Best Fleece Jackets of 2025
ByMultiple Authors
Jul 03, 2025
Table of contents
Patagonia R1 Air Full-Zip Hoody ($179)
Patagonia Better Sweater ($159)
The North Face Futurefleece Full-Zip Hoodie ($170)
Patagonia Micro D Pullover ($69)
Norrøna Trollveggen Thermal Pro ($199)
Patagonia Lightweight Synchilla Snap-T ($139)
Patagonia Better Sweater ($159)
This technical fleece jacket is one of the most versatile models we tested. The R1 Air Full-Zip Hoody leverages its unique fabric design to provide breathability and warmth in equal doses. It’s expensive and some folks might not like its aesthetic, but this is an all-around winner.
This technical fleece jacket is one of the most versatile models we tested. The R1 Air Full-Zip Hoody leverages its unique fabric design to provide breathability and warmth in equal doses. It’s expensive and some folks might not like its aesthetic, but this is an all-around winner.
Warmth
Comfort & Mobility
Breathability
Durability
Weight & Packability
Sustainability
Category
Technical
Weight
12.9 oz.
Material
100% polyester
Styles
Full-zip hoody, quarter-zip, crewneck
Pros
Cons
The most futuristic of Patagonia’s time-tested R series, the R1 Air Full-Zip Hoody is one of the most well-rounded fleeces in this roundup. Its vertical zigzag fabric is lightweight—162 g/m², coming in behind the superlight 133-g/m² Patagonia Micro D Pullover and the 124-g/m² North Face Summit Series Futurefleece—and features uninsulated spacing between the fleece portions, which promotes efficient airflow. One Better Trail editor deemed the material breathable enough for moderate-intensity uphills, such as skinning up his local ski hill. (He also noted that he’s a big fan of the R1 Air material that makes up the back portion of his Patagonia Nano-Air Light Hybrid Hoody, which is his favorite active puffy layer.) The R1 Air isn’t the flat-out most breathable fleece we’ve tested—that title goes to the Futurefleece—but it’s light enough for fast-paced hikes on chilly mornings or hanging around on warmer days.
This jacket is more versatile than the ultra-airy Futurefleece temperature-wise, though, due to its higher insulating properties. The R1 Air Hoody kept us warm down to 45°F in breezy conditions with a light jacket on top, and one Better Trail tester reported that it was the only layer she needed for shoulder season on the East Coast. The R1 Air’s slim cut aids its temperature control—sweat and heat escape from form-fitting garments better than loose ones, and warmth is trapped more easily as well—although one Better Trail tester noted the fabric could bunch around the bottom hem, while another said that the sleeves also folded up a bit awkward at his wrists. That said, the R1 Air is easy to layer over, and its fabric exhibits more than enough stretch to not impede movement.
Despite its light weight, this is a fairly full-featured fleece jacket. It has zippered hand pockets and a zippered chest pocket, although the latter is only large enough to hold a couple credit cards or car keys. The R1 Air’s fitted-yet-stretchy hood can slide under a helmet or sit atop a bare ahead with ease, and its main zipper extends quite high, up above the chin—useful if you want to seal your neck and lower face away drafts (make sure not to catch your lips in the zipper, though). We’d prefer thumb loops for a fleece with this technical pedigree—and price tag to match—but that’s a minor complaint. This is a high-performing layer that you won’t want to take off on trail days that start cold and get progressively warmer. For more, read our review of the R1 Air Hoody.
The Better Sweater is one of Patagonia’s flagship gorpcore pieces. This is a warm, comfortable, feature-rich fleece, although its weight and breathability make it best suited to leisurely hikes and urban adventures.
The Better Sweater is one of Patagonia’s flagship gorpcore pieces. This is a warm, comfortable, feature-rich fleece, although its weight and breathability make it best suited to leisurely hikes and urban adventures.
Warmth
Comfort & Mobility
Breathability
Durability
Weight & Packability
Sustainability
Category
Casual
Weight
1 lb. 6.5 oz.
Material
100% polyester
Styles
Full-zip, quarter-zip, vest
Pros
Cons
Even if you’ve never worn one, you’re probably familiar with the Better Sweater. This fleece has been a staple of Patagonia’s outdoor/lifestyle crossover ethos for many years, and it was easy for our tester to see why. He deemed it the warmest and coziest fleece he owns and found the knit polyester exterior and fleecy interior so soft that he wanted to wear it all the time—in fact, he even rocked the Better Sweater in the house without a shirt underneath. (TMI? Perhaps, but also a telling anecdote.) Add in a relaxed fit that offers a large range of movement, and you have one of the most comfortable models in this roundup, one that feels more akin to your favorite college sweater than a technical layering piece.
Granted, you probably wouldn’t want to wear the Better Sweater for involved outdoor adventures any more than you would that favorite sweater. This is not a breathable fleece that can keep up with the lighter models in this lineup, and our tester noted that it’s not the pick for an active day in the mountains. At almost 1.5 pounds, the Better Sweater is heavy and it’s bulky to boot, so it’s best used for a casual day hike or as a camp fleece on a short overnight. Past that, its sleek, classic styling works well for dinner with friends or wearing to work—really, any activity where you want to look good but won’t be sweating much.
What the Better Sweater excels at is warmth. Its heavy, knit fabric kept our tester toasty down into the 30s when worn under a shell, and he recommended the jacket for low-output exploring in cool temperatures. The Better Sweater lacks a hood, but it does feature an impressive array of pockets: two zippered hand pockets, a small zippered chest compartment, and an interior drop pocket. It’s also quite durable, and our tester wore it for about 50 days without reporting any noticeable damage (note: pilling is a common occurrence on the knit exterior, which Patagonia acknowledges on their product page). It is, of course, rather expensive—costing only $11 less than the highly technical Summit Series Futurefleece Full-Zip Hoodie from The North Face—but you’re paying for a quality lifestyle addition to your wardrobe. All in all, there are few drawbacks to the Better Sweater if you use it for the relatively leisurely activities it’s built for. To learn more, read our review of the Better Sweater.
