A Guide To Fleece
Whatever your next adventure has in store, you need clothing that can keep up. From the trail to the summit, a fleece jacket or pullover is a must-have that traps heat close to your body to keep you warm all day, every day. Aside from its insulating properties, the benefits of fleece are many. It’s quick-drying, lightweight, durable, easy to launder, and highly breathable.
What is fleece?
Fleece is a synthetic fabric designed primarily for warmth. Named after a sheep’s coat, it’s a soft, cozy, and breathable material usually made from polyester. It’s also flexible and versatile, which makes it an excellent addition to any outdoor outfit. Whether you’re seeking a stand-alone piece or a layer to wear under your jacket, you won’t regret investing in a fabric that promotes warmth and breathability when on the go.
Our fleece pullovers are an ideal mid-layer for colder temperatures. Pair them with a waterproof shell and stay light and dry all season long. For a more versatile option you can zip up or down as needed, try our men's and women’s full zip fleece collection, which is perfect when you’re ready for a fall hike or spring walk.
What is performance fleece?
Performance fleece is built for active or athletic use. It uses a combination of polyester and lycra and is engineered to be extremely flexible and to move with you. While you’re active, synthetic polyester will absorb moisture to keep you dry and cool. When you’re taking a break, performance fleece’s insulating properties will kick in to keep you warm.
What does microfleece mean?
Microfleece is a thin, soft, and flexible fabric that is lighter and more breathable than thicker alternatives. Despite being the lightest of the fleece fabric materials, it performs well as a warm single-layer piece. Built for any adventure, the lightweight construction promotes mobility on the move.
Our Polartec® microfleece technology has a unique lofted structure that’s as breathable as it is warm. Many of our micro-fleeces have two zipped hand pockets to store your essentials and a super soft interior will keep you warm as temperatures drop. Extra insulation further reduces heat loss even in the coldest conditions. You can also turn your microfleece jacket into a mid-layer by pairing it with a breathable and waterproof rain jacket.
Who makes the best fleece jacket?
There are different fleeces for different purposes. Rather than focusing on the brand, it’s best to keep an eye out for key features like breathability and comfort so you can enjoy all the benefits of fleece. You can also look out for fleece tops with functional extras like thumb loops and chest pockets so you can keep warm and keep anything you’re carrying within easy reach.
What is a fleece pullover?
Unlike a full-zip jacket, a fleece pullover typically features a flexible crew neck, quarter zip, or snap-neck button top, so it's super easy to get on or off while on the trail. Our men’s and women’s fleece pullovers make an ideal mid-layer, paired with weather-resistant outerwear.
Can you wash a fleece jacket?
Yes, you can wash your fleece fabric material in a few simple steps. For a quick fix, put your fleece in the washing machine on a gentle cycle using cold water. Hand washing is also an option for polyester fleece fabric material, but be sure to turn it inside out to prevent pilling.
You should avoid fabric softeners to protect fibers, and air drying your gear is better for longevity and a little kinder on mother nature, too. Remember not to iron your fleece fabric material as the fibers may melt!
Enjoy the benefits of fleece on your next adventure!
Now that you know all the benefits of fleece, it’s time to choose something fun, functional, and durable for your next outdoor adventure. Whether you’re planning an expedition or exploring a local trail, choose from our men’s fleece and women’s fleece collections today.