ribbed cuffs is a safe base for winter, and Palace skateboards gave the whole look its relaxed fit.

Start at the official palace shop, check the fabric and zip details and choose the style you’ll wear all season. Palace clothing works best when you buy for your weather, not your feed.