When it comes to everyday comfort, nothing beats a hoodie. But for individuals with sensory sensitivities—particularly those with autism or sensory processing differences—not all hoodies feel the same. At Cloud Nine Clothing, we’ve reimagined the hoodie through the lens of sensory-friendly design, and the result is something truly special: a cozy, functional piece that feels like a gentle hug all day long.
Let’s take you inside the design process and show you what actually makes a hoodie sensory-friendly.
1. Fabric is Everything
The first thing we consider? Touch. Sensory-friendly hoodies start with ultra-soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic fabrics. Our hoodies are made from high-quality cotton blends that are smooth against the skin—no scratchy textures, no stiff seams.
We also avoid synthetic fibers that may cause irritation or trap heat. Every Cloud Nine hoodie is designed to feel soft on the inside and out, providing comfort from the moment it's worn.
2. Tagless & Seamless Where It Matters
One of the biggest triggers for sensory discomfort? Tags and bulky seams.
That’s why we’ve eliminated all scratchy tags and opted for heat-pressed labels instead. The inner seams are either hidden or flattened to reduce friction. For many, these small details make a world of difference—no more itching, scratching, or distractions.
3. Gentle Fit, Not Tight or Restrictive
A sensory-friendly hoodie should never feel too tight or too loose. We focus on a relaxed fit that allows freedom of movement without feeling baggy. The cuffs and waistband are flexible and soft—not stiff elastic that can dig into the skin.
This balanced fit helps wearers feel secure, but not restricted—like a wearable safe space.
4. Zippers, Drawstrings & Extras—With a Twist
We get it—zippers can be tricky. That’s why we either use covered zippers or avoid them entirely on some of our designs. If we do include them, they’re smooth-glide and non-irritating.
Drawstrings are designed with safety and comfort in mind, and some hoodies skip them altogether based on customer preference. Buttons, snaps, and any decorative elements are chosen carefully, or removed entirely, to avoid unnecessary sensory input.
5. Weight and Warmth: Just Right
Some people love a bit of heaviness for that calming effect, while others want something feather-light. That’s why Cloud Nine offers a range of hoodie weights—so you can choose the level of coziness that feels right for you.
We're even working on integrating subtle weight distribution for those who benefit from deep-pressure comfort. Stay tuned for that!
6. Mood-Boosting Colors and Thoughtful Style
We believe clothing can be expressive and functional. Our hoodies come in calming, non-overstimulating colors—think soft pastels, earth tones, and neutrals. And of course, the clean, minimalist design means there’s nothing visually “loud” or overstimulating.
It’s all about creating pieces that bring peace of mind and a sense of ease—inside and out.
More Than Just Clothing
At Cloud Nine Clothing, we design with empathy. Every hoodie is a result of listening to feedback from neurodivergent individuals, parents, therapists, and sensory advocates. We're proud to create apparel that promotes dignity, confidence, and comfort for everyone.
Looking for your next favorite hoodie? Discover our sensory-friendly collection today—designed to soothe, not stimulate.