What to Look For in a Fleece Jacket

Fleece is a soft, lightweight synthetic fabric that traps air to keep you warm. It comes in a variety of thicknesses, weights and fabrics to suit your specific needs. Fleece is a great choice for outdoor activities and as an inner layer in cold weather. It can also be used as a light outer jacket when the weather is warmer. There are many different features of fleece that can make it more functional for different uses, including hoods, pockets and elasticity. It is important to look for these features when selecting a fleece to ensure you are getting the most out of it.

The term “fleece” originally referred to wool, but in the 70s a company named Polartec developed a process that mimicked the fuzziness of wool using polyester. Today, you can find fleece in a wide range of materials, from recycled PET plastic (which Patagonia was an early proponent of) to various wool blends.

A key consideration when choosing a fleece is its warmth-to-weight ratio and breathability. A heavier, thicker fleece will be warmer than a thinner one but it will not breathe as well, which can be problematic in some situations. Fleece with a high warmth-to-weight ratio is great for cold conditions, but if you’re going to be doing lots of strenuous activity, it may not be as comfortable or practical as something that breathes more easily.

The insulation properties of fleece depend on the thickness and the way it is woven. Higher quality fleece is generally more densely woven and has a better stitch count, which helps it retain its shape and insulating qualities. It’s also important to check the care label of your fleece, as it may require dry cleaning or other special treatment.

When it comes to care, it’s best to wash your fleece separately from other clothing items so the fibres don’t rub together and create friction that will reduce its insulating capabilities. A machine wash with cold water, a mild detergent and no fabric softener is recommended. Do not wring the fleece, and let it air dry rather than putting it in the dryer. If you want to iron it, use a very low heat setting and be careful not to melt the polyester!

It is always good to consider the environmental impact of your clothes, and fleece is no exception. It is made from non-renewable resources and typically requires a chemical coating to make it windproof or waterproof, which can be harmful for the environment. To minimize your impact, you can purchase fleece that is made from recycled materials or that has been treated to be both green and durable. In addition, look for fleece with trusted sustainability certifications and product certifications to confirm that the materials were ethically sourced and processed according to rigorous environmental standards. You can also help to lower the environmental impact of your fleece by avoiding overwashing it, as this will shorten its lifespan and make it less efficient at keeping you warm.