The featherweight Futurefleece feels more like a souped-up base layer than a traditional fleece midlayer. It’s cozy and breathable, although it doesn’t offer much weather protection or warmth. Still, we think this exemplary active piece is worth the price for ultralight and high-effort adventures.
The featherweight Futurefleece feels more like a souped-up base layer than a traditional fleece midlayer. It’s cozy and breathable, although it doesn’t offer much weather protection or warmth. Still, we think this exemplary active piece is worth the price for ultralight and high-effort adventures.
Warmth
Comfort & Mobility
Breathability
Durability
Weight & Packability
Sustainability
Category
Technical
Weight
7.3 oz.
Material
100% polyester
Styles
Full-zip hoody, half-zip
Pros
Cons
When one hard-charging (and hard on gear) Better Trail editor told us that she’s owned not one but two of these jackets, we knew that the Summit Series FutureFleece must be up to snuff. This ultralight layer is the lightest fleece in this test, and as you can probably guess, it scores highly for breathability and mobility. The FutureFleece is so airy and packable that our editor brought it on a 50-kilometer run in Patagonia, on which she was able to stash it in her running vest when she wanted to only wear her t-shirt. That’s a rare quality, and at 7.3 ounces, the FutureFleece is by far the lightest fleece we tested. Because its fabric is so thin and close-fitting—its cut is closer to that of a base layer rather than a standard fleece—it also moves with your body and disperses heat exceptionally well, much more so than most active insulation.
As you can probably also gather, the FutureFleece is not warm. Wind and cold cut right through it, and our editor recommends packing along a light wind jacket to protect yourself and increase the fleece’s versatility. Worn alone, the FutureFleece is a warm-weather warrior, although layering it would make it suitable for high-output Nordic skiing or a ski tour on a relatively mild winter day. And, speaking of layering, the close fit allows it to slide under almost every layer, and our tester was especially complimentary of the scuba-style hood that fits effortlessly under a climbing helmet. This is definitely a minimalist, technical layer designed to hinder your movements in the mountains as little as possible, and as such, the FutureFleece only has one small zippered chest pocket.
Thankfully, despite its pared-down aesthetic, the FutureFleece is still plenty soft. Both its interior and exterior fabric are made with cozy-feeling polyester, which has proved durable to boot. Our tester expressed high confidence in the material’s longevity, although she was less effusive about the FutureFleece’s overall build. She had zipper issues on one sample that forced her to bring it in for repairs, which proved fruitless in the end. The jacket’s thumb loops are also merely fuzzy pieces of fabric, and we’d prefer more robust construction there, especially with a product that costs $170. In the end, both of those drawbacks are relatively minor quibbles with this layer, which is dialed for fast-moving, technical adventures where breathability is key. To learn more, read our Futurefleece Hoodie review.
This fleece’s clean, pared-down aesthetic and feature set belie its impressive performance. The Micro D pullover is quite warm for its weight, comfy, and well-crafted. Just make sure you don’t want a model with more bells and whistles.
This fleece’s clean, pared-down aesthetic and feature set belie its impressive performance. The Micro D pullover is quite warm for its weight, comfy, and well-crafted. Just make sure you don’t want a model with more bells and whistles.
Warmth
Comfort & Mobility
Breathability
Durability
Weight & Packability
Sustainability
Category
Casual
Weight
9.1 oz.
Material
100% polyester
Styles
Full-zip, half-zip, quarter-zip, hoody, crewneck
Pros
Cons
At first glance, the Micro D Fleece Pullover doesn’t seem to be anything special. Its lack of features—no hood, no pockets—and styling that’s more Costco than Patagucci seem to indicate a fleece that’s notable just because of its bargain price. Think again: Our tester found herself swooning over the extra-soft fabric and a warmth-to-weight ratio that’s among the highest of any fleece we tested. Rather than be put off by the pullover’s no-fuss layout, she stressed the Micro D’s timeless design and its praiseworthy performance. While it's not as cozy as, say, the Patagonia Better Sweater, the Micro D’s material feels great and never had our tester wishing she was wearing another fleece (it’s also less than half the price of the Better Sweater).
Despite weighing less than 10 ounces, the Micro D packs a highly insulating punch. Our tester wore it on a winter backpacking trip in Spain’s Picos de Europa and stayed comfortable in temps ranging from the low 30s to low 40s by layering it over a thin merino base layer during the daytime and under a synthetic puffy at night. The Micro D’s versatile fabric is thin enough that she never overheated, either, and she found it comfy enough to sleep in. Be warned, though, that while the fabric breathability sufficed for backpacking, our tester said she wouldn’t fastpack or trail run in the Micro D. It has merely average airiness, and models like The North Face’s Futurefleece or Outdoor Research’s Vigor Grid are better for speed-focused activities.
Because the Micro D is so light and minimalist, it packs down small enough for backpacking trips or quickly shoving in your daypack. The lack of a hood and pockets does decrease its usefulness somewhat, but we’d argue that if you’re getting a fleece this cozy for $70, you should probably just stash your snacks elsewhere and wear a hat if it’s chilly. The Micro D presents surprisingly few compromises despite its stripped-down design, and if you don’t mind its uninspired aesthetics, then there are very few fleeces we can think of that offer better bang for your buck. For more, read our review of the Micro D.
Perhaps the best-looking fleece on this list, the Trollveggen Thermal Pro boasts a retro design that turns heads. Your admirers will probably be in the ski resort or around a campfire, though, as this jacket is too warm and bulky for anything more than low-output laps and hikes.
Perhaps the best-looking fleece on this list, the Trollveggen Thermal Pro boasts a retro design that turns heads. Your admirers will probably be in the ski resort or around a campfire, though, as this jacket is too warm and bulky for anything more than low-output laps and hikes.
Warmth
Comfort & Mobility
Breathability
Durability
Weight & Packability
Sustainability
Category
Casual
Weight
1 lb. 1.6 oz.
