A fleece jacket is essential to a complete layering system when conditions turn wet and cold. Fleece is the ultimate hiking and backpacking material: it’s warm, comfortable, and dries quickly. Our team of professional gear testers put over 30 of the most promising models on the market through the wringer, from thru-hikes to day trips, to determine the best picks, from soft lounge-worthy jackets to top-performing technical layers for inclement weather.
Remember that a complete layering system also includes a high-quality rain jacket. If you prefer a lighter option, there are plenty of top-tier down jackets to choose from, but we also have you covered for seriously cold weather with our winter jackets for women and men recommendations.
Quick Picks for Fleece Jackets
Take a quick peek at these top fleece jackets, or keep scrolling to explore our full list with detailed reviews below.
Best Fleece Jacket Overall: Patagonia Better Sweater Men’s ($159) / Women’s ($159)
Best Classic Fleece: The North Face Denali Fleece Men’s ($180) / Women’s ($180)
Recycled, Deadstock Limited Edition Fleece: Cotopaxi Teca Fleece Full-Zip Jacket Men’s ($120) / Women’s ($120)
Warm & Stylish Fleece for Everyday Use: KUHL Interceptr Men’s ($139)
Comfortable, Lightweight & Durable Fleece: Patagonia Lightweight Synchilla Snap-T Men’s ($149) / Women’s ($149)
Best Minimalist Fleece: Eddie Bauer Super Sevens Fleece Hoodie Men’s ($99) / Women’s ($99)
Comfortable & Warm Fleece with a Flattering Fit: Arc’teryx Kyanite Hoodie Men’s ($200) / Women’s ($200)
Best Budget Fleece: Columbia Steens Mountain 2.0 Men’s ($46) / Benton Springs Women’s ($46)
Super Soft & Warm Hoodie Fleece: REI Flash Hyperstretch Men’s ($99) / Women’s ($99)
Most Breathable Fleece: Outdoor Research Vigor Men’s ($99) / Women’s ($99)
Most Versatile Fleece: Patagonia R1 Air Men’s ($129) / Women’s ($129)
What’s New
We’ve been testing fleece jackets in chilly conditions to find the top performers for men and women – and we’ve overhauled our list in time for chilly weather.
- The REI Flash Hyperstretch (Men’s / Women’s) is our top choice when it comes to a soft, stretchy fleece with a cozy hood, boxier fit, and excellent warmth.
Fleece Jackets Overall Testing Scores
Patagonia Better Sweater
Best Fleece Jacket Overall
CleverHiker Rating: 81.3
Price: $159
Measured Weight: 1 lb. 6 oz.(Men’s M)
Fleece Weight: Mid-heavyweight
Pros
- Very warm
- Durable
- Stylish
- Good value
- Notably comfy/warm hand pockets
- Inclusive sizing
Cons
- A bit heavy and bulky for backcountry adventures
- Not as breathable as some
A fleece is like a sort of grown-up superhero cape. When you have it on, you just feel invincible to the elements. We feel that way whenever we throw on the Patagonia Better Sweater (men’s / women’s)fleece. If you’re looking for a stylish and comfortable fleece jacket that will last a long time, we can’t recommend it highly enough. This one is an Editor’s Pick, thanks to its burly construction, attention to detail, and athletic fit.
This dense jacket is super warm, and the hand pockets are soft on the inside and thick on the outside to keep your hands cozy. We can’t emphasize enough how well the Better Sweater holds up over time – one of our staff has been wearing hers for over a decade, and it’s still going strong! During our test in Aspen Snowmass this fall, it was the perfect companion to keep us warm as we peeped high alpine foliage.
The Better Sweater is hands-down our favorite fleece jacket for casual use. It’s a phenomenal value for the money, and it will undoubtedly become one of your closet’s most worn pieces. The Better Sweater is also available as a slightly more affordable Quarter-Zip (men’s / women’s).
