[2026] Those who laugh at fleece will cry over fleece. The best fleece models for mountain use and other uses, as well as tips for choosing the right fleece
Written by Yasushi Hisatomi
From jackets, pullovers, pants, gloves, beanies, blankets, and even pet wear, fleece is probably one of the most well-known and beloved outdoor products
Until recently, fleece was the only choice for cold weather clothing in the mountains. However, the situation has changed dramatically in recent years with the advent of so-called "active insulation." In this day and age, it seems that even those who are knowledgeable about mountain gear are finding it difficult to consider fleece as a cold weather clothing option
However, it would be a shame to dismiss fleece as obsolete. Fleece's overall well-balanced performance as cold-weather clothing for mountain climbing is still intact and not a lost cause. Furthermore, it's also true that fleece itself has been strengthened, improved, and diversified in many ways, not just in terms of functionality and design, thanks to technological innovation over the past half century. The requirements for fleece made by specialized outdoor brands and fleece sold at Nikro are completely different, and it's safe to say that the resulting products are completely different
In other words, even though we simply say "fleece," there is a much deeper world within it than you might imagine, and despite its true potential, fleece today is often underestimated as something that has a certain atmosphere
So this time, we thoroughly checked out around 127 fleece jackets (excluding versions with or without hoods, etc.) on sale in Japan for the 2025-26 season, and checked out those that cannot actually be used in the field in stores, and have picked out the best high-performance, high-quality fleece models that will still be useful outdoors, categorized by use and purpose
In the second half, we'll take a fresh look at the different types of evolved fleece available and the criteria you should use to choose one. We hope this will be helpful for those who are thinking about buying winter clothing for the outdoors, or for those who are overwhelmed by the sheer number of fleece-like products and don't know what to choose
Please note that we are only introducing one or two recommended models in each category here, but you can view a comparison list of all the best candidates, including other recommendations, by becoming a member
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table of contents
- [By Use/Preference] Vests and Fleece Jackets
- Best Overall Mountain Fleece: Patagonia R1 Air Full-Zip Hoody
- The NORRONA falketind Power Grid Hood and other Polartec® Power Grid-equipped models are specialized for mountain use
- Best/Highly breathable, quick-drying fleece jacket: Houdini Pace Flow Hoody
- Best Fleece Jacket for Alpine Activities: LA SPORTIVA Lucendro Thermal Hoody / Aequilibrium Thermal Hoody
- Best Warm & Comfortable Fleece Jacket: Mountain Hardwear Polartec Hi-Loft Grid Jacket
- Best cost-effective fleece jacket: Rab Nexus Hoody / Mont-bell Trail Action Parka
- If you're only looking for functionality, you can't go wrong with the Mont-Bell Trail Action Parka
- Vest/Outdoor Fleece Jacket that Can Also Be Used as an Outerwear: Patagonia R1 Tech Face Hoody
- How to choose: What is fleece and when, where and how to wear it?
- How to Choose: 5 Things to Check to Choose the Best Fleece
- summary
[By Use/Preference] Vests and Fleece Jackets
Best Overall Mountain Fleece: Patagonia R1 Air Full-Zip Hoody
First up is the overall best category, which is the pinnacle of all fleeces, and which fleece would you most like to wear if you were to wear fleece this season? I've mentioned this elsewhere recently, so it's not new, but I'll mention it again
Patagonia, the pioneer of fleece, is currently recommending the latest fleece, the R1 Air Full-Zip Hoodie .
The appeal of this jacket can be summed up in one word: it combines the "good balance and comfort of traditional fleece" with the "high breathability and warmth of active insulation." The unique construction of the jacquard fleece, made from lightweight, highly insulating hollow fibers, combines lightness with warmth and breathability/quick drying at a high level. Because it's not too thin, it can be worn over a base layer for fall and winter trail running, ski touring, climbing approaches, and fast-paced hikes in cold weather. The jacket version without the hood has a slightly looser silhouette, making it perfect for both outdoor and everyday wear
The NORRONA falketind Power Grid Hood and other Polartec® Power Grid-equipped models are specialized for mountain use
On the other hand, while they do not necessarily emphasize modern functionality such as "high breathability and light weight" like the R1 Air, various lightweight fleece jackets that use "Polartec® Power Grid" as their fabric are models that can be said to be "synonymous with modern outdoor fleece," as they have evolved while maintaining the sufficient versatility and balance of traditional mountain fleece and have high levels of heat retention, breathability, quick-drying, and stretchability
Take the NORRONA falketind Power Grid Hood for example . The excellent fit and ease of movement provided by Polartec® Power Grid™ make it ideal for mountain wear that requires maximum performance without unnecessary bulk. Despite its lightweight construction, it features a balaclava hood, full zip, thumbholes, left and right pockets, and a chest pocket, making it suitable for a wide range of situations, from an outer layer in early autumn to a mid-layer in the harsh winter.