Material
100% polyester
Styles
Full-zip jacket, vest
Pros
Cons
If swaddle-worthy warmth is what you’re looking for in a fleece, the Trollveggen Thermal Pro is probably your best bet out of any of the models in this lineup. Its medium-pile Polartec Thermal Pro fabric is quite heavy—295 g/m², to be exact—and Norrøna deems the Trollveggen to be its warmest midlayer. We concur: One Better Trail editor recommended the jacket as toasty enough to shine in a midwinter resort skiing kit or as a standalone piece in chilly shoulder season conditions. She also reported that the fabric has a soft, premium feel (we would hope so, given the Trollveggen’s hefty price tag) and that she loved wearing it for nontechnical outings. The jacket’s collar felt cozy against her neck (it lacks a hood), and on the fashion front, the Trollveggen’s retro styling is certainly eye-catching, but in an understated way.
The Trollveggen’s warmth and feature set make it way too bulky for most backpacking trips, as it packs down to the shape of a medium-sized pumpkin. As usual, though, Norrøna’s design quality and construction are on point. You probably won’t want to wear the Trollveggen in many situations that are particularly hard on gear, but it should last you for many years of aprés sessions and day hikes. (It even has reinforced patches on the shoulders that should prevent pilling from backpack straps.) However, our tester noted that the fabric lost a bit of its loft and softness after about a dozen washes—normal for most fleeces, but worth mentioning with a product this expensive.
This fleece jacket also stands out for its feature set. The Trollveggen has three pockets, with a zippered chest compartment and two zippered hand pockets that sit above a hipbelt. Its elastic cuffs have well-designed thumb loops, and though it lacks a hood, the collar extends high up a wearer’s neck. Fit-wise, our tester recommended sizing up if you’re on the fence. She would’ve preferred that the size small she tested—her typical move in fleece sizing—was a bit longer and offered more room to move in the shoulders. But that was about her only gripe with the Trollveggen’s feel, which is somewhat of a relief given that it costs almost $200. We think that’s pretty aggressive for a jacket without a hood and with relatively limited functionality, but if you’re seeking a casual fleece and want the warmest, best-looking model possible, you likely won’t regret buying this one. For more, read our Trollveggen Thermal Pro review.
The Lightweight Synchilla Snap-T is one of Patagonia’s most popular lifestyle fleeces, boasting a more retro aesthetic than the company’s similarly positioned Better Sweater. This pullover offers oodles of warmth and softness, but it’s firmly a low-output frontcountry layer.
The Lightweight Synchilla Snap-T is one of Patagonia’s most popular lifestyle fleeces, boasting a more retro aesthetic than the company’s similarly positioned Better Sweater. This pullover offers oodles of warmth and softness, but it’s firmly a low-output frontcountry layer.
Warmth
Comfort & Mobility
Breathability
Durability
Weight & Packability
Sustainability
Category
Casual
Weight
13.2 oz.
Material
100% polyester
Styles
Full-zip, quarter-zip anorak, pullover
Pros
Cons
The Lightweight Synchilla Snap-T Pullover is a statement piece. “No bland, run-of-the-mill styling for me,” it says. “I’m colorful, fun, and comfort-obsessed.” This fleece has the boldest design of any model in this roundup, with a bunch of bright colorways to choose from and a snap-button neck and pocket that complete its funky (yet sleek) aesthetic. The Synchilla is the younger, more carefree cousin of Patagonia’s relatively staid Better Sweater, but although the two pieces look plenty different, they each place a premium on comfort. Our tester compared the Synchilla to a fleece blanket and praised its warm, soft fabric. She also noted that its roomy fit and flexible material granted her unfettered movement and that the snap-button collar felt great even when it was touching her neck and chin.
Warmth-wise, the Synchilla bucks its “lightweight” designation and actually offers substantial insulation. Our tester wore it on casual day hikes with temperatures in the high 40s and found it very comfortable. She experienced windy conditions as well and reported that the thick material proved protective against chilling gusts (it’s far from windproof but does better than most fleeces). On the other hand, she also noted that the Synchilla was the least breathable fleece in her quiver, and was too warm when she started to hike uphill. It’s also quite bulky, making it far from ideal for stashing in a daypack or packing for a backcountry trip. This fleece’s sweet spot is slow hikes and low-key hangouts.
Patagonia’s construction quality is usually exemplary, and the Synchilla is no exception. Its fabric, seams, trim, and buttons all have a premium feel, and our tester has worn the fleece about 40 times without it suffering any wear and tear. In keeping with its lifestyle-oriented design, it doesn’t have a hood, and the single-buttoned chest pocket is small and lacks the security of one featuring a zipper. As fleeces go, the Synchilla is pretty minimalist, and its appeal lies in its on-skin feel and memorable design. There are definitely cheaper lifestyle models (the Patagonia Micro D Fleece Pullover is half the price, and the Mountain Hardwear Summit Grid Hoodie is $90), but none of those will stand out around a campfire like this one will. To learn more, read our review of the Lightweight Synchilla.
The midweight Kyanite’s strengths lie in its extremely comfortable feel, class-leading stretch, and breathability, which is relatively high for its build. However, we wish that its durability matched its materials and price point.
The midweight Kyanite’s strengths lie in its extremely comfortable feel, class-leading stretch, and breathability, which is relatively high for its build. However, we wish that its durability matched its materials and price point.
Warmth
Comfort & Mobility
Breathability
Durability
Weight & Packability
Sustainability
Category
Technical
Weight
15 oz.
