A fleece jacket is an essential part of your outdoor wardrobe; as the ultimate hiking and backpacking layer, 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 Lightweight Alpine Fleece: Rab Ascendor Light Hoody Men’s ($130) / Women’s ($130)
Comfortable & Warm Fleece with a Flattering Fit: Arc’teryx Kyanite Hoodie Men’s ($200) / Women’s ($200)
Best Go-To Lightweight Fleece for Layering: REI Trailmade Men’s ($60) / Women’s ($60)
Most Versatile Fleece: Patagonia R1 Air Men’s ($129) / Women’s ($129)
Best Pullover Fleece: Cotopaxi Abrazo Half Zip Men’s ($120) / Women’s ($120)
Best Heavyweight Fleece: The North Face Denali Fleece Men’s ($180) / Women’s ($180)
Most Breathable Fleece: Outdoor Research Vigor Men’s ($120) / Women’s ($120)
Comfortable, Lightweight & Durable Fleece: Patagonia Lightweight Synchilla Snap-T Men’s ($149) / Women’s ($149)
Best Budget Fleece: Columbia Steens Mountain 2.0 Men’s ($65) / Benton Springs Women’s ($46)
What’s New
The CleverHiker team has been testing fleece jackets in chilly conditions to find this year’s top performers for men and women– and we’ve got some exciting updates for you.
- The Rab Ascendor Light Hoody Men’s ($130) / Women’s ($130) is our top pick for alpine objectives. We love its slim-fitting, non-bulky shape, under-helmet hood, stretchy and breathable insulation, and lightweight design.
- The REI Trailmade Men’s ($60) / Women’s ($60) is a simple, affordable, breathable, and durable fleece that is a perfect addition to your layering system in cold weather.
- We also added the Cotopaxi Abrazo Half-Zip Men’s ($120) / Women’s ($120) as our favorite pull-over with its large head opening, warmth and stylish designs.
Fleece Jackets Overall Testing Scores
Patagonia Better Sweater
Best Fleece Jacket Overall
CleverHiker Rating: 4.7/5.0
Price: $159
Measured Weight: 1 lb. 2.8 oz.(Men’s M)
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).
Rab Ascendor Light Hoody
Best Lightweight Alpine Fleece
CleverHiker Rating: 4.6/5.0
Price: $130
Measured Weight: 6.8 oz.(Men’s M)
Pros
- Lightweight and packable
- Slim-fitting/not bulky
- Insulating
- Hooded
- Can easily be layered under an outer shell
- Debris doesn't cling as much as other fleeces
Cons
- Can be snug in shoulders and chest
- No hand pockets
- Not as warm as other thicker fleeces
The Rab Ascendor Light Hoody (men’s / women’s) is our #1 pick for the best lightweight alpine fleece. As the lightest and most packable fleece in our lineup, it is a perfect addition to your layering system for backcountry expeditions, peak summits, and mountain climbing.
Its slim-fitting, non-bulky design fits easily under a harness or backpack, while its stretchy and snug hood can fit under a helmet or over a hat. Due to the narrow fit, this fleece does run a bit tight in the shoulders, upper arms, and chest, making it best suited for smaller-framed individuals.
We love the breathable, stretchy, sweat-wicking, and thin yet insulating Thermic S material that provides the perfect balance of lightweight warmth and breathability for intense outdoor pursuits. The fleece doesn’t cling to debris as much as other similar jackets on the market and dries quickly due to the thinner performance material.
While we appreciate the zippered chest pocket, we do wish that the Rab Ascendor came with zippered hand pockets as well. However, overall, we are impressed with this hoody as an excellent addition to your year-round backcountry layering system.
Arc’teryx Kyanite Lightweight Fleece Hoodie
Comfortable & Warm Fleece with a Flattering Fit
CleverHiker Rating: 4.5/5.0
Price: $150
Measured Weight: 10.6 oz.(Men’s M)
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.
