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The secret to keeping warm lies in your layers, and a fleece is a prime piece of gear for the job. We tested the fleece jackets here in a range of temperatures, while lounging at home and charging through the outdoors, to understand their warmth and breathability. We layered them over t-shirts, baselayers, under down jackets, and hard shells to see how well they insulate us in the colder months.
We've spent the last decade testing more than 170 of the best fleece jackets on the market, with our top 10 favorites in this review. The best option for men is the Patagonia R1 Air Full-Zip Hoody. It has a great warmth-to-weight ratio and is breathable enough for active users. The Arc'teryx Kyanite Hoody is the best fleece for women. The midweight material is cozy and better at blocking wind than some of the other options.
If you're looking for a warmer layer, head over to our winter jacket review. If you're looking for something in between, a good softshell jacket hits the sweet spot between warmth, weather protection, and breathability.
Editors' Note: We updated this review on Jun 23, 2025, to add more specific usage recommendations and testing information on each jacket.
Who this is best for: The Patagonia R1 Air Hoody is an excellent addition to a cold-weather layering system. It is a breathable fleece jacket that works well during aerobic activities like climbing, hiking, or ski touring. Breathable is the keyword here, and if you're constantly on the move and looking for a lightweight layer that won't overheat, this one's for you.
Why we love it: The R1 Air works well when you're layering for a cold start. This hoody has a fantastic warmth-to-weight ratio and packs down small, making it easy to stash in your bag when it's time to shed. The recycled polyester fabric feels soft and moves moisture effectively if you start to sweat in the meantime. One of our testers explained, “I love the highly breathable design, which is ideal for active adventure. It's my go-to for heavy exertion during outdoor adventures.”
Should you buy it? The R1 Air isn't perfect for every use case. It doesn't offer much wind resistance, and if you're standing still in cold or gusty weather, you'll want to layer a windbreaker on top. I appreciate the snug fit of the under-helmet hood; it is warm and moves with me when I turn my head. However, some of my fellow testers felt it was a bit too tight for their liking. Still, for active movement in cold weather, this is the best men's fleece you're going to find.
While no jacket is perfect, the Patagonia R1 Air comes pretty close. It's the perfect warmth and weight to wear almost every day, whether on its own or under a heavier layer. It is still one of my most reached-for jackets.
Who this is best for: The Arc'teryx Kyanite Hoody impressed me with its comfort right off the bat, and solidified its spot as my favorite by the end of testing. The fluffy fleece lining kept me warm and cozy even when I wasn't moving a lot, and it's noticeably warmer and more wind-resistant than some of the other jackets I tested. It is an ideal option for women who prioritize comfort and warmth during low-output activities or chilly days outside.
Why we love it: Arc'teryx did something right when designing the material for this jacket. The fabric is soft, stretchy, and blocks wind well, which makes it great as a standalone jacket or as a part of a layering system. And thanks to a generous cut through the shoulders, I never felt that it restricted my mobility. The smooth outer fabric also resists dirt and debris and stays looking clean and fresh even after going through multiple cycles of wear, wash, repeat.
Should you buy it? If you're not the type to have a lot of downtime when you head outdoors, the Kyanite Hoody might be a bit too warm, and doesn't have the same level of breathability as some lighter-weight options. It isn't my first choice for hard-charging pursuits. On the flip side, it lacks thumb loops, and the main zipper is a weak point in a stiff breeze, but that doesn't outweigh the higher overall warmth rating of the material. Lastly, the cost of the Kyanite might make you hesitate; I won't deny that this jacket is pricey. Still, its cool-weather performance is unmatched, and when temperatures drop, this is the fleece I reach for.
The Ar'teryx Kyanite is incredibly warm and wind resistant for a fleece jacket. And it's comfortable whether I'm spending time on the trail or the couch.
Who this is best for: The Arc'teryx Kyanite Hoody is ideal for anyone who wants one fleece that can handle both outdoor adventures and everyday life. Whether you're climbing, hiking, layering it for skiing, or just heading out to walk the dog or grab groceries, this piece fits right in. I never got tired of wearing it. It's a solid choice if you value comfort and versatility and want something that looks stylish, too.
