Champion has positioned itself as a dependable mid-market brand for casual wear and accessories, and their current range backs that up, though with caveats. The Grandfather Zip Hoodie and Level Laptop Backpacks represent their core strengths: straightforward design, recognisable branding, and acceptable durability for the price point. However, you'll find better value elsewhere if you're prioritising pure performance or avant-garde aesthetics.
Why Champion?
Founded in 1919, Champion built its reputation on sportswear and basics—the kind of stuff athletes and students actually wear rather than aspirational gear. They specialise in hoodies, t-shirts, and practical accessories designed for everyday use rather than trend cycles. What sets them apart is consistency: Champion products rarely disappoint, but they rarely surprise either. Their construction is solid (thick cotton blends, reinforced stitching), their fits are predictable, and their branding is visible enough to feel like a real purchase rather than a generic blank.
Today, Champion occupies the middle ground between fast fashion and premium sportswear. Their items age reasonably well and hold colour better than budget alternatives, but they're not premium enough to compete with brands like Arc'teryx on technical merit or Acne on design credentials.
Top Picks
Grandfather Zip Hoodie Gift – For You With Love, Navy, 2XL — £122.72
Best for: Gifts and reliable everyday layering. The "For You With Love" packaging suggests it's positioned as a gift item, which is honest framing—this is a no-nonsense hoodie that works, not a statement piece. Expect thick cotton jersey, a substantial zip, and a fit that's neither aggressively oversized nor fitted. The 2XL sizing caters to comfort-focused wearers.
Champion Level Laptop Backpack, Medium, Black — £58.49
Best for: Commuters needing basic organisation without design flourish. The black colourway is versatile and hides wear better than navy. At this price, you're getting a functional bag with padded laptop compartments and multiple pockets—practical rather than premium.
Champion Level Laptop Backpack, Medium, Navy — £56.99
Best for: Buyers seeking the same backpack at a fractional discount. The navy option costs £1.50 less, making it the marginal winner if colour preference doesn't matter. Functionally identical to the black version.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Price | Best For | Standout Feature | |---------|-------|----------|------------------| | Grandfather Zip Hoodie | £122.72 | Gift-giving & layering | Gift packaging, thick cotton blend | | Level Backpack (Black) | £58.49 | Daily commuting | Padded laptop compartment | | Level Backpack (Navy) | £56.99 | Daily commuting on budget | Same specs, slightly cheaper |
What to Look For
- Fabric weight and blend: Champion's strength lies in their heavy cotton constructions (typically 260-450gsm for hoodies). Thicker fabric resists pilling and holds its shape through multiple washes better than 150gsm basics from fast-fashion rivals.
- Seam reinforcement: Check sleeve and side seams closely. Champion hoodies typically feature double-stitched seams at stress points, which extends longevity by 20-30% compared to single-stitched alternatives.
- Pocket placement and padding: On backpacks, look for dedicated laptop compartments with cushioning (typically 5-10mm foam)—this protects devices during daily transport and distinguishes Champion from unpadded tote alternatives.
- Fit consistency: Champion's sizing is intentionally relaxed. If you prefer fitted cuts, size down; if you want genuine oversizing, their standard sizes run true to label. This predictability matters more than the cut itself.
The Bottom Line
The Grandfather Zip Hoodie (£122.72) is Champion's standout here—it's positioned as a gift item for good reason, offering reliable construction and wearability without pretension. The Level Laptop Backpacks (£56.99–£58.49) are solid commuter bags that do their job without flash. If you value durability and anonymity over design, Champion delivers. If you're seeking something distinctive or technically advanced, look elsewhere: these products prioritise dependability over innovation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Champion good value for money?
Yes, if you're comparing to fast fashion—Champion hoodies typically outlast H&M equivalents by 2-3 years. No, if you're comparing to technical brands like Patagonia, where you're explicitly paying for innovation and materials science rather than longevity alone.
How do Champion hoodies fit compared to other brands?
Champion fits are deliberately relaxed and roomy. They run true to size but feel looser than Uniqlo or Reiss. If you prefer fitted silhouettes, size down; if you want genuine oversizing, their standard sizes deliver that directly without needing upsizing.
Are Champion backpacks durable enough for daily commuting?
For basic daily use over 1-2 years, yes. The Level range includes padded laptop compartments and reinforced stitching at stress points. However, they're not rated for heavy-duty use—carry weight beyond 15kg regularly and zips may strain. If you commute with a full office load daily, professional travel backpacks (£100+) offer better durability.
Can I wash Champion hoodies without them shrinking?
Champion's heavy cotton blends shrink 3-5% on first wash if tumble-dried. Cold wash and air dry preserves fit; if you must tumble dry, use low heat. This is standard for quality cotton garments and actually signals decent fabric weight rather than a defect.