Material
53% polyester, 38% nylon, 9% elastane
Styles
Hoody
Pros
Cons
Not every performance fleece has to have a skin-tight fit and feel like putting on an outdoor-oriented corset. For example: The Kyanite was one of our favorite models for midwinter hiking, chilly climbing, and ski touring, thanks to its mobile build and midweight material. One Better Trail tester said that the fleece’s fabric—a polyester/nylon/elastane mix—was the stretchiest that she’d ever worn and that she’s happy climbing, hiking, or doing cartwheels in the Kyanite. This jacket has a slim build compared to a casual fleece but is looser-fitting than technical competitors such as the Patagonia R1 Air or The North Face’s Summit Series Futurefleece. With long sleeves and an extended back hem, the Kyanite won’t ride up if you’re pole-planting or reaching for a hold, and folks with larger body types might find it more comfy than more body-hugging models.
Speaking of comfort: Our tester praised the Kyanite Hoody’s baby-soft inner material, saying that it felt better against her skin than the R1 Air’s fabric. However, the fleece’s nylon face portion left a bit to be desired. Our tester thought that the material felt thin and that it snagged easily. She also found pilling on the Kyanite’s backside after only about 20 uses, which is not ideal for a jacket that costs $200. Construction quality is high besides that, which is typical of what we’re used to from Arc’teryx. The Kyanite’s seams, trim, and zippers are all well-made, and its two zippered pockets can each fit a phone and are easy to operate with gloves on (as is the main zipper).
With a fabric weight of 248 g/m², the Kyanite lands solidly in the midweight category. As such, our tester was able to happily wear it on winter hikes in Spain’s Picos de Europa, with temperatures dipping into the 30s and high winds on the menu. This fleece is one of the warmest technical layers we tested, and grants quite a bit more insulation than models such as the R1 Air, Futurefleece, and Outdoor Research Vigor Grid. It can also fit a heavyweight base layer underneath—sometimes that might feel a bit more constricting in those competitors—making this one of the best fleeces in the test for snow activities. It’s not a going-uphill-in-summer layer, but the Kyanite will keep you in the comfort zone during most shoulder-season and winter activities. For more, read our review of the Arc'teryx Kyanite.
With a regular fit, understated yet elegant styling, and relatively heavy weight, the Keb may seem like a town-to-trail fleece. However, its unique fabric regulates temperature well and provides a comfortable cocoon for day hikes and similar activities.
With a regular fit, understated yet elegant styling, and relatively heavy weight, the Keb may seem like a town-to-trail fleece. However, its unique fabric regulates temperature well and provides a comfortable cocoon for day hikes and similar activities.
Warmth
Comfort & Mobility
Breathability
Durability
Weight & Packability
Sustainability
Category
Casual
Weight
1 lb. 2.2 oz.
Material
73% polyester, 20% wool, 7% elastane
Styles
Full-zip hoody
Pros
Cons
We don’t often see wool as a fleece material component, but it pays real dividends in the Fjallraven Keb Fleece Hoodie. The design parlays its 20% wool construction (the rest is 73% polyester and 7% elastane) into what our tester called a “super-plush feel,” with fabric that’s soft both inside and out. Wool is also a fantastic temperature regulator, and the Keb was one of our tester’s go-to layers for day hiking through the snowy winter landscape of Spain’s Picos de Europa. Conversely, it’s equally versatile and cozy for easy-going activities, such as eating an outdoor dinner with temps in the 30s (and while wearing a light puffy over it).
Wool is not a very compressible material, nor does it offer standout warmth for its weight. As such, the 1-pound-2.2-ounce Keb is not quite dialed for long-range backpacking, but it will still do you well on day hikes—which is how our tester mostly employed it. It also has a wonderful aesthetic, with clean lines and subdued (yet attractive) colors that won’t look out of place should you decide to post up for a drink or a meal after your hike. Finally, the Keb is packed with storage options—two zippered hand pockets, a chest pocket, and an internal stash pocket—should you want to keep all your small items on your person between activities.
If there’s a major drawback to this well-designed fleece, it’s the price. It’s one of the most expensive fleeces on the market at over $200, and there are plenty of soft, comfortable, and versatile layers available that cost far less. To be fair, its construction quality is typical of Fjallraven (excellent), and reinforced patches on the shoulders (where pack straps sit) complement the wool blend’s already solid durability. But we understand if you want to save some money for other gear. At least folks with the coin to spend on the Keb can stroll down the trail confident that they look great, no matter where their feet take them. For more, read our review of the Keb Fleece.
The Vigor Grid line is Outdoor Research’s entry in the breathable, versatile fleece category. It’s comfy, surprisingly tough, and feature-filled while still being plenty light, although it lacks warmth if you’re standing still or run cold.
The Vigor Grid line is Outdoor Research’s entry in the breathable, versatile fleece category. It’s comfy, surprisingly tough, and feature-filled while still being plenty light, although it lacks warmth if you’re standing still or run cold.
Warmth
Comfort & Mobility
Breathability
Durability
Weight & Packability
Sustainability
Category
Technical
Weight
10.3 oz.
Material
94% polyester, 6% elastane
Styles
Full-zip, half-zip, quarter-zip, pullover
Pros
Cons
Durable, light, and breathable are traits that don’t often pair well, but the Vigor Grid is a welcome exception to the rule. Our tester has worn the full-zip hooded version of this fleece for over two years and says that, despite its thin polyester/elastane fabric, her fleece has held up extremely well with no signs of wear and tear. She praised its stitching, zippers, and overall quality. That’s a welcome departure from some lightweight, active models such as the REI Co-op Flash Hyperstretch, which is similarly airy but lacks the Vigor Grid’s dependable construction.
On the trail, this fleece stands out for its breathability and versatility. Its thin, gridded fabric allows moisture and heat to quickly dissipate, and our tester praised the Vigor Grid for keeping her temperature in the comfort zone on a steep spring snowshoe hike in Washington’s North Cascades. (She was testing the women’s quarter-zip version, which has the same fabric but lacks a hood, on that trip.) With temperatures ranging from 20°F to 40°F, and wearing it over a thin wool base layer and under a synthetic midlayer, she was able to easily adjust her system as needed, using only the fleece when she started to overheat. Because the Vigor Grid is so light, though, it’s probably overmatched as a standalone layer in temps below about 50°F. Go with a more insulating model, such as the Patagonia R1 Air or Arc’teryx’s Kyanite, in those conditions.