Why we love it: Similar to the women's version, the special part about this hoody is the fabric. It has a super soft feel, a relaxed fit, and offers a near-perfect balance of warmth and breathability. I really appreciate the stretch fabric and felt that the jacket moved easily with my body. One tester said, “I love the feeling of the material against the skin. It's breathable yet still warm. I could wear this all day, whether I'm out on the trail or just lounging at home.”
Should you buy it? The Kyanite does have some drawbacks. It pills a bit after just a couple of weeks of wear, which is disappointing to see in such a pricey product. The fit is a little on the baggy side for my preference, and while it has two hand pockets, I missed having chest pocket storage. The mid-weight fabric is a bit too warm for high-output activities, but for a warm fleece that feels great and looks good whether you're out in nature or downtown, the Kyanite is one of my top picks.
With the Arc'teryx Kyanite, you don't have to sacrifice style or function; it has best-in-class performance in both domains, but it also comes with a best-in-class price tag.
Who this is best for: The Patagonia R1 Air Hoody is perfect for women who move fast and want a fleece that can keep up. If you're into activities like trail running, climbing, or hiking in chilly conditions, the R1 hoody is light, breathable, and layerable. Just keep in mind it's designed for motion, not standing still in cold weather.
Why we love it: This fleece balances warmth and breathability really well for how lightweight it is. It packs down easily, feels soft against the skin, and doesn't get in your way when you're on the move. One tester shared, “I love how it keeps me warm while I'm active, and yet I never feel sweaty or restricted. It's a great performance layer.” The fitted hood offers added warmth when I need it, and the quick-dry fabric works well to wick moisture away from the skin. It also resists outside moisture if you get caught in a slight drizzle; however, it is far from waterproof, and if you know you'll encounter precipitation, you'll want to throw on a legit rainjacket.
Should you buy it? The Patagonia R1 Air Full-Zip Hoody isn't the best choice if you're going to be standing around in the cold or wind. It doesn't have thumb loops to keep the sleeves pulled down over your hands, and wind can sneak through easily. The cut is pretty slim, which might not work for all body types; curvier women may have a hard time finding a size that fits both their shoulders and hips. But if you're after a high-performance, lightweight fleece to wear while running, hiking, or any other fast-moving activity, this one's a winner.
The Patagonia R1 Air is warm, lightweight, and easy to wear. Although a strong breeze will cut through the fabric, this breathable jacket is a great option for high-output activities.
Who this is best for: The The North Face Canyonlands Hoodie is a great pick for anyone looking for a comfortable and versatile fleece that won't break the bank. It is supremely comfortable and is one of the warmer options I tested. If you need a midweight layer that works just as well on the trail as it does at the café, this hoodie's relaxed fit yet clean aesthetic makes it easy to wear in all kinds of settings, furthering its weartime and increasing the value.
Why we love it: This fleece scored high in our heat retention test; the material is thick, warm, and soft. While a smooth exterior gives the jacket more of a polished look, the interior has a cozy feel. One reviewer explained, “I appreciate the soft, next-to-skin feel of the brushed fleece interior, and found the relaxed fit comfy enough for any activity. I've worn it hiking, around town, and even to a dinner party — it's just that adaptable.”
Should you buy it? The perfect fit is highly dependent on body shape and style preferences. On me, the Canyonlands has a looser fit, which caused bunching around my wrists and made sizing a little tricky. If you prefer a trimmer profile, you'll want to check out other options. It's also a bit heavier, so it isn't the best choice for an ultralight kit. Still, for the price, the Canyonlands delivers impressive warmth and versatility, making it one of the best values among midweight fleeces.
The North Face Canyonlands Hoodie has a roomy cut and relatively thick material that makes this jacket warmer than average. Plus, it is a steal when compared with the cost of other fleece layers.
Who this is best for: The REI Co-op Flash Hyperstretch is a great fit for active folks who want a breathable, stretchy fleece and need to stay in budget. No matter your chosen sport, hiking, climbing, or any other fast-paced activity, this layer offers mobility and comfort at a price that's hard to beat. Its lightweight construction, quick-drying fabric, and easy packability make it an ideal go-to for mid- to high-intensity outings.