In addition, the Millet Fusion Grid Hoodie is slightly thick and can be used as a reliable mid-layer in winter. It has a rare and convenient double zipper on the front. However, it lacks thumb holes and a chest pocket. The Patagonia R1 Jacket has an excellent thickness and components, but it lacks a hood. The Mountain Hardwear Polartec Power Grid FZ Hoodie is thicker and more suitable for winter, but it is slightly heavier. In any case, it is a slim model, so it is best to try it on in the store to make sure the size fits you.
Best/Highly breathable, quick-drying fleece jacket: Houdini Pace Flow Hoody
While it's unclear whether this can truly be called fleece, it is based on Polartec® Power Dry®, originally used in fleeces (or base layers). The " Houdini Pace Flow Hoody " is a mid-layer made from Polartec® Power Dry® Mesh, a highly functional mesh construction. The large mesh allows for powerful airflow within the garment, expelling excess heat and moisture. When worn under a shell, it creates a warm, insulating layer, providing excellent insulation. This makes it one of the most breathable fleeces available. When worn, it feels like the "sweat-wicking properties of a base layer and the insulating properties of a mid-layer" have been combined to dramatically increase breathability. In terms of breathability, it's used much like active insulation, so unlike the general fleeces we've discussed here, its use is more selective. However, its environmental friendliness and sophisticated design make it a highly useful jacket depending on how you use it.
Best Fleece Jacket for Alpine Activities: LA SPORTIVA Lucendro Thermal Hoody / Aequilibrium Thermal Hoody
This fleece is ideal for climbing, high altitude areas, and rocky ridges with few obstructions, when considering performance during hard activities that require the full use of climbing equipment. It is basically the same as the overall vest above, but with this you also need to take into account high athletic performance, durability against rubbing and friction, and compatibility with harnesses, etc
For the best, I'd like to recommend the LA SPORTIVA Lucendro Thermal Hoody . First, when I put it on, I was relieved by the precise three-dimensional cut, and the main material is slightly thick Polartec® Power Grid, which ensures stretch and breathability and quick drying, and the nylon reinforcement around the shoulders makes it perfect, and it also has two chest pockets, thumb holes, a longer back length, and other details that are convenient for vertical situations.
Aequilibrium Thermal Hoody is from the same brand and has a similar concept, is also hard to throw away. This is an excellent thermal for spring and summer, as it is ultra-thin and lightweight yet well-thought-out in terms of durability.
However, considering the cold autumn and winter months like this, the Lucendro Thermal Hoody is the best choice. It may not be available in many stores, but if you can find it, be sure to check it out.
Best Warm & Comfortable Fleece Jacket: Mountain Hardwear Polartec Hi-Loft Grid Jacket
While offering the basic functionality of fleece, fleece is ideal for relaxing in a tent. This type of fleece is particularly lightweight, warm, and focused on a smooth feel and comfort. These fleeces feature a "high-loft" pile, a thick, brushed fabric with a long, voluminous pile. One of the most outstanding models is the Mountain Hardwear Polartec High Loft Grid Jacket . The long pile of Polartec® High Loft™ provides incredible warmth and a smooth feel that makes it a true blanket. What's even more impressive about this model is that it combines high loft with a grid construction for excellent breathability. This results in a surprisingly lightweight jacket with good airflow for its apparent volume. Stretch fleece around the armpits ensures freedom of movement and is suitable for active wear, even during long periods of activity. Its versatility is another appealing feature of this model.