The North Face Denali Fleece
Best Classic Fleece
CleverHiker Rating: 78
Price: $180
Measured Weight: 1 lb. 3.7 oz.(Men’s M)
Fleece Weight: Heavyweight
Pros
- Very warm
- Comfortable
- Useful variety of zippered pockets
- Inclusive sizing
- Many colorways
Cons
- A bit heavy for backcountry adventures
- Not as breathable as some
The North Face Retro Denali Jacket (men’s / women’s) is a warm and very comfortable option that is heavier than other versions we tested. This style originated in the climbing world, but it works just as well for hikes. Thanks to the soft, heavyweight construction, it is a good go-to fleece that hits high marks for us with warmth, comfort, and features. Specifically, we like that there are lots of pockets in the Denali, along with zippered ventilation and a cinch on the waist of the fleece. This iconic fleece is a good-looking option for home and the hills. For these reasons, we named this our Best Classic Fleece.
Cotopaxi Teca Fleece
Best Recycled, Deadstock Limited Edition Fleece
CleverHiker Rating: 78.3
Price: $120
Measured Weight: 12.9 oz.(Men’s M)
Fleece Weight: Mid-heavyweight
Pros
- Warm
- Good value
- Light weight for the volume
- Colorful
- Two large internal drop pockets
Cons
- A bit bulky for backcountry adventures
- Not as breathable as some
- No zippered pockets
Fleeces can have a tendency to all look the same, which is why we like the Cotopaxi Teca Fleece (men’s / women’s), whose bright color schemes jump out from the crowd. The Teca Fleece is our pick for the best recycled, deadstock limited edition fleece. The Teca fleece is made from recycled fleece and deadstock polyester taffeta, making it an environmentally friendly fleece that diverts waste from landfills. It is warm, soft, and comfortable and can work well as a warm layer or standalone jacket. We appreciate that a practical fleece can also have some style.
The Cotapaxi Teca Fleece shell is 100% recycled polyester fleece and has a DWR finish. At the same time, it is made without using any PFAS chemicals, which is a big selling point in the outdoor industry as it helps the environment. We tested this on cold rainy days in the mountains of Washington and found it worked great, from hiking along the Cle Elum River to lounching on the back patio for happy hour. We basically lived in this fleece and found very few drawbacks, aside from its bulk and heft, which is not as good for longer hikes or backpacking trips. If you want extra coverage, Teca comes in a hooded option (men’s / women’s)
KUHL Interceptr
Warm & Stylish Fleece for Everyday Use
CleverHiker Rating: 72.8
Price: $139
Measured Weight: 1 lb. 3.2 oz.(Men’s M)
Fleece Weight: Heavyweight
Pros
- Warm
- Stylish
- Durable
- Good value
- Easy to Layer
Cons
- Heavy and bulky for backcountry adventures
- Less breathable than some
The KUHL Interceptr Jacket is a great casual option for those who want to dress comfortably and have some street style at the same time. The athletic fit, articulated sleeves, and zippered pockets are handsome and technical. This comes at a cost in the form of added weight. Its heft and impressive warmth are also better suited for everyday use. If it gets really stormy, the Interceptr also layers nicely under a winter coat or a rain jacket. The articulated sleeves make movement easy. Its warmth and breathability come from a 305 g Alpaca fabric for the core, while 210 g Kashmira side panels provide additional core warmth and enhance breathability without adding bulk. KUHL also incorporates Dynamik stitching to create low-profile seams.
While it doesn’t pack down as small as some others and is slightly heavier, the KUHL Interceptr remains a favorite for its all-around performance and great value compared to similar full-zip jackets. Its lower price tag makes it easy to love and likely to see plenty of use. The Interceptr is also available in Quarter-Zip and a Vest, which we love for shoulder season.