The Vigor Grid’s fabric is also laudably soft and stretchy, and our tester was happy to sleep in the fleece while camping on Haleakalā in Hawaii. This model is also feature-rich in its hooded version, with two zippered hand pockets, a zippered chest pocket, and thumb loops. The Vigor Grid comes in a wide variety of zipper layouts, although it’s a bit of a bummer that both men and women don’t get the same options. At the time of publishing, the full-zip hoodie only comes in men’s sizes, the quarter-zip only in women’s sizes, while the non-hooded half-zip comes in men’s and women’s plus sizes. (Confused? We certainly were.) The hooded pullover is also available in both men’s and women’s sizes. All of those variations boast the same impressive fabric, though, so odds are you’ll be pleased with whichever one catches your eye. To learn more, read our review of the Vigor Grid.
This simple fleece won us over with its ultra-soft feel and trendy (well, at least for mountain towns) aesthetic. The Summit Grid Hoody is a casual piece that you’ll appreciate much more on easygoing hikes than technical missions, though.
This simple fleece won us over with its ultra-soft feel and trendy (well, at least for mountain towns) aesthetic. The Summit Grid Hoody is a casual piece that you’ll appreciate much more on easygoing hikes than technical missions, though.
Warmth
Comfort & Mobility
Breathability
Durability
Weight & Packability
Sustainability
Category
Casual
Weight
11.5 oz.
Material
100% polyester
Styles
Half-zip, pullover
Pros
Cons
Not every fleece that we test is designed with heart-pounding outings in mind, and plenty of those models are still deserving of praise. Case in point: The Summit Grid Hoody, a nontechnical quarter-zip that had one Better Trail editor reaching for it over and over. Granted, she recommended its best uses as chilly mornings at home, dog walks, beach bonfires, and scenic (read: slow-paced) hikes, but those are all activities we assume most of our readers enjoy. And the Summit Grid is perfect for them: Its midweight fabric is luxuriously cozy, and while the loose cut isn’t ideal for, say, climbing or fastpacking, it contributes to the fleece’s awfully comfy feel.
Our tester also praised the Summit Grid’s fabric for retaining its soft feel through dozens of washes. She noted that after all those wears the material looks fuzzier and more well-loved, but in a positive way. And while the Summit Grid’s stitching is quite clean throughout the entire garment this fleece seems built to last—as long as you’re okay with it aging gracefully alongside you. While it does, you’ll also probably appreciate the Summit Grid’s appealing, Melanzana-esque styling, which works well in both woodsy and urban environments, as well as its roomy hood—complete with adjustment toggles—that fits comfortably over an unhelmeted head. (It can’t slide under a helmet, either, but this fleece isn’t meant for that kind of mission.) The hoody also features a kangaroo pouch, but it’s not zippered and is meant for warming hands rather than stashing items.
At $90, the Summit Grid is one of the most affordable pieces we tested, and thanks to its winning feel and durability, it is a commendable value purchase. As we mentioned, however, it has below-average breathability (especially compared to standouts in that area, such as the similarly priced Outdoor Research Vigor Grid) and is not the fleece for wearing in mild weather or on vert-crushing adventures—50°F and lower is its sweet spot. It’s also not wind-resistant at all, and even light precipitation soaks into the fabric. But this fleece will shine on wind-down sessions after you’re back from the mountains—or hanging in camp—and you’ll be happy to throw it on whenever you’re craving a touch of comfort. For more, read our Summit Grid Hoody review.
This light, flexible fleece works well as a breathable layer for high-output activities. The Flash Hypsterstretch is also reliably comfy and costs significantly less than other active fleeces, although it’s held back by middling durability and below-average warmth.
This light, flexible fleece works well as a breathable layer for high-output activities. The Flash Hypsterstretch is also reliably comfy and costs significantly less than other active fleeces, although it’s held back by middling durability and below-average warmth.
Warmth
Comfort & Mobility
Breathability
Durability
Weight & Packability
Sustainability
Category
Technical
Weight
13 oz.
Material
54% polyester, 35% nylon, 11% elastane
Styles
Full-zip hoody
Pros
Cons
We’ve had mixed experiences with REI’s in-house product line, which offers affordable gear with varying degrees of effectiveness. The Flash Hyperstretch lands largely on the favorable end of the spectrum, boasting impressive breathability and mobility but suffering from a few caveats. Let’s start with the positives, though. This fleece jacket’s airy blend of polyester, nylon, and elastane is dialed for shedding heat and preventing egregious sweat buildup when you’re huffing and puffing on the trail. Our tester wore it while backpacking at elevation in Maui’s humid climate and snowshoeing near Bend, Oregon, and reported that he never overheated. Even on a sunrise climb up to the summit of Haleakalā, with temps in the 40s and 50s, the fleece vented well and prevented him from swamping out.
Because the Flash Hyperstretch is so thin and breezy—which makes it great for active use—it’s not very warm when you stop moving. Our tester layered the fleece under a shell for his Oregon snowshoe outing—the smooth exterior makes it easy to slide an outer layer over top—and found that he became chilly during breaks in temps around 30°F. This fleece is less insulating than the Patagonia R1 Air (which weighs slightly less) and most casual fleeces like Patagonia’s Lightweight Synchilla or Fjallraven’s Keb. It will only serve you well as a standalone layer in warm conditions. As part of a (relatively mild) winter layering system, though, the Flash Hyperstretch should be a versatile addition. It will also move with your body better than many warmer, bulkier models will. Our tester noted that the fleece offered easy mobility, thanks to the thin fabric, built-in stretch, and relative lack of structure.