Best cost-effective fleece jacket: Rab Nexus Hoody / Mont-bell Trail Action Parka
With fleece becoming so popular, it's true that there are plenty of affordable options available. Here, we're not simply looking for low-cost models, but rather for truly exceptional value, offering performance at a price that will have you wondering, "This performance at this price?" The top choice is the Rab Nexus Hoody . Rab's signature, consistently excellent three-dimensional cut provides a comfortable fit and ease of movement, a level of quality you wouldn't expect for the price. The unique Thermic™ material, with just the right thickness, offers excellent stretch, and the textured back ensures breathability, making it a highly functional piece for all-season activewear. The design is also outstanding, and if you can get it at this price, you'll definitely want one.
If you're only looking for functionality, you can't go wrong with the Mont-Bell Trail Action Parka
However, if you look at functionality and price alone, honestly, no one can beat Montbell. Montbell fleece is honestly very high quality, but because the price is always set at a level that doesn't match the quality, it tends to go unnoticed. However, Montbell fleece is truly impressive in both quality and variety. If your style matches, you won't find a better bargain
Vest/Outdoor Fleece Jacket that Can Also Be Used as an Outerwear: Patagonia R1 Tech Face Hoody
Finally, we have the best fleece model that has added functionality that makes it convenient to wear as an outer layer. The advantage of this type of outer layer fleece is that it provides comfortable warmth and ease of movement that windshells and softshells don't, while also providing moderate protection from wind and rain. It is easier to move around in and more comfortable to wear than active insulation with a shell
I was equally impressed with all the best candidates in this category, but ultimately I settled on the pioneer of this genre, the Patagonia R1 Techface Hoody . The deciding factor was its balance. The durable water-repellent (DWR) treated hard face outer fabric repels light rain, snow, and wind, and is extremely tough, resisting pilling even when wading through bushwhacking or coming into contact with rocky surfaces. The lining also has a textured grid structure for excellent breathability. While the other candidates offer a fair amount of warmth, I personally prefer this jacket for its understated warmth that doesn't make you feel unnecessarily hot (there's also the R2 Techface Hoody ).
How to choose: What is fleece and when, where and how to wear it?
The birth of fleece
Until the 1970s, wool sweaters were the main source of cold weather clothing for mountain climbers. However, as you know, while wool has sufficient insulation properties, it becomes heavy when wet, is slow to dry, is itchy, and is difficult to care for. In addition, the raw materials must be sourced from animals, so it was far from satisfactory
To solve this problem, legendary climber and Patagonia founder Yvon Chouinard searched for a new material to replace wool, eventually coming across a synthetic fiber (polyester) pile sweater. After several iterations in collaboration with Malden Mills (now Polartec), the legendary Synchilla Snap -T fleece .
Characteristics of fleece (strengths and weaknesses)
Fleece, generally a woven polyester (synthetic fiber) fabric that has been brushed to ensure loft, was significantly lighter than cotton or wool yet offered the same level of warmth as wool, was highly breathable and moisture-wicking, retained its warmth even when wet, was quick-drying because the fibers themselves absorbed water, was durable, and was easy to care for as it could be washed in a washing machine , making it the ideal insulating material for outdoor use at the time.Fleece is also non-itchy, comfortable to the touch, and can be made in every imaginable color and pattern, making it excellent for everyday wear, allowing you to stay as comfortable in the field as you would in a sofa.
However, fleece does have its weaknesses. For example, it is still heavier and bulkier than down . It also generally lacks windproofing . And while it's highly breathable, thick fleece fabrics can easily become stuffy during exercise. It's also prone to pilling after washing, and it's prone to developing odors due to sebum stains . It's also prone to static electricity, attracting lint, pet hair, and dust . It's also vulnerable to fire, making it flammable if worn near a campfire
Although not as bad as it used to be, repeated washing can still cause pilling, and the lint and dust clinging to the ends of the fibers can be difficult to remove
For reference, we have summarized a comparison of winter clothing made from different materials by feature. Of course, performance will vary greatly depending on the individual characteristics of each product, the thickness of the fabric, and the quality and amount of padding, so please use this as a guide only
| kinds | wool sweater | Fleecewear | Down insulation | Synthetic insulation (emphasis on heat retention) | Active Insulation (synthetic insulation for activewear) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Insulation per weight | ◯ | ◯ | ◎ | ◯ | △ |
| Compactness | × | △ | ◎ | ◯ | ◯ |
| Breathable and quick-drying | △ | ◯ | × | △ | ◎ |
| Resistance to wetting | △ | ◎ | × | ◎ | ◯ |
| Comfort | ◯ | ◎ | ◎ | ◯ | △ |
| Ease of movement | ◯ | ◎ | △ | ◯ | ◎ |
| Windproof | △ | △ | ◎ | ◎ | △ |
| Easy to care for | △ | ◎ | △ | ◎ | ◎ |
So what is the smartest way to wear fleece and how?