Patagonia Lightweight Synchilla Snap-T
Comfortable, Lightweight, & Durable Fleece
CleverHiker Rating: 72.5
Price: $149
Measured Weight: 13.2 oz.(Men’s M)
Fleece Weight: Lightweight
Pros
- Comfortable
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Great value
- Inclusive sizng
Cons
- A bit bulky for backcountry use
- Loose fit can be a bit tricky to layer
The Patagonia Lightweight Synchilla Snap-T (men’s / women’s) is an incredibly comfortable pullover with an iconic style that’s remained unchanged since the 1980s. It’s made with quality, double-sided, lightweight, and durable fleece. Plus, it has super comfy spandex-trimmed wrist cuffs and hem to trap heat and help it hold its shape. The slightly oversized fit and funky, unique colorways give the Synchilla a retro look and make it extra cozy and warm – so it’s become our go-to for relaxing and nights around the campfire. This fleece costs more than some others, but Patagonia clothing lasts for a really long time, so it’s worth every penny.
This jacket is like wrapping yourself in a large fuzzy blanket but with functionality—a partial snap closure designed for multi-sport use and an anti-pilling recycled polyester finish for durability. The fleece weighs slightly more than some others, at just over 13 ounces, but it is still light enough for shorter hikes. From cool fall walks around the neighborhood in the evening to chilling by a campfire at high-altitude campsites, the Patagonia Synchilla Snap is one of our favorites for all occasions.
Eddie Bauer Super Sevens
Best Minimalist Fleece
CleverHiker Rating: 72
Price: $99
Measured Weight: 4.9 oz.(Men’s M)
Fleece Weight: Ultralight
Pros
- Very ultralight
- Highly breathable
- Quick-drying
- Easy to layer
- Comfortable
- Hoodie Design
Cons
- Not as warm as some
- Not as durable as some
- No zipper / pull-on only
The Eddie Bauer Super Sevens Fleece Pullover (men’s / women’s) is the ultimate light and breathable midlayer. It features alternating bands of fuzzy polyester and airy, open weave for the perfect combination of warmth and breathability when working up a sweat. We love how easy it is to layer this thin fleece under a windbreaker or rain jacket to suit various conditions. And it’s ultralight, weighing in at just 4.9 oz, so it’s excellent for backpacking. For those looking for a warm, comfortable, and featherlight fleece, this Eddie Bauer model is a slam dunk.
The ultralight Fleece Hoodie is part of Eddie Bauer’s Super Sevens 3-Piece set, which includes the Super Sevens Rain Jacket and Super Sevens Wind Jacket. The combined set of all three weighs just above 16 ounces, which is impressive for a full-layer system. Of the three, we find the fleece the most practical as it provides the most warmth while remaining breathable. Eddie Bauer built this fleece with longer-distance backpacking and multi-day climbing trips in mind. At the same time, since it does so well for those activities, it is versatile enough for almost any outdoor activity or adventure.
Arc’teryx Kyanite Fleece Hoodie
Comfortable & Warm Fleece with a Flattering Fit
CleverHiker Rating: 69.8
Price: $200
Measured Weight: 15 oz.(Men’s M)
Fleece Weight: Midweight
Pros
- Very warm
- Stretchy
- Breathable
- Lightweight
- Quick-drying
- Easy to layer
- Excellent comfort
- Good mobility
Cons
- Expensive
- Slim fit isn't for everyone
- Bulky packed size
- Rigid handwarmer pockets
The Arc’teryx Kyanite (men’s / women’s) sets the bar very high in terms of streamlined, stylish comfort and unrivaled craftsmanship. This premium fleece jacket is comfortable enough to wear for relaxing evenings, but it’s also a highly versatile layering piece when adventuring in damp, chilly conditions. The Kyanite is one of the warmest fleeces we tested, and it works great as an outer layer in mild weather, making it an outstanding choice for any inclement storm. If you’ve got the extra money to spend, the Kyanite’s attractive looks and next-level performance are worth the bump in cost.
The Arc’teryx Kyanite standout feature is the Polartec Power Stretch Pro material used to build this model. It has a highly durable nylon face, making it strong enough for the toughest hikes. Its moisture-wicking brushed polyester interior is soft on the skin. Thanks to the four-way stretch textile that uses articulated patterning, you won’t feel the jacket tug when you’re on the move. The collar, cuff, and even hem of the fleece are made using the durable Tanica stretch fabric, helping keep the fleece in place while hiking.
