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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 fleece jackets in a range of temperatures, while lounging at home and charging through the outdoors, to understand their warmth and breathability.
For everyday wear that won't break the bank, our female test team loves the Columbia Benton Springs Full-Zip as a soft and warm zip-up fleece. Our male team loved the REI Co-op Trailmade, which is casual, affordable, and versatile enough for daily wear.
Over the past decade, we've tested more than 170 of the best fleece jackets on the market, with our top 10 favorites in this review. We layered them over t-shirts, baselayers, under down jackets, and hard shells to see how well they insulate us in the colder months. Read on to learn about our favorites.
Editors' Note: This review was updated on September 30, 2026, after retesting some favorite models from Arc'teryx and Patagonia.
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 looking for some extra insulation while rock climbing, trail running, hiking, or biking in cooler temperatures, you should definitely check out the R1 Air. It has long arms and more length in the torso for extra coverage. Although not the best for standalone warmth, we love the soft and cozy fabric that feels great next to your skin, whether you're moving in the mountains or chilling by the backyard campfire. The chest pocket is sized large enough for a smartphone or an energy bar. Just keep in mind, this fleece is designed for breathable warmth for bodies in motion, rather than standing still in chilly temperatures.
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. While it doesn't stow into a pocket, we found it easy to roll up and tuck into its own hood, reducing the space required in our daypack. 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 hood is large enough to pull over a ball cap or beanie while providing extra warmth for the neck and ears in high winds. For those seeking extra comfort in uncomfortable environments, this is a great consideration.
Should you buy it? If you're in the market for a high-quality, lightweight fleece jacket to wear on your next trail run, rock climb, hike, or bike ride—really any activity that has you working up a sweat-the R1 Air is a great choice. We even love it for lounging around; however, you'll want to toss a jacket on over it if you're venturing into cold weather where you're not exerting yourself enough to generate some body heat. Although a bit of an investment up front, we love wearing the R1 Air throughout the year and think it's the ideal layer to maintain comfort during fast-paced outdoor activities.
The Patagonia R1 Air Full-Zip Hoody is a fan favorite thanks to its comfortable fit and soft fabric that doesn't skimp on performance. It's great for women on the go, providing comfort and breathability while you're working up a sweat. Credit: Trish Matheny
Who this is best for: The Patagonia R1 Air Hoody is great for those seeking one fleece they can use all year long, from skiing to camping. It's comfy, mobile, and layers well, whether putting clothing on under or over it, so you can bring it along for a wide range of adventures no matter the temperature. This fleece also has a brushed polyester Z-pattern for venting, so you don't get too sweaty for cold-weather hiking.
Why we love it: The soft against-skin feel makes the R1 a very comfy layer, even if we were only wearing it in the office on a cold day in December. It also has a great cut that sits between relaxed and slim fit, with overhead mobility that doesn't lead to as much fabric bunching when carrying a backpack. “This was a go-to for everything from riding the chairlift at the ski area or heading to a family holiday dinner,” one of our men's leads shared, “and I also appreciated the under-helmet hood design.”
Should you buy it? If you don't need the lightest layer out there, the midweight R1 Air is a great choice. However, for high-heart-rate runs or mild-weather hikes, it doesn't have the highest breathability score, so you may want to look elsewhere for a more minimal on-the-go piece. The R1 Air's softer polyester feels great against the skin, but it also attracts dirt, pine needles, and hair, making it a bit unsightly for dinner hangs. Beyond these nitpicky qualms, the Patagonia R1 Air is phenomenal for a wide range of recreationalists, and the latest update even adds a chest pocket that fits a cellphone.
Who this is best for: If you love comfort, the Arc'teryx Kyanite Hoody should be on your list. This sweatshirt-like layer offers the wicking ability of a technical fleece without sacrificing that soft and cozy feel next to skin. It's an ideal option for women who prioritize being comfy and warm during low-output activities or chilly days outside. The high-quality design includes a thicker fleece construction, strategically placed seams, zippered pockets, and a cozy protective hood that is clearly built to last. If you don't mind paying more for a long-lasting piece of gear, we highly recommend the Kyanite for its all-around comfort and warmth during the change of season.
Why we love it: Arc'teryx nailed the design of this fleece — it essentially combines performance fleece with the ease and comfort of your favorite sweatshirt. Its fabric is soft and stretchy, and it works well as a standalone jacket or layered under another piece. “There's a generous cut through the shoulders, arms, and torso, so I never felt restricted or limited in range of motion, even when wearing it while rock climbing or trail running,” says our lead tester, Trish Matheny. This is Trish's go-to layer for long flights and travel days, thanks to the comfort and warmth it provides without requiring too much space in her carry-on. Arc'teryx thought of everything, from articulated patterning to flatlock seams that won't bother you while carrying a backpack. The smooth outer fabric also resists dirt and debris, keeping you looking fresh and clean even after multiple cycles of wear, wash, repeat. It's also the fleece jacket that we received the most compliments on, thanks to the classic look and fun color options.