Why we love it: Despite its budget price tag, REI included some thoughtful features in this jacket. A chin guard, wind flap, and extended hemline (with a drawcord) all make this fleece more comfortable to wear. The generous cut in the shoulders and extra arm length help it move well during activity. One reviewer shared, “After wearing it for countless days climbing in sandy and rocky areas, I really started to appreciate the amount of stretch and breathability it had. I didn't expect this level of performance from such an affordable fleece.” It has a smooth exterior that easily brushes free from dirt and debris, and a brushed fleece interior that feels cozy against the skin.
Should you buy it? The Flash Hyperstretch isn't the warmest fleece out there, and it's not as wind-resistant as other options. If you're looking for something better at blocking the chill, a midweight style might serve you better, or you could go for an actual windbreaker jacket to layer over top. One other complaint about the Hyperstretch: after countless days climbing in areas with lots of sand and volcanic tuft, we couldn't help but notice permanent stains on the lighter colorways. Still, for budget-conscious adventurers needing an active layer, this fleece stands out as a great value.
Who this is best for: The Wrangler Authentics 1/4 Zip is perfect for anyone on a tight budget who still wants a basic fleece layer for casual use or light outdoor activity. It doesn't have many high-performance features, but it does the job and comes at a fantastic price. It works best in casual outdoor settings like car camping or a morning hike before heading straight into town for a coffee.
Why we love it: This fleece has a slightly roomier cut that doesn't look overly technical; in this case, I consider that a good thing. I appreciate that it feels just as appropriate at a restaurant as it does on the trail. It also surprised me with its breathability, and one of my fellow testers shared, “I couldn't believe how well this performed for such a low cost. It's not flashy, but I could throw it on for a quick hike or a run to the store and feel totally comfortable.”
Should you buy it? If you need a fleece for technical use or cold-weather layering, this isn't it. The Wrangler Authentics 1/4 Zip lacks pockets of any kind, and isn't very warm compared to some of the other (pricier) options I tested. But if your needs are more about comfort and simplicity, it's a solid pick. Especially for the price, the Authentics fleece is hard to beat.
Who this is best for: The REI Co-op Trailmade is my recommendation for women who are looking for a cozy, affordable fleece that works well as a casual outer layer or as part of a layering system. I wore it during hot and cold weather, and found that it's best for shoulder-season outings or for keeping warm while resting after more intense activities like surfing. It doesn't have a lot of techy features, but if you prioritize softness, comfort, and need to stick to a budget, this mid-weight jacket is worth a look.
Why we love it: In the end, this fleece won me over because it's just so wearable, whether I am lounging on the couch or squeezing in a hike before work. It has ultra-soft fabric and an easy stretch that never feels restrictive. It became my go-to because it feels barely there, like a warm hug that still lets me move around easily. Plus, it has big pockets that are a dream for stashing snacks or gloves. It hits a nice balance of warmth and breathability, and its lightweight feel makes it easy to wear all day, whether you're layering up or keeping things simple.
Should you buy it? The REI Co-Op Trailmade has a relatively small temperature window for which it is appropriate. I don't consider it breathable enough for intense, sweat-heavy activities, but it isn't cut out for really cold days either. For that reason, I would only recommend it for moderate activities and casual wear. It also started to show some pilling after I washed it a few times. But if comfort, value, and softness are top priorities, this is one of the best midweight fleeces out there at this price point.
Who this is best for:The North Face FutureFleece Full Zip Hoodie is perfect for cold-weather adventurers who usually stay warm by staying in motion, but need an assist every now and then. It is a high-performance layer that won't weigh you down, and can be used as a standalone layer or in combination with a rain jacket if you need more weather protection. If you're a fast-moving hiker or climber, or you like to tackle alpine routes in chilly conditions, this lightweight fleece is a great addition to your layering system. It's also ideal for anyone who prioritizes breathability and low bulk in their gear.
Why we love it: I love how breathable and warm this jacket is, especially for its featherweight feel, and my fellow testers agree. One shared, “Even on long uphill hikes and full mountain days, I never overheated. I stayed dry, warm, and didn't feel like I was in a sweat sauna like I do in heavier fleeces.” The full-loop fabric is soft against the skin, and the chest pocket is especially useful for keeping electronics safe yet accessible, while still protecting them from the cold, although I like having the additional storage option of hand pockets, which are not present on the FutureFleece.
