Rank 45 Hoodie

Everything You Need to Know Before Purchasing This Cult Favorite Sweatshirt

The Rank 45 Hoodie has developed a cult following among streetwear enthusiasts and hypebeasts alike. Known for its premium materials, versatile styling and limited availability, this hoodie has become a grail piece for many collectors. But with its exclusive drops and high resale prices, buying an authentic Rank 45 Hoodie requires some knowledge. This buying guide will give you a deep dive into everything you need to know before purchasing your own Rank 45 Hoodie.

What is the Rank 45 Hoodie?

The Rank 45 Hoodie is the flagship product of the anonymous streetwear label Rank 45. Little is known about the origins of the brand, but its hoodies are recognizable by the large embroidered “R45” logo on the back. Made of heavyweight 12 oz cotton fleece, Rank 45 Hoodies feature a roomy fit, kangaroo pocket and drawstring hood. The hoodies drop in limited batches periodically, with each release featuring unique graphics and text printed on the sleeves and front pocket area.

Beyond the quality materials and elusive nature, the Rank 45 Hoodie gets its clout from its purposefully mysterious backstory. The anonymity of the label combined with the lack of advertising has created an aura of exclusivity around the Rank 45 that hypebeasts can’t resist. As a result, each drop sells out instantly, often reselling for 2-3 times retail price.

How to Buy a Rank 45 Hoodie

Given their limited quantity and hype-driven demand, buying a Rank 45 Hoodie isn’t as simple as just going online and adding one to your cart. Here are some tips for getting your hands on one of these coveted sweatshirts:

• Follow restock accounts on social media. Twitter accounts like @Rank45Restocks notify followers of upcoming Rank 45 releases. Turn on notifications so you don’t miss any drop info.
• Mark your calendar. Rank 45 announces new hoodie releases via Instagram stories. Typically drops occur every 4-6 months. Once a date is revealed, take note and prepare to act fast.
• Set up accounts ahead of time. You’ll need accounts at retailers like PacSun, Zumiez and DTLR which carry Rank 45 drops. Enter your info, payment details and shipping address so you can check out faster.
• Enter raffles if offered. For exclusive or limited colorways, Rank 45 may release the hoodies via raffle. Sign up for as many raffles as you can to increase your chances.
• Be ready on drop day. When the release goes live, try to purchase as fast as possible. Don’t hesitate or the hoodie will probably sell out in your size.
• Consider backdoor options. Local sneaker stores sometimes get Rank 45 stock for in-store purchase only. Building relationships with these boutiques can help secure you an exclusive drop.
• Buy resale as a last resort. If you take an L on a drop, you can find Rank 45 Hoodies reselling for above retail on sites like Grailed and StockX.

Where is the Rank 45 Hoodie Made?

The exact origins of Rank 45 Hoodies are shrouded in secrecy like much of the brand’s operations. Online speculation points to the hoodies being manufactured in Canada based on the fabric tags inside the garment. However, Rank 45 has never confirmed this.

Some also posit that Rank 45 Hoodies are actually blanks sourced from leading wholesale blank providers like CYC and Alstyle. According to this theory, Rank 45 would simply customize these blank hoodies with graphics and embroidery to create the final products. However, no concrete proof exists to confirm that Rank 45 Hoodies aren’t fully designed and manufactured within the brand’s own private supply chain.

Unless the minds behind Rank 45 come forward, the true production process for creating these hoodies may never be known. Regardless of where it’s made, the quality craftsmanship of the Rank 45 Hoodie is apparent in its premium materials and construction.

Features of the Rank 45 Hoodie

The standout features that define the Rank 45 Hoodie include:

• Oversized roomy fit – Unlike many slim-fitting hoodies on the market, the Rank 45 features a relaxed, boxy fit for a cozy feel. The oversized silhouette also allows for versatile styling.
• Signature heavyweight fleece – Rank 45 uses a premium 12 oz. cotton fleece that is thick and durable, yet remains soft on the inside. This lends the hoodie a luxurious hand-feel.
• Kangaroo pocket – The large kangaroo pocket provides function and style, giving the hoodie a classic streetwear look.
• Minimal branded embroidery – The back of each hoodie features custom “R45” embroidery, speaking to the brand’s understated approach.
• Limited edition graphics – Printed graphics and text on the sleeves and pockets change with every drop, making each release unique.
• Drawstring hood – A matching drawstring allows you to cinch up the hood for a cozy, windproof fit.
• Custom branded interior labels – Inside neck tags feature Rank 45’s logo, reinforcing the brand’s attention to detail.