So far, we have learned that fleece is generally warm, comfortable to wear, easy to move in, resistant to getting wet, and most importantly, easy to care for, making it a versatile material. However, the more you increase its heat retention, the more bulky it tends to become, and it also has the weakness of being vulnerable to wind. However, on the other hand, if you can overcome these drawbacks, it is still a well-balanced and comfortable cold weather garment. In other words, if you are going to wear fleece,
How to use and wear it in a way that ignores its weaknesses, such as being bulky and vulnerable to wind
If you can do this, you can wear the strongest and most comfortable winter clothing without worrying about the weaknesses of fleece. So, now that we have a clear outline of what the best fleece is for mountaineering enthusiasts, we will finally summarize the smart way to choose a fleece that we recommend on this site
How to Choose: 5 Things to Check to Choose the Best Fleece
Point 1: Heat retention (thickness of fleece fabric)
Since fleece is a cold weather garment, the most important thing is to choose one with the appropriate heat retention performance for your purpose
Taking Polartec's outdoor fleece products, which are probably the most widely used, as an example, fleece thickness (weight) is basically divided into three or four levels based on the weight per unit. First, when choosing a product, you should start by being aware of the differences between these four weight levels: micro (or) lightweight, midweight, and heavyweight
1. Micro (or) lightweight (less than 200 g/m2)
Image: polartec.com
To put it simply, this is the most practical volume for a fleece to use in the mountains. If you are thinking about buying a fleece for the mountains, you should first consider this thickness
Lightweight fleece, as the name suggests, is thin. Of course, because it's thin, it's light, so it's definitely great for mountain climbing. It's also highly breathable, doesn't overheat the body, and doesn't restrict movement. However, it doesn't have the highest level of heat retention
Among lightweight materials, the type known as "microfleece" is often a high-quality model made with particularly fine and soft yarn. It is lightweight yet provides excellent insulation, is easy to move in, and has an addictively smooth surface
Lightweight fleece has just the right amount of warmth to keep your skin cool during outdoor activities that involve repeated stops and starts, without overheating or cooling you down. Some manufacturers refer to this type of fleece as "regulator fleece." Coupled with the basic balance, I think there are many models that are extremely easy to use all year round
The basic way to wear it is as a mid-layer under a rain jacket or outer layer. It is perfect for a wide range of activities, from hiking and fastpacking to running and cycling, in chilly weather from early spring to early winter
2. Midweight (200-300 g/m²)
Image: polartec.com
As the name suggests, this is a medium-weight fleece. It has better heat retention than lightweight fleece, so it can be worn not only as a mid-layer but also as an outer layer, making it a very versatile fleece
However, from my own experience, there are cases where a "medium-weight" fleece is not enough to keep you warm while you're out and about, and also when you're at the tent site, so you need to be careful. If it's too voluminous, you'll feel too hot while you're out and about, and if it's not voluminous enough, you might end up with cold nights
Because of this difficulty, I personally rarely choose a fleece jacket of this volume unless I am very particular and confident about it. It is best worn as a mid-layer in particularly cold seasons, as a cold weather jacket for gentle hikes in early spring or autumn/winter, or worn around town
3. Heavyweight (300 g/m² or more)
Image: polartec.com
Heavyweight fleece is the thickest, fluffiest, and most voluminous. Naturally, it has the best heat retention, plus it's fluffy and comfortable to wear, and it's also fairly windproof. On the other hand, it makes it harder for moisture to escape from the garment, which makes it less suitable as a mid-layer and more likely to be worn as an outer layer. Of course, it's also the worst in terms of weight and portability
Such a heavy weight is ideal for people who spend all day relaxing in winter mountain huts or base camps, or for people looking for a comfortable outer layer to wear in town, but if you're using it for hiking or other activities where you'll be moving around and portability is important, I think you can honestly say that it's not necessary
Point 2: Additional features (enhancing strengths and covering weaknesses)
There are now many different types of fleece available, and most are processed to suit the purpose, such as what the fabric will be used for and the type of activity