Should you buy it? The FutureFleece Full Zip Hoodie isn't without flaws. Its cut is made for long and lean users. If you don't fit this profile, its unusual fit may leave you in between sizes. Otherwise, I can't find many reasons not to recommend this jacket. It's definitely an investment piece, but if premium performance in a featherweight package is what you're after, this is one of the most impressive lightweight fleeces we've tested. It's a jacket that practically disappears in your pack, but you'll always be glad you brought it.
The Summit Series UtureFleece is the jacket for when you //almost// don't need a jacket. The lightweight fabric breathes well while providing just enough insulation for an active wearer.
Who this is best for: The Rab Ascendor Hoody Women's review is a technical mid-layer that excels in breathability, and is best for climbers, hikers, and high-output adventurers who expect to sweat. It is a perfect layering piece, and almost disappears on the body. If you're someone who spends most of your time outside wearing a harness or a pack, you likely understand the importance of a jacket that layers comfortably under all the straps and buckles and even other jackets. The Ascendor prioritizes movement and moisture regulation and feels tailor-made for these settings.
Why we love it: This fleece impressed me with its lightweight feel and incredible thermoregulation. It doesn't add a ton of warmth as a standalone layer, but sometimes that's exactly what I need. One tester said, “I love the stretch and fit of the polyester-elastane blend, especially when rock climbing. It lets me stretch and move easily.” The helmet-compatible hood, roomy shoulders, and long cut in the arms and torso go the extra mile to make it reach-friendly (for all the climbers out there). It feels at home in any technical layering system, and when not on your body, it packs down small enough that it's a no-brainer to throw it in your pack.
Should you buy it? The Rab Ascendor Hoody isn't intended to be your go-to fleece for lounging or running errands. It cuts out a lot of convenience features in favor of technical performance; it's not very warm on its own, and it lacks hand pockets. If you're looking for something cozier or more versatile for around town, there are other options that offer more warmth and casual usability. But if you're looking for a fleece that shines in performance under a shell or with a harness, the Ascendor is our favorite technical mid-layer.
With lightweight and compressible fabric, I don't think twice about stashing the Rab Ascendor in my pack for a day out.
Credit: GearLab Team
How We Tested
The first step in our testing process involves scouring the market to make sure we select the most promising fleece jackets out there and stay up to date on the latest innovations. We repeat this process anew each year, and then we test the thread out of them. They go through several months of field testing that includes running, skiing, climbing, napping, lounging – you name it. We've tested the jackets in the dry air of Colorado, Wyoming, and Nevada and in humid, coastal environments in Hawaii, Canada, and California. We also bring each option into the lab to complete repeatable, objective tests, like dowsing each with water and comparing the softness and pile of each fleece. Learn more about how we test fleece jackets.
We assess each fleece jacket's performance in 5 key metrics:
Warmth
Comfort
Breathability
Layering Ability
Weight
Why Trust GearLab
Our women's and men's fleece jacket testing teams are stacked with people who live outside and like to stay warm while doing it. Heading up our women's review, Trish Matheny is a current member of the Yosemite Search and Rescue Team, and she spends the majority of her time out of doors, where it's an absolute necessity for her to select layers that offer the best performance to match current conditions. Whether trail running or climbing in the High Sierra, cragging at the local cliffs, or setting off for multiple days on a big wall adventure, Trish's experience has taught her the best ways to layer to safely and comfortably enjoy whatever activity she pursues. Amber King has 20 years under her belt as a climber, with experience adventuring from the North Cascades to Rocky Mountain National Park. She's also a science curriculum writer and outdoor educator who layers up when she climbs rocks, summits mountains, and runs rivers.
We have reviewed a wide variety of both men's and women's fleeces.
Zach Lovell leads the men's review team. Zach is an IFMGA Mountain Guide who utilizes fleece jackets year-round across the planet, whether guiding, climbing, or skiing. His former work in product development with outdoor brands gives him a unique lens through which to examine the pros and cons of fleece jackets and other wearables. He is assisted by Ben Applebaum-Bauch, who has over a decade of experience as a canoe, backpacking, and cycling guide throughout the American Northeast and maritime Canada. In his “spare” time, he has bagged more peaks than he can remember and thru-hiked a number of the long trails in the US, including the Continental Divide, Pacific Crest, and Colorado trails.