Rank 45 Hoodie vs Other Hoodies

How does the Rank 45 Hoodie stack up against other coveted sweatshirts on the market? Here’s a brief overview:

• vs. Independent Trading Co. – Like the Rank 45, Independent Trading Co specializes in premium basics including hoodies. But Independent’s range of custom washes don’t offer the same exclusivity.
• vs. Reigning Champ – Reigning Champ hoodies feature similar heavyweight fleece. But their pared-back design lacks the mystique and hype of Rank 45.
• vs. Rhude – Rhude delivers luxe embellished hoodies, although the elaborate details detract from the everyday wearability. Rank 45’s aesthetic is more accessible and low-key.
• vs. Aime Leon Dore – Both offer coveted hoodies, but ALD focuses more on sophisticated prep styling rather than streetwear.
• vs. Supreme – Supreme’s iconic Box Logo hoodies demand higher resale prices. But their graphic-heavy look differs from Rank 45’s minimalist approach.

While other hoodies check some of the same boxes, Rank 45 stands apart with its combo of quality, scarcity and brand lore, making it undoubtedly a unicorn in any hypebeast’s closet.

Materials Used in the Rank 45 Hoodie

Rank 45 uses a cotton-polyester fleece blend for its signature hoodies. The primary material is cotton, prized for its softness and breathability. Cotton offers the broken-in feel that makes hoodies so comfy.

Polyester is blended in at a lower percentage to lend durability and shape retention. This prevents the cotton from stretching out or sagging over time. The poly blend also contributes to the thick, substantial hand-feel of a Rank 45 Hoodie.

The custom embroidered graphics are stitched using a high-density polyester thread for vibrant, lasting color. And the drawcords are likely a nylon or polyester material chosen for its strength and stretch.

By blending natural and synthetic fabrics, Rank 45 strikes the perfect balance between comfort and performance in its premium hoodies.

Sustainability of the Rank 45 Hoodie

Rank 45 has not publicly commented on the sustainability practices behind its hoodies. Some speculative reasons why:

• As a small, anonymous label, Rank 45 likely lacks the resources for comprehensive sustainability measures. Large fashion brands are more capable of investing in eco-friendly textile innovation.
• Their limited production model means Rank 45 cannot take advantage of economies of scale. Small batches aren’t as efficient to produce as mass quantities.
• The polyester used in Rank 45 Hoodies is likely virgin plastic-based, not recycled. Recycled polyester costs much more to source and manufacturer into textiles.
• Rank 45’s opaque brand image means they are not pressured by consumers to be transparent about manufacturing and materials. More visibility would require more accountability.

That said, Rank 45 still has opportunities to improve sustainability:

• Using organic cotton would reduce impact of raw material farming on the environment.
• Consulting with suppliers on renewable energy investments could reduce carbon footprint.
• Joining a traceability platform would add transparency about supply chain and labor practices.

While Rank 45 hoodies aren’t the most eco-friendly, smaller changes could make a difference as the brand scales.

How to Style a Rank 45 Hoodie

The oversized, minimalist look of a Rank 45 Hoodie makes it extremely versatile to style. Here are some styling tips:

• Pair it with lightwash or vintage blue jeans and white sneakers for an effortless weekend fit.
• Layer over a neutral t-shirt and black joggers for lounging or running errands.
• Throw on unbuttoned over a tank top and shorts as a streetwear-inspired cover up.
• Cropped with biker shorts or leggings brings an edgy Y2K twist.
• Cuffing the sleeves gives the hoodie a more preppy vibe.
• Add unexpected pops of color by layering over bright tees or accessories.
• Sport with cycling shorts and puffer vests for an elevated athleisure moment.
• Go full-on hypebeast with trendy shoes and caps from labels like Supreme and Palace.

The roomy Rank 45 Hoodie suits any personal style. You can dress it up, down or let it make a statement all on its own.

Pricing of the Rank 45 Hoodie

When bought first-hand, Rank 45 Hoodies retail between $128-$148 depending on the release. This positions the hoodie in the premium range, but not overly expensive compared to other designer brands.

However, you’ll almost always pay more buying second-hand. Rank 45 Hoodies resell for a minimum of $200, ranging up above to $300+ for rare colorways and sold out releases. For example, the light pink Rank 45 hoodie from Summer 2021 now fetches over $500 due to high demand and miniscule original stock numbers.

With each drop more anticipated than the last, expect resale prices on Rank 45 hoodies to only increase. If you want one straight from the source, act fast when new releases appear. Otherwise resale is the only option, often coming with an inflated price.