Columbia Steens Mountain 2.0 / Benton Springs
Best Budget Fleece
CleverHiker Rating: 68.5
Price: $46
Measured Weight: 1 lb. 3.2 oz.(Men’s M)
Fleece Weight: Mid-heavyweight
Pros
- Affordable
- Quick-drying
- Easy to layer
- Lots of color and size options available
- Inclusive sizing
Cons
- Not as warm as some
- On the bulky side for backcountry use
- Not as durable as some
We’ve been wearing the Columbia Steens Mountain 2.0 (men’s) and Benton Springs (women’s) jackets for decades and love their classic style and affordable price tag. These fleeces are reliable, comfortable, and warm, plus they come in a ton of sizes and color choices, so it’s easy to find one that suits you. The Steens Mountain/Benton Springs jackets aren’t quite as packable or performance-oriented as some, but they’re still excellent for work, car camping, day trips, and everyday wear. We’ve also used them for cold-weather backcountry trips with success. Look no further if you’re looking for a great all-around fleece jacket that won’t break the bank.
The Columbia Steens Mountain Full Zip 2.0 Fleece Jacket shined in the comfort category, thanks to the ultra-soft 100% polyester MTR filament fleece that makes up this jacket. It is considered a classic fit fleece that is true to size, so it is not too tight or restrictive. The design includes a collared neck and zippered closure, that keeps you warm and comfortable. We enjoyed testing this in the mountains or trail but found it equally enjoyable to wear around town too.
REI Flash Hyperstretch
Super Soft & Warm Hoodie Fleece
CleverHiker Rating: 69
Price: $159
Measured Weight: 13 oz.(Men’s M)
Fleece Weight: Lightweight
Pros
- Lightweight
- Highly breathable
- Quick-drying
- Easy to layer
- Inclusive sizing
Cons
- Not as warm as some
- Not as durable as some
If top-notch comfort and excellent value are what you’re after, the REI Flash Hyperstretch (men’s / women’s) is pretty tough to beat. It’s made with super soft stretch fleece with an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio. The Hyperstretch Jacket is more than capable in the backcountry, and we’ve been pleased with its breathability on challenging cold-weather hikes. We also love wearing this Editor’s Pick in the frontcountry.
The fit isn’t quite as streamlined and stylish as the similar Arc’teryx Kyanite, but the Hyperstretch Jacket is one of the best values on the market for a technical fleece, and we love the cozy hood when the wind picks up. We tested this on some crisp fall morning hikes in North Park, Colorado, and found it to be the ideal warmth and weight for an active day on the trail.
Outdoor Research Vigor
Most Breathable Fleece
CleverHiker Rating: 68
Price: $120
Measured Weight: 12.9 oz.(Men’s M)
Fleece Weight: Lightweight
Pros
- Affordable (especially for technical wear)
- Lightweight
- Highly breathable
- Quick-drying
- Easy to layer
- Good mobility
Cons
- Not as warm as some
The Outdoor Research Vigor (men’s / women’s) is one of our favorite fleece jackets to wear when conditions are chilly, but we’re likely to break a sweat. It’s the lightest jacket on our list, so when it comes to high-output activities, we reach for the Vigor. Its quick-drying grid fleece provides the perfect amount of warmth and airflow to keep you comfortable even while chugging uphill. Essentially, the Vigor is a beefed-up baselayer, so it’s a great go-to for everything from hiking to snowsports – anything that requires constant thermoregulation. The price of the Vigor is excellent too, with comparable fleeces costing significantly more. We recommend the Vigor to anyone looking to score a great deal on a versatile, high-performance jacket for their active lifestyle. The Vigor is also available as a Quarter-Zip (men’s / women’s) version.