Besides breathability, the Flash Hyperstretch’s fabric offers a soft feel, as does the collar when it rubs against your face and neck. However, our tester thought that the material seemed thin and less durable than higher-end fleeces, despite incorporating nylon on the hardface exterior, and the seams started fraying quickly with use. This might not be the model for taking off-trail or into extended contact with sharp, rocky terrain. (The tight fit might also prove to be an issue for folks with larger body types despite the fabric’s stretchiness.) The Flash Hyperstretch’s shallow hood fits close to the head and stays put in mild wind, though, and the fleece features two zippered hand pockets that are each roomy enough to hold a phone, thin gloves, or snacks. All in all, the Flash Hyperstretch offers high value if you're looking for a breathable, active fleece, although it may show wear more quickly than premium alternatives. For more, read our Flash Hyperstretch review.
The Coefficient Hoody largely succeeds in its mission to provide a breathable, technical fleece layer for high-output days in the mountains. If you can get past its tight fit, surprisingly high weight, and wallet-draining price, this is a solid performance pick.
The Coefficient Hoody largely succeeds in its mission to provide a breathable, technical fleece layer for high-output days in the mountains. If you can get past its tight fit, surprisingly high weight, and wallet-draining price, this is a solid performance pick.
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Category
Technical
Weight
1 lb. 4.5 oz.
Material
51% polyester, 36% nylon, 13% elastane
Styles
Full-zip hoody, quarter-zip
Pros
Cons
Technical fleeces can start to blur together—yes, we know, it’s some combination of light weight, breathable materials, and a body-hugging fit—but the Coefficient Hoody distinguishes itself with stretchiness that our tester deemed “astounding.” Thanks to Polartec Power Grid fabric that contains a healthy 13% elastane, the Coefficient grants more than enough range of motion for trail running, climbing, and probably whatever other activities you want to tackle in it. You won’t boil over while wearing it, either, as our tester discovered during winter trail runs in northern Spain. The Coefficient proved perfect on 35°F days under a wind shell, and he stayed comfy wearing it solo at 50°F.
With 180 g/m² fabric, the Coefficient qualifies as a lightweight fleece, and if you’re not putting the pedal to the metal, it probably won’t keep you very warm (competitors like the Arc’teryx Kyanite and Patagonia R1 Air offer more insulation). In good news, the scuba-style hood effectively protects your ears, prevents wind from sneaking in, and fits comfortably beneath a helmet—our tester called it the jacket’s design highlight. As for the rest of this fleece’s features, the Coefficient boasts a single, medium-size zippered chest pocket and robust thumb loops. At 1 pound 4.5 ounces, it’s quite a bit heavier than its active layer competitors (The North Face Summit Series Futurefleece weighs 7.3 oz. and the Outdoor Research Vigor Grid is 12.9 oz., for example), but it rolls up to an easily packable size.
At an eye-watering $199, the Coefficient is one of the most expensive fleeces we’ve tested, and there are a couple of traits you should be aware of before purchasing. Our tester found that his usual size felt tight, especially around his shoulders and under the arms; he recommended sizing up in most cases. Additionally, he reported that the fabric and stitching had started to fray where the fleece came into contact with hook-and-loop material. That durability isn’t very confidence-inducing, and we’d expect more from a piece that costs this much and otherwise features quality construction. If you can keep the Coefficient in good shape, though, it will most likely prove its worth whenever you dial up the RPMs on a day out. For more, read our review of the BD Coefficient.
This technical fleece jacket is one of the most versatile models we tested. The R1 Air Full-Zip Hoody leverages its unique fabric design to provide breathability and warmth in equal doses. It’s expensive and some folks might not like its aesthetic, but this is an all-around winner.
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The midweight Kyanite’s strengths lie in its extremely comfortable feel, class-leading stretch, and breathability, which is relatively high for its build. However, we wish that its durability matched its materials and price point.
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With a regular fit, understated yet elegant styling, and relatively heavy weight, the Keb may seem like a town-to-trail fleece. However, its unique fabric regulates temperature well and provides a comfortable cocoon for day hikes and similar activities.
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Our overall rating is the best indication of how a fleece jacket will perform out in the wild. In determining this score, we take into consideration all of the product's key attributes: How warm and comfortable it is, how well it breathes when you exert yourself, its durability, how much it weighs, and more. If you’re looking for an all-rounder for mixed technical and casual wear, we recommend targeting a fleece that earns a high score (use the “sort by” function above to order the picks based on overall score). However, some of the fleece jackets in this review might have standout qualities despite not performing as well as competitors—an attractive price, perhaps, or unbeatable comfort. We highlight those products whenever applicable.
In comparison to another insulated jacket category like down puffies, warmth is not the far-and-away most important factor in how we judge a fleece. These types of jackets often bridge the gap between true-winter cold and the heat of summer, and so a quality and versatile fleece is frequently one with only middling overall warmth. That said, the amount of insulation provided varies significantly in the market, from lightweight active pieces designed for regulating your temperature while on the move to high-pile fleeces made for cruising town, layering under a ski shell, or sitting at camp. Our advice: follow the parameters below to find your ideal level of insulation and narrow your jacket search.
The warmest fleeces on the market. These heavyweight designs can function as a midlayer for cold-weather resort skiing or be worn alone for cool fall and spring days. They’re probably too warm for moderate activity in mild temperatures.
Lighter, less-insulated models that will provide good warmth as part of a layering system, but less on their own. Worn solo, they’ll keep you toasty into the low 50s or so.
Featherweight fleeces that are meant for high-output activity and don’t offer much warmth at all.
A huge factor in how much you’ll enjoy your fleece is simply how good it feels to wear. This rating focuses on fabric softness, comfort touches such as zipper protectors and thumb loops, and how cozy a fleece feels overall. We also take into account how well the jacket conforms to and moves with you. If you plan to wear your fleece for active uses like hiking, trail running, climbing, or ski touring, it’s worth putting a premium on this score. Fleeces with built-in stretch provide a restriction-free feel that’s great for high-effort uses. If you’re after a casual everyday item or you’re easy to please, however, average mobility (i.e., no glaring issues) should suffice.
These fleeces feel like wearing your favorite old sweatshirt, but better suited for the trail and perhaps even more comfortable. They’re soft, cozy, and effortlessly mimic your movements.