Reviews of the Rank 45 Hoodie

Rank 45 hoodie reviews offer valuable insight directly from customers:

• Owners praise the quality and softness of the heavyweight cotton fleece. One review called it “the most comfortable hoodie ever worn.”
• The roomy, oversized fit gets consistent positive feedback for offering a relaxed feel. However some caution sizing down for a less baggy look.
• Most say the hoodie remains thick and durable after many washes. A few mention slight fading of the graphics over time.
• The kangaroo pocket earns acclaim for providing function and adding stylish detail.
• Those lucky enough to grab limited colorways like yellow and purple gush over the unique hues.
• Fans of oversized, laidback streetwear style say the Rank 45 Hoodie elevates any basics outfit.
• Some note wishing the embroidered graphics were more prominent or covered more of the hoodie surface area.
• A common critique is wanting wider size availability since drops usually sell out super quick.

Based on reviews, the consensus is the Rank 45 Hoodie delivers outstanding quality and timeless design worthy of its hype. Just be prepared for the challenge of actually buying one.

Available Sizes for the Rank 45 Hoodie

Rank 45 Hoodies typically release in sizes Small through 2XL. Some drops have offered XXXL for a total size range of S-XXXL.

The sizing breaks down as follows:

• Small: Fits chest sizes 34″-36″
• Medium: Fits chest sizes 38″-40″
• Large: Fits chest sizes 42″-44″
• XL: Fits chest sizes 46″-48″
• 2XL: Fits chest sizes 50″-52″
• 3XL: Fits chest sizes 54″-56″ (available occasionally)

Keep in mind Rank 45 Hoodies fit oversized, so size down if you prefer a more fitted look. Also be aware of shrunken fits if buying pre-owned.

Sadly, Rank 45 does not offer Big & Tall extended sizes. The limited quantities sell out very quickly on drop days, so larger sizes are rumored to be even more scarce. Hopefully Rank 45 will expand their size range in the future.

How to Care for a Rank 45 Hoodie

Follow these tips to keep your Rank 45 Hoodie looking fresh:

• Machine wash cold and avoid high heat to prevent damaging the fabric
• Air dry only – don’t put Rank 45 Hoodies in the dryer to prevent shrinking
• Wash inside-out to protect the graphics from abrasion in the wash cycle
• Spot clean stains by dabbing gently with a mild detergent and water solution
• Steam occasionally to refresh the cotton fleece and remove odors
• Fold flat or hang on thick wooden hangers to maintain shape
• Spot treat embroidery and prints as needed with fabric refreshers to preserve colors
• Hand wash very delicately if dealing with a rare colorway at risk of fading

With proper care, your Rank 45 Hoodie will resist pilling, tears and distortion – allowing you to rep this grail piece for years.

Rank 45 Hoodie Return Policy

Rank 45 does not operate its own ecommerce site, so hoodies are sold strictly through authorized retail partners. Return policies vary by retailer.

For example, at Zumiez returns must be requested within 30 days. PacSun sets a shorter 15 day window. In both cases, items must be unworn with original tags still attached. Return shipping costs are deducted from refunds unless the return is due to an error like a defective product.

For resale sites, returns also depend on the individual seller’s policy. Sites like Grailed and StockX have their own guarantees in place to ensure buyers receive authentic items as described. But return timeframes are generally more restricted for secondhand goods.

The bottom line: Don’t expect much flexibility returning or exchanging a Rank 45 Hoodie. Given the quick sellouts, you’re lucky just to get your hands on one. It’s prudent to inspect hoodies immediately upon arrival and raise any issues right away.

Discounts on Rank 45 Hoodies

Rank 45 rarely offers discounts or deals. The mystique of the brand relies on maintaining perceived exclusivity through scarcity. Sales and promos would damage that premium image.

Occasionally retailers like Zumiez and PacSun will run blanket storewide sales that could include Rank 45. But the sizes and colors will be extremely limited. Outside those rare occasions, buyers pay full retail on new releases.

On resale sites, sellers do sometimes list Rank 45 Hoodies below market value. But that discount margin has shrunk considerably given the high demand. Any marked down resale Rank 45 will sell lightning fast.

Basically if you want the prestige of owning this hoodie, you shouldn’t expect or wait for deals. Be ready to pay resale prices, because availability is already scarce enough as is.

