C.P. Company Goggle: the lens-hooded zip sweatshirt, prices and buying guide

Two lenses on the hood, a zip that closes up to the chin: the Goggle sweatshirt is C.P. Company's most recognisable piece, and the one that brings the most people into the brand. Here is what to know before buying one, new or pre-owned.

Where does the Goggle come from?

From Massimo Osti, the Bolognese designer who founded C.P. Company in the early 1970s. In 1988 he designed the Mille Miglia, a jacket conceived for the entrants of the famous Italian motor race, with goggles built straight into the hood so the driver had nothing else to carry.

The idea was purely functional. It became the house's signature, applied since to jackets, sweatshirts and softshells. The cotton-fleece Goggle keeps the gesture and brings it into everyday wear.

The versions to know

The zip Goggle

The most common and most sought after: full zip, double-lens hood, side pockets. It is worn open over a t-shirt or closed under a jacket. See the available Zip Goggle.

The hoodie

Pullover version, warmer and more casual, with or without lenses depending on the season. See the C.P. Company hoodies.

The crew neck

The most understated version, often marked by the small lens on the sleeve rather than by the goggles. It is also the most affordable. See the crew neck knitwear.

How much does a C.P. Company sweatshirt cost?

New in an official store, a zip Goggle generally sits between €280 and €400 depending on the material.

Authenticated second-hand, in our current stock:

• Zip Goggle: from €160 to €190.
• Hoodies: from €130 to €180.
• Crew necks: from €50, most between €120 and €160.

It is one of the best iconic-piece-to-price ratios in premium streetwear today. The whole C.P. Company sweatshirts and knitwear collection is online.

The lens: the detail that authenticates

C.P. Company lenses are set in a clean metal ring, with slightly tinted glass and no glue residue. On copies, the ring is often crude, the glass is soft plastic, and the attachment to the hood is misaligned.

Also check the inner labels, the regularity of the topstitching and the quality of the zip: the brand uses well-made closures, never rough. Every piece that comes into Prego goes through that check before listing. See our Authentication & guarantees page.

Which size to take?

C.P. Company runs fairly slim, with narrow shoulders. If you are hesitating, or if you want a roomy drape, size up. The detail per category is in our C.P. Company sizing guide.

How to wear it

• Open over a white t-shirt, with cargos and low sneakers.
• Closed under a technical jacket in mid-season, hood out.
• With raw straight jeans: the Goggle brings enough character for the rest to stay neutral.

FAQ

What are the goggles on the hood for?

Originally, to protect the eyes of the drivers in the 1988 Mille Miglia race. Today it is a design element, but the lenses are genuine lenses.

Does C.P. Company run large or small?

Rather small and fitted. Size up for a relaxed wear.

What is the difference with Stone Island?

Both brands come from the same designer, Massimo Osti. C.P. Company is more discreet and more technical in spirit, Stone Island more assertive with its compass badge. The full comparison is here.

Is a pre-owned Goggle a good buy?

Yes. The brand's fleece and finishes hold up very well over time, for roughly half the price.

Can you try it on in Toulouse?

Yes, at 5 bis rue de Mirepoix, Tuesday to Saturday from 11:30 to 19:00. All the online stock is present in store.

See the available pieces: Zip Goggle, hoodies, all C.P. Company clothing.