FRIENDS Hoodie Blanket Women, Sherpa Fleece Oversized Hoodie Poncho(Black)

Product Information

There is a lot of debate on the Mumsnet forums about how to keep warm this winter, and blanket hoodies have been a popular point of discussion. There's no doubt that Oodie reigns supreme when it comes to blanket hoodies, but their cosy designs don't come cheap (although our users swear they're worth the investment). If your budget doesn't stretch quite that far though, fear not, as there are plenty of high-quality Oodie alternatives available. So, whether you’re looking for a super warm and cosy hooded blanket, a kids' blanket hoodie or a bold, patterned original Oodie, we’ve carefully collated a snuggly selection. How we tested the best blanket hoodies WITH temperatures dropping and heating costs rising, an oversized hooded blanket should be an essential item of loungewear this autumn and winter. Part poncho and part blanket, it can be fastened together at the front, swung over your shoulder, or simply laid flat over your body, and it heats up gently to warm the top half of your body.

hooded blankets for 2023 for staying warm - The Sun 11 best hooded blankets for 2023 for staying warm - The Sun

It’s definitely one for wearing while cosying up on the sofa rather than when trying to get anything productive done, as its size and weight make it a little cumbersome, and the large hood often falls over the eyes – great for napping, not so great for WFH. Blanket hoodies (or hooded blankets) are basically a jumper with a large hood that doubles up as a blanket or, in more simple terms, they're oversized hoodies. They're not only functional (keeping you super warm) but they can be stylish and cosy too. Blanket hoodies are a versatile garment for your wardrobe and they're perfect for lounging on the sofa on cold days, wearing after a gym session, taking on a camping trip or keeping the wind chill off at the beach. What material is best for a blanket hoodie? This hoodie is, of course, oversized, but not so big around the hood or sleeves that you can’t see, eat or type – we could comfortably wear this at our WFH desk or walking around the house without it getting in the way.They may also help to save you money on your heating bill this winter too, as heating the body is always a cheaper option than heating the home; ideal if you work from home or spend long periods of time bingeing Netflix on the sofa.

FRIENDS Hoodie for Girls Teens, Fleece Oversized Hoodie

Arguably the original and most famous, the word ‘Oodie’ is now synonymous with hooded blankets – we even found ourselves telling people that we were “testing out Oodies” when talking about this feature. If you’re after that fluffier, soft-as-clouds style of fleece rather than the denser type of, say, Oodie, this is the best one we tested. This poncho’s shape means that your hands remain free for typing, drinking, reading etc (although does mean that they miss out on the heat), and we found this perfect for keeping the upper body warm when working from home on chilly days.We did find this one to be ever so slightly looser around the bottom, letting the odd autumnal draft in – but on the plus side Snuggly says theirs can be tumble dried on a low heat, unlike Oodie’s. The long elasticated cuffs at the wrists are also useful, keeping your sleeves rolled up and well out of the way if you want to, say, type or cook.

FRIENDS Hoodie Blanket Women, Sherpa Fleece Oversized Hoodie

Your biggest problem will probably be deciding which design to go for, as there are tens, if not hundreds to choose from (we lost count at 80), including animals, food, star signs – even ones from franchises like Harry Potter and Friends. There are a few different styles – and prices – on the market, but the hoodies from specialist retailers like Oodie, Kudd.ly, Onesnug and Snuggly are all very similar, if we’re being honest. Size: One size Material: Fleece exterior, sherpa fleece interior No. of designs: 15 Where to buy hooded blankets in the UK It also got the ‘paws up’ from our feline tester, who couldn’t stop kneading into this super-soft fabric (on the downside this sherpa fabric does collect cat hair like a magnet…)

How we chose our recommendations

For us, though, Oodie just takes the top spot for keeping the body at the perfect temperature and for its vast range of designs and viral fame. Are hooded blankets worth it?