Malden Mills, the company that developed fleece, made the bold decision not to patent the fabric at the time, which led to fleece becoming popular in an instant, and to the present day, fleece has continued to evolve and diversify
For example, evolution has been directed towards improving fleece's strengths, such as greater comfort and warmth, or towards making up for its weaknesses in order to create a more perfect winter garment. In that sense, we have discussed the basic advantages and disadvantages of fleece, but in fact, over the past 50 years or so, many models have appeared that overcome the many problems that early fleece had
In other words, the key to choosing the perfect fleece for us today is to consider the basic characteristics of fleece and then choose a model that best suits our needs and incorporates the most cutting-edge features.So, from here on, we will cover the important additional features that have recently appeared in outdoor fleeces
1. More breathable fleece
With the popularity of short, high-intensity outdoor activities such as trail running and fastpacking these days, there is a demand for "higher breathability (quick-drying)" in any clothing. Staying dry even when sweating profusely is also a trend in cutting-edge fleece these days
Image: polartec.com
A prime example of a fleece that achieves this excellent breathability grid fleece , which has moderate heat retention but is lightweight and compact, and the fine grid (or border) grooves running throughout the lining allow air to pass through, making it a fleece material that is both thin, light, and breathable.
the Patagonia R1 Air , which uses a unique hollow fiber and wavy uneven structure to improve lightness, breathability, and quick-drying properties without sacrificing warmth .
2. Lighter, warmer fleece
Since fleece is a cold weather garment, the pursuit of warmth is paramount. Warmer fleece jackets generally use thicker fabrics or a fluffy fabric similar to shorn sheep's wool called boa fleece (shearling fleece, sherpa fleece), but in this case, you have to be prepared for a certain amount of weight and volume, so they are mostly used as outerwear for everyday use. Unfortunately, when it comes to choosing a fleece for outdoor activities, it's hard to find a good fit
However, as you would expect from a material that has undergone years of research and development, the story doesn't end there. There are also cutting-edge fleece fabrics that not only increase warmth but also maintain their strength of lightness. One of the most representative technologies "high-loft fleece ," which has a fluffy, fur-like feel.
The insulating effect of fleece comes from the small air pockets (loft) created within the fabric that trap body heat, but high-loft fleece maximizes this loft (while keeping weight down) by brushing the long pile, maximizing the air pockets (= insulating effect). And as you'll see when you try it on, high-loft fleece isn't just warm; the fluffy, smooth texture of the fabric is incredibly comfortable. It's so comfortable you'll become addicted to it
Teijin "AERO CAPSULE®"
Another small detail that you might miss if you're not paying attention is that if the fleece fabric hollow yarn , it's worth paying attention to. Hollow yarn, as the name suggests, is a processed yarn that has a hollow interior, which not only allows air to be trapped in the hollow parts of the fiber, but also makes the fleece lighter.
I have actually tried out a few of them in the past, and although they certainly look the same as regular fleece, they are noticeably lighter and warmer. In recent years, materials and fabrics using hollow fiber technology have been appearing one after another, and this is one technology that we cannot miss in the future
3. More durable fleece
Taking advantage of fleece's sweat-wicking properties, it's not a bad idea to actively use it as an outer layer. However, when doing so, the weakness of the fabric itself becomes a concern with regular fleece. It easily tears if it gets caught on a branch, and it quickly wears out when it comes into contact with a belt or when washed. This is why fleece was developed, with a fleece outer layer that is resistant to abrasion and pilling, and also has a DWR (durable water repellent) finish that makes it resistant to some bad weather. It's perfect for those who want to use it vigorously even on tough mountain climbs without worry. However, keep in mind that it does have a slight weight disadvantage.
4. Fleece for more mobility
Fleece is generally not a stretchy fabric, so initially it was designed as a loose-fitting winter garment to be worn when it was quiet, and was not intended to be worn during intense exercise
Eventually, in response to growing demand for fleece to be worn during exercise, highly stretchable fleece such as Polartec POWERSTRETCH® PRO™ .