REI Trailmade Fleece
Best Go-To Lightweight Fleece for Layering
CleverHiker Rating: 4.5/5.0
Price: $60
Measured Weight: 10.9 oz.(Men’s M)
Pros
- Zippered hand pockets
- Relaxed fit
- Layers well
- Packable
- Price
Cons
- Not as warm as advirtised
- Runs large and long
- Lacks features
The REI Trailmade is a simple, functional, no-frills fleece that ranks well in most of our testing categories, as well as in affordability.
While the fleece feels like more of a lightweight layer compared to its advertised midweight warmth, its relaxed yet slim fit makes it a great option for layering underneath an outer shell. Due to its narrower silhouette, it also fits comfortably under a backpack without extra bulk. The Trailmade does run slightly large and long in the torso, making us wish it came with cinches at the waist to better customize the fit.
While this jacket lacks features, we appreciate its 2 zippered hand pockets, low-pile fleece (more resistant to clingy debris), lighter weight, and overall excellent packability. The Trailmade is a comfy go-to fleece to have in your layering system that won’t break the bank.
Patagonia R1 Air Zip-Neck Pullover
Most Versatile Fleece
CleverHiker Rating: 4.3/5.0
Price: $129
Measured Weight: 10.2 oz.(Men’s M)
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).
Cotopaxi Abrazo Fleece Half-Zip Jacket
Best Pullover Fleece
CleverHiker Rating: 4.3/5.0
Price: $120
Measured Weight: 13.9 oz.(Men’s M)
Pros
- Trendy style
- 1/2 zip
- True to size
- Layers over a long sleeve easily
Cons
- Chest pocket location (for women's only)
- Kangaroo pocket isn't ideal for carrying essentials on the trail
- Fleece collects debris
- Bulky/heavy
The Cotopaxi Abrazo Half-Zip (men’s / women’s) is our pick for a pullover fleece. We especially love its long chest zipper that makes pulling on and off the sweater a breeze (you can even take it on or off without removing your hat!). Cotopaxi’s stylish designs make this pullover perfect for trail-to-town ventures. While this fleece is bulkier than others in our lineup, it still fits inside our daypack when needing to shed a layer on the trail.
While we appreciate the pockets on the Abrazo Half-Zip, they aren’t our favorite. The chest pocket is large and roomy, but it is not located in the most comfortable or convenient place for women.
The front kangaroo-style hand pocket is best used for keeping hands toasty warm. It is not very functional for stashing smaller items or keys—that weight and lack of structure cause the material to sag and bulge in the front.
Even though the Abrazo feels high quality, the higher-pile fleece does cling to debris. We wish that the materials used in the fleece were reversed. We would prefer having the thinner inner lining of the pullover on the outside and the fluffy, high-pile material closer to the skin. With that being said, even with the current design, we find this a cozy option to have on hand in all seasons.
The North Face Retro Denali Fleece
Best Heavyweight Fleece
CleverHiker Rating: 4.2/5.0
Price: $180
Measured Weight: 1 lb. 3.7 oz.(Men’s M)
Pros
- Warm, soft, plush, cozy
- Lined collar
- Zippered chest and hand pockets
- Pit-zips
- Cinch waist
Cons
- Shorter torso
- Tight cuffs
- Bulky/heavy
- Debris clings easily
- Price
The North Face Retro Denali Jacket (men’s / women’s) is the warmest fleece in our lineup with its heavyweight, thick, and insulating material. Although this jacket is not very packable, it feels bulky, clings to debris more easily, and is not as breathable as others in our lineup for active pursuits, it is still an excellent go-to everyday fleece with its durable, long-lasting construction that hits high marks for us with warmth, comfort, and features.
Specifically, we appreciate the zippered hand pockets and chest pocket, lined collar, long pit zips for ventilation, and waist cinches to adjust the fit. Keep in mind, however, that the Retro Denali fits shorter in the torso, and the cuffs around the hand are a bit tight and non-stretchy; pulling on the sleeves is not as effortless as with most of the other jackets we field-tested.
