G’day, mate. Look, I’m not usually one to rave about clothes—give me something comfy and I’m sorted. But I’ve got to hand it to the Essentials Hoodie and the Essentials Tracksuit. I didn’t think I’d care that much, but these two have become my default gear, whether I’m dashing out for a morning coffee in Sydney or trying not to freeze while walking the dog in Hobart.
First Time I Chucked It On
So, I picked up my first Essentials Hoodie down in Melbourne during one of those “four seasons in a day” types of weeks. Didn’t think much of it at first. Just needed something warm, decent-looking, and not outrageously priced. Mate, I was surprised.
What’s So Good About It?
Honestly, it’s the fit and feel. The Essentials Hoodie sits just right—doesn’t ride up when you’re sitting down, and the sleeves don’t do that annoying stretch thing after a wash. The Essentials Tracksuit is the same deal. I’ve worn mine from Brisbane airport to a weekend footy game in Adelaide, and it holds up.
For the Hoodie:
- Stays comfy even after a long day
- Doesn’t cling in weird places
- Works with shorts, jeans, or trackies
And the Tracksuit:
- Breathable but still warm enough for Canberra mornings
- Holds its shape
- Easy to chuck on and still look half-decent
Around the Country With It
Sydney
Mornings in Newtown? Chuck on the hoodie. Breezy but not freezing. If I’m heading to the fish markets or just doing a beach walk, I’m always in the tracksuit pants. Light, flexible—no dramas.
Melbourne
You never know what the weather’s gonna do here. I usually layer up with the hoodie under a light jacket. Comfortable for those long tram rides or wandering through Queen Vic Market.
Brisbane
Look, it gets warm. But the lighter version of the Essentials Tracksuit? Spot on. Perfect for evenings by the river or a sneaky Nando’s run.
Adelaide
Easy-going place, and so is the gear. If I’m grabbing coffee near Glenelg or just catching up with mates in the hills, I’m probably in this set.
Perth
Love walking along the beach or heading out for brekkie near Fremantle? Hoodie’s just right for the cool mornings, and the tracksuit pants don’t trap sand.
Darwin
During the dry season, it cools down nicely in the evenings. I wore the hoodie nearly every night last time I visited. Not too thick, which helps.
Hobart
If you’ve been, you know it gets crisp. The Essentials Tracksuit is my go-to for heading out early—doesn’t matter if it’s groceries or a trip to Salamanca Market.
What I Reckon It Does Best
- Doesn’t wrinkle like mad. I’ve stuffed it in backpacks, tossed it in my ute, and it still comes out looking alright.
- Washes up easily. No shrinkage, no fading, just straight back in the rotation.
- Goes with everything. Seriously, I’ve worn the hoodie with chinos for a dinner out, and no one blinked.
See also: Los Angeles’ Hidden Gems
Not Just Me Either
Seen tradies in Geelong wearing it under high-vis, uni kids rocking it in Newcastle, even saw a couple in Cairns wearing matching tracksuits on a hike. It’s not a fashion statement—it’s just stuff that works.
Final Say
Look, I’m not a model. I’m just someone who values comfort, a bit of style, and not having to think too hard when I get dressed. The Essentials Hoodie and Essentials Tracksuit tick all the boxes. Reliable, comfy, and Aussie-weather approved.
Give ’em a go. Odds are, they’ll end up on high rotation in your wardrobe too—just like they did in mine.