From pushing hard in the mountains to relaxing by the sea, a fleece will always earn its weight in your bag.
Credit: Gus Landefeld
How to Pick the Best Fleece Jacket for You
A fleece jacket is a staple of a great layering system, but how do you know which one to grab? There are several things to keep in mind — what kind of temps you'll encounter, how likely you are to work up a sweat, and whether you need your jacket to protect you from wind or rain. You'll also want to consider materials and durability. Additional features like hoods, pockets, and thumb loops are not essential, but they can drastically increase the functionality of a piece. Lastly, fit is one of the most important considerations, and the most individual. In this case, I'd advise you to “try before you buy” to make sure you're getting a jacket that works for your body.
Men's Fleece Jackets
The chart below shows the overall performance scores of the best men's fleece jackets we tested. You can find more details about our testing and review process in our best fleece jackets for men review.
Women's Fleece Jackets
Our team of expert GearLab female testers put all of women's fleece jackets through a similar gauntlet of tests to comparatively assess their performances. Those final scores appear in the chart below.
What Weight of Fleece Is Best?
As a standalone layer, fleece jackets serve as excellent outerwear when temperatures are mild. When the mercury plummets, they are also fantastic layering pieces, often sandwiched between thin base layers and outer layers like rain jackets or wind breakers. Warmth varies depending on the thickness or “weight” of the material, and the right weight depends on your local climate and chosen activity.
Testing the fleece jackets side-by-side helps tease out their relative strenghts and weaknesses.
Credit: Maggie Nichols
Lightweight
REASONS TO BUY
Typically more breathable, especially if made with gridded fabric
Good for long-distance adventures where cutting ounces is important
Layer easily underneath multiple other jackets
REASONS TO AVOID
Not warm enough for solo winter use
Same price as heavier jackets
As the name implies, lightweight fleeces are thinner and lighter and pack down smaller than their heavier counterparts. These jackets are ideal for high-intensity activities like trail running or climbing when there is a chill in the air, but you expect to work up a sweat. They also work well as a light outer layer when temperatures hover just below t-shirt weather. Beyond that, you'll want to add a windbreaker, rain jacket, or winter coat.
Most people want a lightweight layer in anticipation of mild temps or vigorous activity; in this case, breathability can be more important than warmth. If you start to overheat during a hike or run, you'll find that your base layers quickly become wet and clammy once you cool down. Manufacturers know this, and often, lightweight fleeces are made with some sort of specialty vapor release system built into the fabric.
Lightweight options like the North Face FutureFleece are breathable and packable.
Credit: Zach Lovell
Midweight
REASONS TO BUY
Good balance of weight and warmth for everyday use
Can be layered both over and underneath other jackets
REASONS TO AVOID
Bulkier than lightweight fleece without necessarily being warmer
Often do not come with a hoody option
Mid-weight fleeces are thicker and heavier, and they almost always hold more heat (though the occasional lightweight fleece gives them a run for their money with high-tech insulation). The downside is that the bulk of these jackets can make them cumbersome to move in and carry around, but they are usually still compact enough to wear under a more weather-resistant outer layer.
Like lightweight fleeces, mid-weight fleeces have a better chance of breathing well than heavyweight options due to the thickness and density of the fabric, but they are slightly cozier, and ideal for slower-paced adventures or everyday wear. We reach for these when heading out for meandering hikes, town tours, or relaxing around a campfire. If you want to maximize warmth but don't want to feel like the Michelin man when you layer up, you'll be happy with a mid-weight model.
Mid-weight layers are what most commonly comes to mind when you think of a fleece jacket.
Credit: Sarah Van Cleve
Heavyweight
REASONS TO BUY
Designed for cold winter weather
Layer well on top of other jackets
REASONS TO AVOID
Generally less breathable
Can be bulky, not well-suited to packing
Heavyweight fleece jackets are the heaviest and bulkiest of the trio. They don't work well as a mid-layering piece beneath other jackets. Rather, they are meant to serve as a standalone outer layer – think big, bulky, and warm. Since they are less versatile than other options, we only recommend these for cold weather or stationary activities where sufficient insulation is critical. If there's any chance you'll work up a sweat, you won't find the breathability you need here. Their bulk also makes it less appealing to shove them in a backpack for those “just in case” moments.