Models that are comfy enough for all-day wear, but which have fabrics and cuts that are a tad less inviting than the highest-scoring fleeces.
Fleeces that aren’t pleasant to wear, and that you’ll probably only want to don for an instant—and hopefully short—dose of warmth.
Depending on planned uses, this rating can be a non-factor, moderately important, or near the top of your must-haves. If you’re looking for a technical and active fleece for activities ranging from backpacking to ski touring, pay close attention. Top-rated models here, like The North Face’s FutureFleece, ventilate and wick moisture effectively enough to even run in. On the other hand, if you’re looking for an around-town layer, an insulating piece for camp life, or a cozy midlayer for chilly resort skiing, you can instead focus on other categories like warmth, durability, and comfort.
These products are made with light, airy fabric that mitigates overheating and sweat extremely well. You can wear them for the majority of your day, even if you’re moving fast.
Fleeces that won’t swamp out in relatively cool conditions, or if you’re moving at a slower pace. You’ll remove them as temperature and activity levels rise, though.
Heavy models that insulate well, but will feel stuffy if you’re on the go.
The ability to hold up over time is important for any piece of gear, especially for apparel you’ll wear as frequently as a fleece. Fabric thickness and makeup are key here, and heavier, thicker models usually score highest. One standout is Fjallraven’s Keb Fleece, which features premium build quality, a midweight and hearty polyester/wool blend, and reinforced patches on the shoulders. On the flip side, ultralight items made for fast-and-light efforts will score lower and likely have a shorter lifespan. We also ding products that age quickly and are prone to excessive pilling and wear.
Toughness leaders that can withstand the rigors of the outdoors for years on end. They resist rips and abrasions quite well.
These models aren’t quite as resilient and might look worn following moderate use and repeated washing.
Thin, delicate fleeces that you need to treat carefully in order to preserve fabric integrity.
This is a performance rating that matters for when you’re wearing your fleece over a full day of activity—a light jacket will generally feel better over an extended period of time than a heavy one—and when you stash it away in your pack. Ultralight, compressible gear is also prized for backpacking trips, when pack space matters. If, however, your typical uses will be for low-output and easy-going activities, you can largely ignore this rating. Even the lowest-scoring fleeces here aren’t overly cumbersome for camp life or walking around town.
Lightweight fleeces that pack down to easily stowable sizes. You can fit them in a small crevice of your pack.
Midweight models that are compact enough to take on casual hikes and backpacking trips, but take up more space than the highest-scoring products.
Cumbersome, bulky fleeces that are hard to store unless you have a lot of pack space.
Our sustainability rating for fleece jackets takes into account eight different criteria. At the product level, we’re looking for recycled and Bluesign-approved materials. At the brand level, our criteria include whether the company engages in responsible manufacturing, uses recycled or reduced packaging, has a dedicated repair service for fleece jackets, offers a resale or recycling program, monitors greenhouse gas emissions, and publishes an annual impact report. We also consider the degree to which our criteria are met; for example, 10% recycled materials is not the same as 100% recycled materials. Note that not every sustainability effort by a brand or product aligns neatly into our categories. In these circumstances, we may adjust a rating up or down. You can find details on these factors in the sustainability drop-down under each product above.
These fleece jackets are among the most sustainable on the market and earn our Better Trail Certified distinction. They often meet most of our sustainability criteria for this category.
These fleece jackets are a good, middle-of-the-pack option for sustainability. They often meet about half or more of our criteria for this category.
These fleece jackets are the least sustainable and have significant room for improvement. They usually only meet about a quarter or less of our criteria.
Polyester
All of the fleece jackets that we tested are made with some amount of polyester. Polyester is a synthetic material that’s extremely common in outdoor apparel, and in fleece form, it is lofty and extremely soft to the touch. Manufacturers (and outdoor adventurers) like it because it’s fairly soft, breathable, decently light, and doesn’t easily absorb water—all positive traits for a versatile layer like a fleece jacket. While some of the models in this round-up are made completely from polyester, oftentimes a fleece jacket will consist of polyester blended with another material, such as nylon or elastane. We cover those additional materials below.
Nylon
Nylon has a better strength-to-weight ratio than polyester fleece, so its main job in a fleece fabric blend is to provide a shot of durability. Because it isn’t as soft or breathable as polyester, nylon will usually make up less than a majority of the fabric overall. (For example, the REI Co-op Flash Hyperstretch’s fabric is 54% polyester, 35% nylon, and 11% elastane.) Like polyester, nylon is decently water-resistant but is not waterproof.
Elastane
Elastane—sometimes referred to by the brand names Spandex or Lycra—is a synthetic fiber that gives a fabric blend stretch. This is a prized material particularly in technical fleeces that are built for activities like climbing, trail running, or fast-moving hiking and backpacking. Generally speaking, the more elastane in a fleece’s material blend—Black Diamond’s Coefficient has 13% and Arc’teryx’s Kyanite has 9%—the stretchier the product is.
Wool
Wool is occasionally incorporated into casual fleeces, including the Fjallraven Keb Fleece Hoodie, which features 20% wool (read our Keb Fleece review). Wool is much heavier than polyester and nylon and it stretches when wet, making it less ideal for outdoor endeavors that might see variable weather. However, there are plenty of reasons that humans have been wearing fleece for millennia: it provides impressive temperature control and stays warm even when wet, plus it helps ward off odor.
Fleece Weight
In addition to the total product weight, we will sometimes reference a fleece’s fabric weight. The standard measurement for fleece weight is grams per square meter, or g/m². Fleece is usually grouped into one of three categories—lightweight, midweight, and heavyweight—that are determined by g/m². Generally, lightweight fleece is between 100 and 200 g/m², midweight lands between 200 and 300 g/m², and heavyweight fleece comes in north of 300 g/m².