Overall, this iconic fleece also looks good around town and is a great option for home to the hills.
Outdoor Research Vigor
Most Breathable Fleece
CleverHiker Rating: 4.2/5.0
Price: $120
Measured Weight: 12.6 oz.(Men’s M)
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 (12.9 oz for the men’s), 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, making it a great go-to for everything from hiking to snow sports – 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 Lightweight Synchilla Snap-T
Comfortable, Lightweight, & Durable Fleece
CleverHiker Rating: 4.1/5.0
Price: $149
Measured Weight: 13.2 oz.(Men’s M)
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.
Columbia Steens Mountain 2.0 / Benton Springs
Best Budget Fleece
CleverHiker Rating: 4.0/5.0
Price: $65
Measured Weight: 1 lb. 3.2 oz.(Men’s M)
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 scored well 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.
Product Comparison Table
| oSort | Product | Price | Measured Weight | Hood | Warmth | Comfort | Durability | Weight/Packed Size | Features | 0 |
Patagonia Better Sweater View Men's View Women's 
|
$159 | 1 lb. 2.8 oz. (Men’s M) | No hood | 4.6 | 4.8 | 4.7 | 4.1 | 4.5 | 1 |
Rab Ascendor Light Hoody View Men's View Women's
|
$130 | 6.8 oz. (Men’s M) | Hood | 4.4 | 4.2 | 4.5 | 4.8 | 4.5 | 2 |
Arc’teryx Kyanite Lightweight Fleece Hoodie View Men's View Women's
|
$150 | 10.6 oz. (Men’s M) | Hood | 4.3 | 4.2 | 4.4 | 4.6 | 4.4 | 3 |
REI Trailmade Fleece View Men's View Women's 
|
$60 | 10.9 oz. (Men’s M) | No hood | 4.2 | 4.6 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.0 | 4 |
Patagonia R1 Air Zip-Neck Pullover View Men's View Women's |
$129 | 10.2 oz. (Men’s M) | No hood | 4.2 | 4.4 | 4.1 | 4.6 | 4.1 | 5 |
Cotopaxi Abrazo Fleece Half-Zip Jacket View Men's View Women's |
$120 | 13.9 oz. (Men’s M) | No hood | 4.4 | 4.5 | 3.8 | 4.4 | 4.4 | 6 |
The North Face Retro Denali Fleece View Men's View Women's |
$180 | 1 lb. 3.7 oz. (Men’s M) | No hood | 4.8 | 4.6 | 4.0 | 3.5 | 4.8 | 7 |
Outdoor Research Vigor View Men's View Women's |
$120 | 12.6 oz. (Men’s M) | Hood | 4.2 | 4.2 | 4.1 | 4.4 | 4.4 | 8 |
Patagonia Lightweight Synchilla Snap-T View Men's View Women's |
$149 | 13.2 oz. (Men’s M) | No hood | 4.3 | 4.5 | 4.2 | 4.3 | 4.3 | 9 |
Columbia Steens Mountain 2.0 / Benton Springs View Men's View Women's
|
$65 | 1 lb. 3.2 oz. (Men’s M) | No hood | 4.2 | 4.3 | 4.2 | 3.6 | 3.9 |
|---|
How We Test & Methodology
We test fleece jackets using five metrics: warmth, comfort, weight, durability, and features. We wore them for miles on hikes, traveling through airports, and four-wheeling up dirt roads, as well as in various conditions year-round.
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, one of our gear analysts was able to test the warmth in a walk-in freezer.
COMFORT
We hiked with the fleeces on trails in varied weather and terrain to see how they performed in the wild. Additionally, we wore them in everyday frontcountry life, both around the house and during walks to the local coffee shop, to assess their comfort over extended periods.
We noted how each fleece feels while moving around, specifically in the chest and shoulders, to see if it rubs or restricts movement anywhere. We scrambled up rocks, lifting our arms to see how the fleece waist stayed in place. Finally, we tested the fleeces with a pack to see how they felt with weight on them and a waist belt.