Patagonia R1 Air Zip-Neck Pullover
Most Versatile Fleece
CleverHiker Rating: 70.5
Price: $129
Measured Weight: 10.2 oz.(Men’s M)
Fleece Weight: Lightweight
Pros
- Lightweight
- Highly breathable
- Quick-drying
- Easy to layer
- Odor-control treatment
- Inclusive sizing
Cons
- Not as warm as some
- Not as durable as some
The Patagonia R1 Air (men’s / women’s) is great for active people looking for a jacket with a good balance of warmth and low weight. Its zig-zag-patterned fabric is super soft, breathable, and comfortable, and it lets excess heat escape to thermoregulate. This makes it incredibly versatile and comfortable for the backcountry or casual use when you’re closer to home.
We tend to pack the compact and lightweight Patagonia R1 Air on almost every backcountry adventure, from deserts to high alpine environments. It is the go-to layer when temperatures are low, but energy output is high. It is not the warmest on the list, but it is ideal for technical activities.
We recommend the R1 Air to those who want a single high-quality fleece they can use for pretty much any occasion—whether walking the dog through the neighborhood or hiking through a cold, misty afternoon on a fall backpacking trip. The R1 Air is also available as a full-zip hoodie (men’s / women’s).
Product Comparison Table
| oSort | Product | Price | Measured Weight | Fleece Weight | Hood | Warmth | Comfort | Durability | Weight/Packed Size | Features | 0 |
Patagonia Better Sweater View Men's View Women's 
|
$159 | 1 lb. 6 oz. (Men’s M) | Mid-heavyweight | No hood | 8 | 9 | 8.5 | 5.5 | 8 | 1 |
The North Face Denali Fleece View Men's View Women's |
$180 | 1 lb. 3.7 oz. (Men’s M) | Heavyweight | No hood | 9 | 8.5 | 6 | 5 | 7 | 2 |
Cotopaxi Teca Fleece View Men's View Women's |
$120 | 12.9 oz. (Men’s M) | Mid-heavyweight | No hood | 8.5 | 8.5 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 3 |
KUHL Interceptr View At REI View At Backcountry |
$139 | 1 lb. 3.2 oz. (Men’s M) | Heavyweight | No hood | 8 | 6.5 | 7.5 | 6 | 8 | 4 |
Patagonia Lightweight Synchilla Snap-T View Men's View Women's |
$149 | 13.2 oz. (Men’s M) | Lightweight | No hood | 7.5 | 8 | 6.5 | 5 | 7.5 | 5 |
Eddie Bauer Super Sevens View Men's View Women's 
|
$99 | 4.9 oz. (Men’s M) | Ultralight | Hood | 7 | 7 | 7 | 10 | 6 | 6 |
Arc’teryx Kyanite Fleece Hoodie View Men's View Women's
|
$200 | 15 oz. (Men’s M) | Midweight | Hood | 7 | 7 | 6.5 | 8.5 | 6 | 7 |
Columbia Steens Mountain 2.0 / Benton Springs View Men's View Women's
|
$46 | 1 lb. 3.2 oz. (Men’s M) | Mid-heavyweight | No hood | 7 | 7.5 | 7 | 5 | 6 | 8 |
REI Flash Hyperstretch View Men's View Women's
|
$159 | 13 oz. (Men’s M) | Lightweight | Hood | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 7 | 9 |
Outdoor Research Vigor View Men's View Women's |
$120 | 12.9 oz. (Men’s M) | Lightweight | Hood | 7 | 6.5 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 10 |
Patagonia R1 Air Zip-Neck Pullover View Men's View Women's |
$129 | 10.2 oz. (Men’s M) | Lightweight | No hood | 6.5 | 8 | 6.5 | 7.5 | 6.5 |
|---|
How We Test & Methodology
We test fleece jackets using five metrics: warmth, comfort, weight, durability, and features. We test fleeces for miles on hikes, traveling through airports, and four-wheeling up dirt roads.
WARMTH
We hiked in these jackets in conditions ranging from a cool fall morning to on top of a snowy mountain in the frigid cold to see how they stand up to the elements. In addition, we researched and talked to experts about the materials, weight, and technology used to design these layers. For a climate controlled cold environment, we tested the warmth in a walk-in freezer.