While a fleece’s g/m² will give you a starting point in figuring out if the entire product is heavy or light, or breathable or not, there are plenty of other design factors at play that determine performance and comfort. This can range from fleece technology (Patagonia’s unique zig-zag R1 Air comes to mind) to fabric weave and material blend (read our review of the Patagonia R1 Air Hoody).
Not all fleece jackets come with a hood—the popular Patagonia Better Sweater and Lightweight Synchilla Snap-T each lack one. However, any technical fleece intended to be worn as an outer layer features a hood, which provides easy, adjustable temperature regulation and protection for your head.
Unlike those on rain shells or some puffy jackets, the hoods on fleece jackets are not adjustable (with some rare exceptions). They’re designed to fit closely around your head, which is great for thermal efficiency, and achieve that snug feel with the help of a healthy dose of elastane in their stretchy opening. Many fleece hoods are also engineered to fit neatly beneath a climbing or ski helmet.
Fleece jackets are not meant to hold a ton of items—they’re light and stretchy enough to sag under the weight of bulky gear—but many have some combination of a small chest pocket and hand pockets. The most minimalist-minded models will often feature only a single zippered chest pocket, while heavier or lifestyle-oriented ones might have two hand pockets in addition to a chest pocket. These pockets can commonly hold a phone, small snacks, or a wallet and chapstick, but not much more than that.
Most fleece jackets feature a full-length zipper, but several outliers come in half-zip or quarter-zip, and pullover variations. There’s no correct answer in terms of what the best style is. Full-length zippers offer the most flexibility in terms of warmth and breathability, but add some weight and bulk for layering or packing away. Half- and quarter-length zipper models are more streamlined, and pullovers boast a set-and-forget simplicity. Pick the configuration that most appeals to you.
We always appreciate this nifty feature when we see it, especially on a performance fleece like Outdoor Research’s Vigor Grid. Thumb loops are openings near the cuffs of a fleece jacket’s sleeves that you can—surprise, surprise—put your thumbs through. Doing that anchors the sleeve around your wrist and provides coverage to your hands while leaving your fingers free. Thumb loops are great for days that are chilly enough to want more warmth around your hands but perhaps not cold enough for gloves. When you’re not using them, a well-executed design will go unnoticed as part of the fleece’s sleeve.
Casual fleeces, such as the Patagonia Better Sweater and Lightweight Synchilla Snap-T, are heavier and less breathable than models meant for true backcountry use. They’re less adaptable to changing conditions (especially mild weather and if you work up a sweat) and take up more space when you pack them away. They commonly lack features such as hoods and thumb loops. Technical fleeces, on the other hand, allow for versatile temperature regulation, are more form-fitting for better mobility and packability, and scrunch down to more compact sizes so you can stash them in your pack. These backcountry items are typically less insulated and won’t retain heat as well during sedentary activities, but the on-the-go performance of a fleece like The North Face’s Futurefleece or Patagonia’s R1 Air is quite impressive.
Fleece jacket fits can vary significantly, and it’s primarily tied to the category that they fall into: casual or technical. For casual environments, a relaxed, roomy cut is ideal—it’s restriction-free, cozy, and leaves space for layering over bulkier pieces like sweaters. These fits can lean boxy, but classic designs like the Patagonia Synchila Lightweight Snap-T nail the balance between comfort and everyday style. For technical applications, expect a trim fit that moves with you—ideal for active uses like hiking, climbing, and backcountry skiing—and allows for easy layering under a shell. Popular options in this space include the Black Diamond Coefficient and Patagonia R1 Air Hoody (for more, read our review of the R1 Air).
We’ve tested a wide price range of fleeces and found plenty of value around the $100 mark, including the Outdoor Research Vigor Grid ($120). Cozy, high-quality items that offer around-town style and above-average longevity are usually in the $100 to $200 range. And many of the most technically oriented models are $170 and up, like The North Face’s impressive Futurefleece ($170) or Patagonia’s proven R1 Air ($179). If you want to keep it real simple, though, you can save with a thinner and more streamlined design. Patagonia’s Micro D is a standout: the $69 quarter-zip may be light on features and look a little bland, but it’s well-made, cozy, and quite versatile.
Fleeces aren’t the best option for standalone use in frigid conditions—thick down jackets or true winter parkas are better-suited—but a heavyweight fleece can still pack a real punch. A design like Norrøna’s Trollvegen Thermal Pro is warm enough to wear over a simple base layer while walking in temperatures in the low 40s (unless you happen to run especially cold) and is perfectly serviceable as a resort skiing midlayer (to learn more, read our review of the Trollveggen Thermal Pro).
Logically, if it’s warm or you’ll be moving at a decent clip, the most effective models will be light fleeces that breathe well and won’t swamp you out. Products in this category include The North Face Summit Series FutureFleece (a standout for high-output activities) and the Outdoor Research Vigor Grid Fleece. Just note that these designs won’t offer much warmth if you stop to take a break.
No, fleece jackets are not waterproof. They’re often made of polyester or nylon/polyester blends that are hydrophobic, so they aren’t prone to soaking up moisture, but even light rainfall can cause water to sneak through the fabric. There are some “hardface” fleeces available, like Patagonia’s TechFace series, which have a DWR coating and a smooth exterior that will hold off precipitation for a bit longer. But even these lightly reinforced models are a far cry from a properly waterproof rain shell.
We’re glad you asked. Our sustainability team did a deep dive into this category and came back with eight criteria for fleece jackets, which span the product and brand levels. Patagonia is a clear leader in this space, and its Better Sweater and R1 Air received perfect 5/5 sustainability ratings. In addition, the brand’s Micro D and Synchilla earned scores of 4.7, with the Micro D getting an extra boost due to its use of solution-dyed yarns (read the full Micro D Sustainability Report). Aside from Patagonia, the good news is that a number of other brands have been making significant strides on the sustainability front, including REI Co-op, Norrøna, and Fjallraven. Every product on Better Trail gets a full sustainability analysis, and at the top of this guide, you can use our handy “Sort By: Sustainability” tool to see how they stack up.
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