WEIGHT & PACKED SIZE
Aside from weighing each fleece, we paid attention to how they felt on the body and how much they weighed us down on the trail. We compressed each model to see which ones were the smallest by packing them into a backpack. The constant backpacker conundrum is that lighter fleeces have better packability, but typically offer less warmth and durability.
DURABILITY
For durability, we start by noting the material and stitching used to make each fleece. On trail, we noted how they dealt with branches or trees scraping against them.
In addition to on-trail testing, 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.
Further, we determined which fleeces were more resistant to debris cling and which ones tended to collect sticks, moss, and dirt on trail.
FEATURES
Here, we considered some of the special extras that make each fleece unique. We focused on features such as adjustable waists and hoods, pockets( both in terms of size and location), ventilation holes or zippers, and collars or thumb loops. Features on fleeces are nice for storage and additional comfort and warmth, but can add weight.
Why Trust CleverHiker
We’ve collectively hiked and backpacked more than 25,000 miles and 3,000 days in fleece jackets to identify the best of the best. Gear Analyst David Young hiked around the Grand Tetons and Aspen in these fleece jackets included in this list. He’s also climbed more than 40 Fourteener peaks across Colorado, which has given him a deep understanding of what to look for in a fleece jacket. His previous testing, research, and working in the outdoor industry, helped him discern the pros and cons of the fleeces that he reviews.
Gear Analyst Emily Parnay is also bringing her fleece testing expertise to this review. Her passion and experience in hiking throughout the varied and diverse landscapes of California gives her a keen perspective on technical jackets as well as an eye for the outdoorsy mountain style.
With her background in the outdoor industry, she offers a unique and valuable perspective on gear testing, particularly when it comes to gear specifically designed for women.
Analysis & Results
We rate our fleeces on five different metrics – warmth, comfort, weight/packability, durability, and features. We discuss below how they performed in our real-world, hands-on testing.
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.
For a fleece that will last a lifetime, Patagonia Better Sweater is the best option. 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 REI Trailmade is also more affordable, and although it is a simple fleece, it provides excellent breathable lightweight warmth, a slimmer-fit for layering and dependable durability.
The Outdoor Research Vigor is a favorite lightweight option for a bit more money. The warm yet flexible material works great in 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 Retro 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 Abrazo Half-Zip Jacket. Both provide next-level warmth on cold hikes, though per usual, your getting some bulk as a tradeoff.
The Rab Ascendor Light Hoody is our top pick for lightweight insulating warmth for the backcountry with its body-hugging fit and snug under-helmet hood for ultimate packability.
COMFORT
Comfortable fleeces come in all shapes and sizes, from the roomy and stretchy Patagonia Better Sweater to the soft, blanket-feeling North Face Retro 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, Cotopaxi Abrazo Half-Zip, and REI Trailmade are a few other super comfy options without any movement restrictions, providing that perfect balance between comfort, warmth and versatility.
While we find all the fleeces in our lineup comfy and cozy, some of the body-hugging styles like the Rab Ascendor or Arc’Teryx Kyanite are best suited to smaller framed individuals with narrower and smaller shoulders and chest.
DURABILITY
The Patagonia Better Sweater tops the durability list. It is 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 Trailmade, Rab Ascendor Light Hoody and the Arc’teryx Kyanite, are made with strong and stretchy material that is resistant to debris cling. These fleeces also fit snugger to the body, making them less susceptible to snagging on overgrown trails.
WEIGHT & PACKABILITY
The balance between weight and warmth is critical on trail – choosing a fleece that provides the perfect balance of both without sacrificing either completely is essential. If this layer is headed with you into the backcountry, a packable and lightweight option is key for a layering system that doesn’t take up too much space in your pack.