COMFORT
We tested these comfort of each models, both in the outdoors and during everyday activities. On hikes in different weather and terrain, we checked for any restriction in the chest and shoulders, ensuring they moved easily with our movement. At home andfux on casual walks, we evaluated how comfortable they felt over long periods. We also assessed their fit during more dynamic movements, like scrambling over rocks, and how well they handled the added tension of a pack with a waist belt.
WEIGHT & PACKED SIZE
Aside from the measured weight, we assessed how the weight wore on the body. We also compressed each model to see how they compressed into a backpack. Lighter fleeces packed down better but offer less warmth and durability.
DURABILITY
Durability of apparel is often a dance between material/construction quality with weight. We examined the material used to make each option. On trail, we noted how they withstood with branches or trees scraping against them. We also washed these jackets to see how well they hold up to a spin cycle, and what, if any, special accommodations are required for cleaning.
FEATURES
Features such as hoods, pockets – both size and location –, along with ventilation holes or zippers and fleece collars or thumb loops make a simple layer unique. Features on mid-layers are nice for storage and additional comfort and warmth but will add weight.
Why Trust CleverHiker
Gear Analyst David Young spent the past four years testing gear and hiking across the globe, with a focus on fleece jackets. Based in Colorado, he’s tested fleeces this season across the Rocky Mountains, from chilly mornings in Aspen to hikes along the Grand Tetons. With over 40 Colorado 14’ers under his belt, David knows what makes a fleece perform well in rugged conditions. His extensive testing and work with outdoor industry experts help pinpoint the top fleeces on the market. Together, CleverHiker gear analysts logged over 25,000 miles in fleece to bring you the best options.
Analysis & Results
We rated the best options on the market based on five metrics: warmth, comfort, weight/packability, durability, and features. Read on to find out how they compared in each metric.
VALUE
One of the major factors in purchasing a fleece is the value of the performance you get for your dollar. We’re always evaluating gear that proves itself to be an essential piece of gear, holding up in various conditions over time, with a fair price reflecting its versatility, durability, and performance.
The Patagonia Better Sweater is the best option for a fleece that will last a lifetime. Though it costs more upfront, its seemingly everlasting performance makes it a great value over time. The Columbia Steens Mountain is our favorite budget fleece jacket option, offering great warmth and comfort at a whopping 40% cheaper than the next economical option. While the price is low, the weight is high, and it lacks some extra features other models have. The Outdoor Research Vigor is a favorite lightweight option for a bit more money. The warm yet flexible material works great on a variety of conditions.
WARMTH
We reach for the cozy warmth of a fuzzy at home and on the trail. Ultra-warm fleeces are not usually high-ranking for breathability, packability, or weight. So, the challenge lies in finding fleeces that strike the right balance between warmth and breathability, depending on your needs.
For superior warmth, the North Face Denali, is the top selection in this category. Just know that all that warmth comes with weight and a greedy amount of packspace. Also near the top are the Patagonia Better Sweater and the Cotopaxi Teca Fleece Full-Zip Jacket. Both of these provide next-level warmth on cold hikes. The KUHL Interceptr is also one of our favorites for warmth, especially since it comes in various options, including a vest, which we love for keeping the core warm during shoulder season.
COMFORT
Comfortable fleeces come in all shapes and sizes, from the roomy and stretchy Patagonia Better Sweater to the soft, blanket-feeling North Face Denali. The Better Sweater is comfortable in almost any condition and temperature. We wear it from temperatures in the 30s to a 60-degree sunny day, from drinking a beer on the patio to hiking 14,000-foot peaks. It moves seamlessly with you, and the fabric is comfortable against the skin. The Patagonia Synchilla Snap-T and Cotopaxi Teca Fleece Full-Zip are two other options that we found very comfortable to wear but are better for casual, low-to-no output activities.
DURABILITY
The Patagonia Better Sweater and KUHL Interceptr fleeces top the durability list. Both are constructed using solid material and exceptional quality that have proved to last our testers over not just years but decades of hard hiking, rough rocky trails, and sharp branches. Next up, the REI Hyperstretch and the Arc’teryx Kyanite, both made from Polartec Power Stretch Pro material, make these fleeces strong and stretchy.
