Versatile, warm and lightweight, a good fleece is a must for any hiker, climber or outdoor lover. To be clear, we’re talking about Polar fleece here, not the kind harvested from sheep. It’s made from synthetic insulated fabrics and is highly breathable, machine-washable, and quick drying, making it easy to care for as well as comfortable. It’s also naturally hydrophobic, barely retaining water when wet - but it doesn’t withstand wind well, so if you’re out in the elements, it’s best worn over baselayers and under a waterproof, windproof shell jacket.
What style of fleece midlayer should I buy?
The versatility of fleece fabric means there are lots different garment types available, including zipped jackets, pullovers, gilets and hoodies. They come in different weights, too: lightweight, thin fleeces work best as part of a layering system, whilst thick, chunky fleeces can be worn alone. If you’re planning on wearing your fleece under a waterproof jacket we’d recommend picking a lightweight half- or quarter-zip pullover, or a sleeveless gilet. If you want a fleece layer you can wear on its own, a zipped hoodie or a jacket is your most versatile bet. Zipped pockets are useful, and a high-cut neck and elasticated cuffs help retain heat, too.
Is Polar fleece environmentally friendly?
Fleece is a purely synthetic fibre, so if you’re vegan (or avoiding wool for any other reason) it’s a great option. However, the fabrication process isn’t particularly great for the environment. The good news is that it’s very long-lasting, so you can minimise your impact by buying a good one that won’t need replacing for many years. If that’s not satisfactory, keep an eye out for more eco-friendly recycled fleeces, which are typically made from old garment material or from recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles.
The best fleece jackets to buy
1. Fjällräven Övik hoody for men and women: Best all-rounder
£130, Buy now from Cotswold Outdoor
Cult outdoor brand Fjällräven has applied smart Swedish technology to fleece, and come up with a basic hoodie that also serves as a seriously covetable midlayer. Made from environmentally friendly recycled polyester, the Övik has a soft brushed inner layer and a bobble-resistant knitted outer. It’s very warm, yet breathable – ideal for everything from winter hikes to wearing down the pub. Both the men’s and women’s versions sport a flattering cut, cosy hood, leather trim and zipped pockets.
Key details – Material: Polyester; Recycled?: Yes; Pockets: Two, zipped; Hood: Yes
2. Protest Tolsona jacket for women: The best casual option
£60, Buy Now from Amazon
Who knew fleece could look this stylish? Protest takes fleece and makes it look as handsome as your favourite checked shirt, complete with popper fastenings, chest pocket and a soft teddy collar. The long-line cut and thick fabric make the Tolsona ideal to wear either on its own or under a waterproof coat. It’s great for snowsports, too – it’ll keep you warm on the pistes and looks great with jeans for a spot of après-ski when you’re back from the mountain. Available in red or blue.
Key details – Material: Polyester; Recycled?: No; Pockets: Two, poppers; Hood: No
3. Craghoppers Liston pullover for men: Best budget fleece
The Liston is a great addition to your winter wardrobe, delivering seriously good quality for a very palatable price. The soft fleece inner layer does a great job of trapping heat, while the durable knit-style outer looks smart even after months of frequent wear. We like the cosy high neck and zipped chest pocket too. While it’s sold as a men’s garment, smaller sizes are available which could work well for women, too.
Key details – Material: Polyester; Recycled?: No; Pockets: One, zipped; Hood: No
4. The North Face Glacier pullover for men and women: Best for winter hikes
£40, Buy Now from Amazon
North Face fleeces are a classic, and with good reason – they last for years, and they’re impeccably designed. The Glacier is thin enough to ensure that you don’t overheat, and is easily layered over long-sleeved tops and under coats, yet it’s warm enough to keep you toasty on a freezing day. And if your winter activities get you a little sweaty then the fast-drying mechanism wicks water away and keeps the fleece from getting soggy – perfect for hiking and for snow wear. It’s made with recycled polyester too, for extra brownie points.
Key details – Material: Polyester; Recycled?: Yes; Pockets: No; Hood: No
5. Rab Superflux hoody for men from Cotswold Outdoors: Best for climbers
£90, Buy now from Cotswold Outdoors
This soft and flexible fleece hoodie from Rab is made from a combination of fleece and spandex, so it’s extremely comfortable and barely noticeable when on - except for the massive dose of extra warmth it delivers. We like the zipped chest pocket, high-cut neck, covered zip and generous hood, which will fit under a helmet. The thumb holes in the sleeves are another nice touch, ensuring the hoodie will stay put when worn with gloves. Rab’s midlayers are favoured by climbers and mountaineers and the Superflux would be perfect for either sport.
Key details – Material: Polyester and spandex; Recycled?: No; Pockets: One, zipped; Hood: Yes