Heavyweight, high-pile fleece jackets can be thick enough to block wind.
Credit: Elizabeth Paashaus
Materials
Fleece was invented in 1981 by Polartec, then known as Malden Mills. Patagonia worked with the company to make an outdoor performance jacket that wouldn't hold as much water as traditional wool. The iconic Synchilla Snap-T fleece was first available for sale in 1985. Since then, the base insulating material has remained much the same, with different manufacturers adding their own twists to improve breathability, water resistance, etc.
A hot drink and warm fleece are always welcome when winding down an epic day spent outside.
Credit: Maggie Nichols
Things like a hard face fabric or strategically placed panels on the chest and shoulders can be used to improve weather resistance in some jackets. Others use a fabric that is thick and dense enough on its own to stop any wind. However, you'll only get true weatherproofing by layering a fleece under waterproof or wind-resistant shells. This more comprehensive layering style puts you in the driver's seat to regulate warmth and comfort while on the go.
Some fleece jackets integrate weatherproof features like a hardface exterior that beads water to help you shake it dry.
Credit: Matt Bento
Today, fleece jackets are made of synthetic materials like polyester, nylon, elastane, and, less frequently, spandex. Sometimes, these materials are recycled; occasionally, they include some wool. A few companies are working to build fleece fabric in ways that reduce shedding, but with repeated washing, synthetic fibers from these jackets become microplastics that end up in our water systems. You can reduce your impact by choosing a fleece with some wool, going longer between washes, using the gentle cycle on your washing machine, or installing a microplastic filter in your washer.
Fleece jackets that incorporate wool in their fabricnhave a few less synthetic microplastic fibers to shed.
Credit: Amber King
Durability
Fleece tends to be a sturdy material; however, at the end of the day, it is made of plastic fibers that can melt quickly, so be careful around the campfire. Other quality points to pay attention to are zippers and seams. Additionally, thinner, lightweight fleeces made to breathe well have less fabric, and by nature, can be more prone to wear and tear.
Features To Consider
The easiest way to improve the warmth of your fleece without adding bulk is by including a hood. If you're going to use your jacket primarily as an outer layer, it's nice to have one for unexpected encounters with chilly or windy weather. However, beware of hood overkill; if you often layer your fleece with other jackets, you probably don't need a hood on all three, so take a look at what's in your closet already.
Fleece jackets that feature hoods in their designs can create additional bulk in your layered system yet offer a substantial amount of warmth.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Thumb loops are another handy feature that some of our testers cannot live without. They help hold insulation and protect your hands from sun and wind exposure. While not as crucial as a hood, they can do a lot to make an outing more comfortable. We also love pockets, which are essential for keeping your hands warm and your valuables secure.
and a double zipper offers venting flexibility.
Thumbholes keep your hands warm and can help you keep your sleeves from bunching when you pull on another jacket.
Credit: James Lucas
Fit
As there are many unique body types, fit is highly subjective, but there are a few universal things to look for. The torso should be long enough to still cover your belly when you raise your arms, but not so long that it gets bulky around the hips. For curvier people, especially women, it can be nice to have a wider hem so your fleece doesn't ride up. Some hemlines are a bit longer in the back, have an elasticated hem, or an adjustable cinch, all of which can improve the fit.
Some fleece jackets have a long, slim, and fitted cut. Others have a shorter, boxier silhouette.
Credit: Cam McKenzie Ring
When testing shoulder fit, make sure you can easily reach your hands above your head. Jackets that offset standard seams (from the top of the shoulders to across your upper back) offer more room for broad-shouldered folks. Sleeve length should hit right at the wrist unless the jacket has thumb loops, in which case it should come down to your knuckles so you can use them without pulling the fabric tight across your shoulders.
Fleece jackets can be the perfect standalone layer for the change of season or the perfect midweight layer within your cold weather kit.
Credit: Daniel Ruffner
Conclusion
A trusty fleece can do wonders to help you perfect your layering system and keep you prepared for a wide range of weather conditions. From here, you can zero in on the perfect option, and if you're looking to cozy up after a busy day on the trail or at the crag, take a look at our favorite slippers for ideas on ways to outfit yourself just as comfortably at home.