WEIGHT & PACKABILITY
The balance between lightweight and warmth is critical on trail. If this layer is headed with you into the backcountry, a lightweight option might save your back, but forgoing too much warmth can be dangerous. The Eddie Bauer Super Sevens takes the top spot in terms of weight at under five ounces. This minimalist, lightweight fleece is ideal for long-distance hikers who want a layer that provides some warmth but is still lighter than a smartphone. In addition, it compresses down into a small ball, making it easy to shed and shove into a pack. The Outdoor Research Vigor and Patagonia R1 Air, at just under 13 ounces, are also thin, very lightweight options. The two are also stretchy and breathable, making them great high-intensity hiking options. Like the Super Sevens, they both pack down into a softball-sized ball and can easily slip into a pack when it warms up on the trail.
FEATURES
Thoughtful details on the construction of fleeces, like zippers, pockets, hoods, thumb loops, or special materials integrated into the fabrics, determined the best features of each model. The Patagonia Better Sweater and KUHL Interceptr both do more regarding features. Notably, the dual side and chest pockets on the KUHL make stashing your cell or wallet while on the trail easier. Both include a full zip with a soft standup collar. Their flat seams reduce the weight and don’t rub against the body or layers of clothing.
Other fleeces with special features include the Patagonia Synchilla Snap-T for anyone who always wants more pocket real estate. The REI Hyperstretch’s hood is an outstanding feature if you often throw up the hood for more warmth and wind protection. The Cotopaxi Teca Fleece also gets high marks for its elastic bindings on the cuffs and hem. In the end, the unique features of each option can make the jacket function like a custom coat suited to your needs.
How to Choose a Fleece Jacket
USE
To decide on the best fleece for you, consider your personal style, typical local weather conditions, and activity level. If you’ll be using your fleece jacket for backcountry trips, we recommend going with a jacket that breathes well, dries quickly, and has a good warmth-to-weight ratio. If you’ll mostly be wearing it around town, consider a heavier, more stylish jacket that’s durable enough to stand regular washing.
HOOD VS. NON-HOODED
To hood or not to hood? This choice usually comes down to personal style and how you prefer to layer for different activities. Hoods can take the place of a hat and add built-in neck protection to your clothing system. Non-hooded jackets weigh a bit less and are easier to layer, although you may need to bring a hat or a buff for full head coverage.
PULLOVER VS. QUARTER-ZIP VS. FULL-ZIP
Many of our favorite fleece jackets are full-zip, but a lot of them are available in pullover or quarter-zip styles as well. Full-zip jackets are easier to vent and put on/take off. They also tend to have more features like pockets and a hood.
Quarter-zip options are the middle ground of the fleece world – a little ventilation and more maneuverability when putting them on and taking them off. There are some great models out there, however, as a general rule, we prefer full-zip if that’s an option.
Pullovers are usually a bit lighter-weight/less bulky for packing, and are often more affordable. They’re also the better option if you want to be able to wear your jacket as a next-to-skin layer without another shirt underneath.
WEIGHT & WARMTH
Fleece “weight” refers to the loft and thickness of the material. Most companies use the Polartec scale of 100, 200, 300 to describe their fleece – the higher the number, the warmer (and heavier) the jacket will be. Lightweight fleeces (100 to 200-weight) work great for aerobic activities or warmer conditions, while heavier fleeces (300-weight plus) are best for frontcountry use or really cold conditions.
Conclusion
Choosing the right fleece takes more than just picking something fuzzy. Whether you’re tackling a late fall hike or raking leaves, selecting for your specific needs is key. A good fleece should last a lifetime, keeping you warm and adding comfort to your outdoor adventures for years. With so many choices, the perfect fleece won’t just keep you cozy—it’ll make your hikes better. We hope our tests and reviews guide you to your next go-to layer for all your outdoor adventures ahead.