What Makes the Rank 45 Hoodie Unique

Several elements combine to make Rank 45 arguably the most coveted hoodie in streetwear:

• The anonymous origins shrouded in mystery
• Signature details like custom embroidery and iconic boxy fit
• Premium quality fleece, rivaling or exceeding luxury brands
• Artistic, constantly changing graphics connecting all releases
• The “blink and you’ll miss it” limited distribution model
• Impossible to purchase outside of quick strike drops
• Rarity driving hype on the secondary market
• A unicorn prize for hypebeasts and collectors

No other hoodie checks as many boxes. From the moment you feel its substantial fabric to getting compliments on its exclusivity, the Rank 45 Hoodie delivers an unmatched experience.

History of the Rank 45 Brand

Rank 45 exploded onto the streetwear scene in 2018, seemingly out of nowhere. The anonymous creators gave no interviews, offered no brand story and relied only on Instagram to organically spread awareness. Despite the mystery, hype for the quality hoodies grew like wildfire.

Now Rank 45 has become an established streetwear force dropping new must-have hoodies every few months. Yet the people behind it still remain unknown. A few theories attempt to guess the origins:

• A solo independent designer who prefers staying behind the scenes
• A celebrity side project from someone with connections
• An experimental side label from an existing streetwear brand
• A conceptual art project critiquing hype culture

But Rank 45 has left no concrete clues, staying resistant to press or public attention. As customers anxiously await each drop, the brand’s aloof, phantom-like image persists.

Rank 45 Target Audience

Rank 45 has cultivated an audience that intersects streetwear heads, hypebeasts and avant garde fashion. Buyers tend to exhibit these traits:

• Obsessive followers of streetwear who know all the insider labels
• Hypebeasts determined to buy hyped goods before anyone else
• Resellers hoping to profit from exclusives with inflated resale value
• Collectors and completests wanting the full set of releases
• Anti-establishment creatives drawn to counterculture brands
• Fashion-forward pioneers attracted to groundbreaking style
• Clout chasers motivated by social media status
• Devoted brand loyalists who only buy the best

Blending premium quality with disruptive marketing, Rank 45 has made an impact across streetwear culture. Owning one of its hoodies signals someone in-the-know.

Availability at Retailers

Due to the limited quantities, Rank 45 Hoodies are rarely sitting on shelves at any retailer. The online drops sell out in minutes, if not seconds in popular sizes. Here are some stores that have carried Rank 45 releases:

• Zumiez – major retailer that gets more Rank 45 stock than most
• PacSun – another national streetwear chain that consistently gets drops
• Bodega – with locations in Boston & LA, this boutique is well-connected
• Social Status – specialty streetwear store with sites in Charlotte, Houston and elsewhere
• Capsule – NYC based boutique that carried early Rank 45 releases
• Wish ATL – famous Atlanta streetwear boutique that draws hypebeast crowds
• Lapstone & Hammer – LA retailer sometimes gets inventory for in-store raffles

Checking sites like these on release days is crucial but expect things to go quickly. Outside of drops, resale is the only option.

Rank 45 Collaborations

True to its indie ethos, Rank 45 has never done an official collaboration. While team-ups are common for streetwear brands looking to fuse audiences, Rank 45 has shunned outside creative input.

Unofficially, some brands have piggybacked off Rank 45’s hype. For example, bootleg “Rank 44” and “Rank 46” hoodies have circulated trying to confuse shoppers into thinking they’re associated.

But devoted Rank 45 fans scoff at these knockoffs. Part of the appeal is the loner image and small operation feel. Any collabs would likely damage that outsider brand aura, unless done in an extremely unexpected way.

Latest Rank 45 Hoodie Trends

As a leader in the space, Rank 45 isn’t following streetwear trends – it’s setting them. Themes across its latest releases include:

• Shrunken fits – Oversized still dominates but some newer drops have leaned into a cropped, shrunken silhouette.
• Text-based graphics – Bold typographic prints have taken center stage as the featured visuals.
• Tie-dye or dip-dyed fabrics – A recent popular drop featured a pastel pink tie-dyed hoodie.
• All-over prints – Floral, camo and graphic prints are showing up on sleeves and pocket areas.
• Colorblock variations – Mixing black, grey and white paneling adds another layer of style.
• Cinched waist and crops – Cropped hemlines and elastic waistband cinches put a fresh spin on the classic hoodie cut.

By incrementally shifting designs while retaining signature details, Rank 45 manages to be simultaneously consistent yet unpredictable. This careful balance keeps hypebeasts eagerly anticipating what’s next.

The Bottom Line

For streetwear enthusiasts, owning a Rank 45 Hoodie is a badge of honor flaunting taste, dedication and clout. But obtaining one requires strategy, persistence and willingness to invest. Use this guide to understand theRank 45 essence so when the next can’t-miss drop hits, you’ll be ready to score the hoodie other hypebeasts envy.