The Rab Ascendor Light Hoody is the lightest and most packable option in our lineup, at under 7 ounces. This hoody provides a unique Thermic ™ S insulation which combines stretch, breathability, sweat-wicking qualities and warmth all into one package. It is designed for the mountain athlete from rock climbing to peak scrambling, to maintain body heat during intense physical activity.
The Arc’teryx Kyanite and Patagonia R1 Air, at just under 11 ounces, are also thin, very lightweight options. The two are also stretchy and breathable, making them great high-intensity hiking options. They also slip easily into your backpack when shedding a layer on 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 North Face Retro Denali is the most feature-filled fleece in our lineup with its large pit zips, waist cinches, chest pocket, and zippered hand pockets.
The Patagonia Better Sweater is a full-zip with a standup collar that is soft on the face and neck and a flat seam that reduces the weight and bulk, and doesn’t rub against the body or layers of clothing. It also has 2 zippered hand pockets and a side zippered pocket on the arm.
Another fleece with special features includes the Rab Ascendor Light Hoody, which features a slim, low bulk profile, light weight, snug under-helmet hood, flatlocked seams for comfort, extra stretch, a chest zippered pocket and internal thumbholes to make layering easier underneath an outer shell.
How to Choose a Fleece Jacket
MATERIAL & PILE
When determining the best material for your fleece, consider high-pile vs low-pile, the percentage of spandex or elastane, and the overall thickness of the jacket.
High-pile fleece is very soft, warm, fluffy and comfy against the skin, though it does cling more to debris, takes longer to dry and may not be as durable. Low-pile fleece is smooth and dense, typically lightweight, more breathable, more resistant to debris cling and dries faster.
When choosing a fleece you plan on walking or hiking in, you may want to opt for a jacket with a higher percentage of spandex or elastane. That will make the fleece stretchier and more movement-friendy. Jackets without spandex or elastane may feel bulkier and stiffer.
Finally, thicker fleece jackets typically provide heavyweight warmth, making them ideal as a standalone layer in winter and colder conditions.
However, these fleeces are often too bulky and not as packable for backcountry adventures or for layering under a puffy. They also tend to lack breathability.
Lightweight and midweight fleece jackets are generally more packable and compressible, offer better breathability and versatility, and can be worn solo or used in a layering system throughout the year. For a fleece jacket that can do it all, we recommend starting with a high performance, light to mid weight fleece.
HOOD VS. NON-HOODED
When choosing between a hooded or hoodless fleece, there are a few considerations to take into account. A snug-fitting hood provides extra warmth around the head, neck and ears, while also offering some protection from wind. Hoods are great for additional sun protection and act as a barrier against inclement weather.
However, hoods will add some extra weight and bulk to your fleece jacket. If you are planning to layer a puffy or rain jacket over your fleece, the hood may get in the way and create a lump underneath your outer shell if not being worn – and the same can happen if carrying a backpack.
Hoodless fleece jackets are more ideal for layering, especially if your outer shell already has a hood. When determining which of these styles best suits your needs, first consider what other jackets and shells you already regularly use in your layering system.
POCKETS & FEATURES
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.
PULLOVER OR FULL-ZIP
Pullover fleeces are warm and comfy with a cleaner look due to the lack of a full-length zipper. When sitting, pullovers won’t bunch up in the front, unlike zippered jackets, which often create an unflattering appearance. Pullovers tend to offer fewer features and usually either kangaroo-style pockets or no pockets. If you want to try a pullover fleece, we highly recommend that you select one with a ½ zipper or snap closure to provide more space to slip it over your head.
For active outdoor pursuits, zippered jackets are the go-to. They are more versatile, come with more features and better pockets, and are generally easy to put on/take off. Not to mention, having a full-length zipper provides you with the ability to customize airflow and ventilation when you need extra breathability on a hard hike.
Zippered fleeces tend to have more diversity in their materials and design – from bulkier heavyweight options to slim-fitting body-hugging styles. However, ultimately, the best style – pullover or full-length – is a matter of personal preference.
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.