The fabric is a blend of stretchy yarns such as polyurethane, providing a comfortable feel and four-way stretch while maintaining the same warmth, breathability, quick-drying properties, and abrasion resistance. It provides a natural feel even during intense activities. The perfect fit makes you want to wear it all day, even when not doing strenuous exercise
5. More comfortable fleece
Fleece was originally created as an alternative to wool for cold weather clothing, but recently, have emerged that combine materials with natural fibers such as wool to make up for the weaknesses of fleece
The good thing about natural materials such as wool is not that they have any outstanding functionality, but rather, simply put, that they have a balanced range of functions that we animals need to maintain our comfort
Especially during exercise, when the body becomes too hot and sweating occurs, traditional 100% polyester fabrics cool the skin surface rapidly, making you feel cold. However, when blended with wool, the natural moisture absorption and release properties of the fabric help to mitigate temperature changes on the skin surface, preventing a sudden drop in body temperature and the body feeling chilled after exercise. While polyester functions digitally, either as a "0 or 1," wool functions analogically. Neither is necessarily correct, but it is important to use these differences appropriately depending on the application, purpose, and season
In addition, if wool can successfully add comfort that synthetic fibers lack, such as natural antibacterial and deodorizing properties and a natural feel, fleece will likely become an even more flawless form of cold weather clothing than ever before
6. Windproof fleece
If you want the comfort of fleece and the convenience of using it as an outer layer, you'll inevitably want a fleece jacket that blocks the wind. Naturally, products with this functionality have been created up until now. Windproofing mechanisms include laminating a windproof membrane between layers of fleece fabric, as well as using a tight knit structure that blocks wind
However, while these technologies are certainly available, the truth is that there are now many excellent options for mid-layers and shell layers, so to be honest, using a fleece jacket as an outer layer is not really recommended unless you have a very good reason. In fact, outdoor brands are increasingly releasing fewer windproof fleece products of this type these days
7. Hybrid fleece with a balanced set of essential features
Of course, none of the various additional functions and features we've talked about so far are available in just one item. The last thing to check is whether there are any hybrid products that skillfully combine these functions to suit the application and purpose
For example, Patagonia's R2 fleece , you can maximize the effectiveness while minimizing weight.
There are also the NORRONA lyngen hiloflex100 Jacket , which uses a windproof and water-repellent soft shell material and fleece on both sides in the areas that are exposed to the wind, and only grid fleece on the back where heat needs to be released efficiently (although perhaps this is now more of a soft shell jacket than a fleece jacket?).
Models that use fleece in this hybrid way are often made for specific activities. Rather than looking for an all-rounder that can be used for a variety of purposes, they are likely to be the perfect piece of clothing for people who have a specific use in mind. I personally love this type of fleece, and using multiple models makes me really appreciate the potential and value of fleece
Point 3: Style (design)
Jackets, pullovers, hoodies, vests... Fleece has become so popular among the general public that it is now common to see fleece in a variety of styles (designs). However, in addition to personal preference, the type that is best suited to different activities and purposes, such as mountain climbing, hiking, running, and cycling, will vary slightly
Of course, there is no single answer, but if you are somewhat aware of what type of fleece is best for what situation, you should be able to avoid regrets later. It depends on the season and whether you are sensitive to heat or cold, but looking back at my own experience, I choose my style by considering the following:
Vest (full zip)
- No sleeves so it doesn't restrict upper body movement
- The heat retention is not that great
- Windproofing is not expected
- Wear it over a base layer for a wide range of activities, from regular hiking to winter fastpacking and high-energy activities like running. If it's too hot, you don't need an outer layer
- Recently, fleece vest models for active use have become more popular due to the ease of use of vests made with other padding materials, so there may not be many realistic options available
Pullover (usually 1/4 zip)
- Lightweight as it has no zippers or pockets
- It's difficult to put on and take off, so it's best to wear something thin so you can wear it all the time
- It is best to use fabric that emphasizes breathability so that you don't feel uncomfortable even if you wear it for a long time and move around vigorously
- From autumn onwards, wear it as a mid-layer when you need extra warmth over your base layer when hiking on cold days. It is not intended that you will need to take it off or on
Jacket (full zip)
- Basically the same idea as a pullover
- It is a little heavy and bulky due to the pockets and zippers
- It's easy to put on and take off, and can also be used as an outer layer, making it more versatile
- It can be used as a mid-layer when a base layer is not warm enough, as an outer layer during intense activities in cool seasons, or as a mid-layer or outer layer for mild outdoor activities such as camping or traveling
With or without a hood?
