In the hallways and classrooms of every school, there lies a unique group of students. These students, known as “performative males,” have adopted a distinctive set of traits and qualities. Some of these characteristics include wearing quarter zips and drinking matcha. This recent obsession has taken the school by storm. Now, some may ask, why abandon Nike Tech hoodies for quarter zips? To understand this trend, we have to dive into the mindset of a “performative male.”
There are many logical reasons behind abandoning Nike Techs for quarter zips. The first reason is that quarter zips are more affordable, which helps you make smarter decisions. When considering buying a quarter zip, its price (without a sale) can range from $20 – $40 for entry level, $60 – $100 for mid-range level, and $100 + for a premium level product. On the other hand, a Nike Tech’s cost without sale ranges from $90 – $160. The lowest price of $90 usually contains either the sweatpants, shorts, or hoodie. To get a bundle, the price is around $125. The highest price of $160 is for the premium Nike Tech option. These prices are already at a lofty amount. For an ordinary individual, buying a quarter zip would be more affordable and thus preferable from a financial point of view.
As you can see, quarter zips are much more affordable than Nike Techs, but are they worth the dollar in terms of comfort? Quarter zips are made from cotton and polyester and are therefore lightweight. They can be great for layering, as it doesn’t get too hot or feel bulky. According to Ahmed Osman, a junior, “When I’m wearing a quarter zip in school, I sometimes just fall asleep because of how warm and cozy it is. It layers great on top of my uniform.” The Nike Tech is made of an engineered type of cotton and polyester, but in contrast, it’s a lot heavier. Therefore, it’s not that great for layering, as it can get really uncomfortable due to heat. Overall, the Nike Tech is a lot less breathable compared to the standard quarter zip.
Furthermore, not only is the quarter zip more comfortable, but it is also more versatile. The quarter zip has a classy and mature look. It can be worn on many separate occasions, such as in the gym, work, school, casually, and in semi-professional settings. According to junior Dinner Abdellah, “I wear this quarter zip in and out of school. I wear it at home, at the park, and at school. The quarter zip fits every occasion. It can raise your personality to its fullest. That’s the truth about the quarter zips.” Conversely, the Nike Tech has a casual streetwear look. Hence, the Nike Tech doesn’t fit in with many situations.
To wrap things up, there are many logical reasons why you should abandon the Nike Tech for the quarter zip, including affordability, comfort, and versatility. Especially in an environment where no hoodies are allowed at BHA, the quarter zip works perfectly as an alternative. The quarter zip may not get the same attention that the Nike Tech gains, but it does give that professional and mature look that defines the “performative male.”