A hood increases warmth and can protect you from some wind and rain, but more isn't always better. As I previously wrote in my article on how to choose winter clothing, it's important to consider the entire layering rather than just the jacket itself
While being mindful of not overlapping too much among the three layers of base layer, mid-layer, and outer layer, you should decide based on the season and your overall outfit whether a hood on your outer layer will be sufficient, whether you want to add a fleece hood for added warmth, or whether you don't need a hood because you'll be covering your head with a beanie or something similar
Point 4: Zipper, pocket, hem, thumb loop
Although fleece jackets are often worn as an inner layer, there are situations where they can also be used as outerwear. So, apart from the fabric material and design, I'd like to summarize some points to keep in mind when choosing a fleece jacket, based on my own experience, about what functions (parts) would be best depending on the purpose
zipper
Even if it's a pullover type, most fleeces have a zipper. This is because opening the neck allows for better ventilation, and a full zipper allows for maximum ventilation, but it also makes the jacket heavier and bulkier. In terms of striking a good balance, a 1/4 (or 1/2) zipper is recommended for use as a mid-layer
Pockets are certainly useful, but having too many unnecessarily can lead to increased weight. Pockets are almost essential for outerwear fleece, but if you're only going to use it as a mid-layer, some people don't need hand warmer pockets on either side. Personally, I can't give up a zippered chest pocket, no matter what type of fleece I wear. Although it's small, it can hold small items like a lighter, cards, glasses cleaner, and supplements
Sleeves, hem, neck
These well-made fleece jackets feature stretch fabric at the cuffs, hood, and hem, and some models even have adjustable drawcords at the hood and waist to improve the fit, prevent it from slipping up, and seal in warmth
Some fleece jackets also have thumb loops on the cuffs. These are often found in models designed for technical activities like rock climbing and backcountry skiing, and are popular because they keep your hands warm like gloves and prevent the sleeves from riding up when layering outerwear. However, not having thumb loops is not a fatal flaw, so it's a matter of personal preference. However, jackets with thumb loops tend to have longer sleeves, so be aware that they may not fit properly if you don't want to use thumb loops
Point 5: Sustainable
As mentioned at the beginning, early fleece was made from petroleum-based synthetic fibers. While fleece made from virgin polyester wasn't a big problem in the early days, when environmental awareness was less prevalent than it is today, it soon became an unavoidable issue for Patagonia, a company that takes sustainability seriously. Patagonia quickly began working to improve the situation, and in 1993 released products made from recycled polyester fleece
Most polyester fleece has now been replaced with recycled materials, and fleece products made from biodegradable fibers such as merino wool are also now available
Recently, attention has been drawn not only to the environmental impact of the material itself, but also to the adverse effects of the microfibers (microplastics) emitted from fleece on marine life, and Polartec® Power Air™, .
This trend has certainly grown in recent years, and whether you like it or not, whether you are highly conscious or not, new products you will encounter in the future will undoubtedly be more and more sustainability-conscious. Whether a product is designed with sustainability in mind, both in terms of cutting-edge technological trends and as an environmental initiative that individuals can participate in, will likely become an important point to consider going forward
summary
I've tried out a variety of fleeces this winter, and it's amazing how a high-quality model can offer such a good balance of elements like "thinness, lightness, warmth, comfort, breathability, and ease of care." All things considered, I feel it has great potential in terms of overall ease of use
If you think fleece is somehow old-fashioned, why not take a look at this article and experience the latest in fleece?
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[Fall/Winter 2025] We've selected the best synthetic insulation for fall/winter outdoor activities from approximately 200 models, and here are some tips on how to choose the right one
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[Fall/Winter 2025] Down? Synthetic? Fleece? The key to comfortable layering is choosing the right material. The best mid-layers for mountaineering (cold weather gear) by type, and tips for choosing the right one
Comparison Review: The Best Synthetic Insulated Jackets This Winter