Should you buy it? If you love the plush feeling of a warm and cozy sweatshirt, this is that on steroids. If you run hot or you're always exerting yourself on outdoor excursions, the Kyanite Hoody might be a bit too warm and doesn't have the same breathability as some lighter-weight options. The main zipper can be a weak point in a stiff breeze, but that doesn't outweigh the material's higher overall warmth rating. Lastly, we can't deny this high-performing jacket is pricey; however, when temperatures drop, it is the fleece we reach for most. We've tested many iterations of this layer over the years and can attest to its high-quality construction, built to last and offer a longer return on your investment.
Our testers love the Kyanite Hoody thanks to its soft and cozy interior that combines with technical features to provide excellent performance in exchange for your investment dollars. We get a lot of compliments when we wear this sweatshirt-style fleece around town or in the mountains. Credit: Trish Matheny
Who this is best for: The Arc'teryx Kyanite Lightweight Hoody is a great fit for anyone wanting a single layer for chilly days at a computer desk, coffee shop hangs, and outdoor recreation. It accommodates any overlayer, from puffy insulation to a shell jacket, and breathes well in all 4 seasons, regardless of the layering combination. The Kyanite Lightweight's clean exterior makes it uniquely suited for town settings, while its lightweight technical construction is at home on backpacking weekends or summit hikes.
Why we love it: We still can't get over how stretchy this layer is, making it one of the most mobile and comfortable fleeces we've yet tested. The interior of the Kyanite Lightweight is also brushed polyester, which makes it even cozier for chilly seasons when you want a layer on all day, even indoors. “For air travel or backpacking, this 10.8-ounce fleece is super packable, and I crammed it into even the tightest of spaces in my luggage and overnight bags,” Zach, our lead tester, shared.
Should you buy it? The Kyanite Lightweight may be stretchy, but it also has a fairly slim cut that may not be ideal for those who like a relaxed fit. Arc'teryx also left out an external chest pocket to give this fleece a cleaner aesthetic, which can be annoying if you like to keep your cell phone warm in the winter. Beyond that, this is a well-made fleece layer that favors breathability over maximum warmth, which is also what makes it so versatile.
Who this is best for: The Columbia Benton Springs Full-Zip is an affordable fleece that's great for casual outings around town, or dog walks during cooler temperatures, or hanging out at camp. It may lack technical performance, but it makes up for it with plush, cozy fleece that feels great against the skin. The relaxed fit makes it easy to layer tanks, T-shirts, and base layers underneath, while the zippered hand pockets offer plenty of room to stow essentials. We love the inclusive size range and the variety of color options (this fleece comes in a ton of colors), and it's perfect for those who want a soft, cozy layer and don't need a ton of techy performance features.
Why we love it: The Benton Springs quickly won over our testing team with its super soft fleece fabric that's warm and feels great next to bare skin. The relaxed cut is comfortable, making it an ideal layer for hanging by the fire or hitting the trails for a short hike after work. The relaxed fit and stretchy fabric make it easy to move, and the elastic cuffs are functional without feeling too tight or restricting movement. The hand pockets are lined with micro-fleece, a nice touch for keeping hands warm when we forget our gloves. Overall, we love this design for mellow days around the house, short hikes, or car camping in cooler temperatures.
Should you buy it? If you're on a tight budget yet unwilling to sacrifice warmth and comfort in your next fleece jacket purchase, we highly recommend the Benton Springs Full Zip. (Bonus: it seems to almost always be on sale in at least one color option.) For a midweight design, it remains relatively light in weight while providing excellent comfort next to skin. If you're after a technical, breathable fleece built to perform while exercising, this isn't the one for you. But for a casual, comfortable, affordable layer, it's hard to beat the Benton Springs.
The Benton Springs is the plush and cozy fleece jacket for lounging around or meeting up with friends on a chilly day. It's warm, comfortable, and comes in a wide variety of sizes and colors. Credit: Trish Matheny
Who this is best for: The REI Co-op Trailmade is best for casual outdoor use and everyday wear, especially if your adventures lean more relaxed than technical. This is a dependable fleece for activities like mellow hikes, neighborhood walks, or just layering up for a chilly autumn evening. If you're not pushing into high-output activities and just want a comfortable, good-looking fleece, this one fits the bill nicely. “I found myself often reaching for the Trailmade throughout the testing process over more technical layers while walking the dog or heading out to meet with friends,” our tester shared.
Why we love it: What we love most is its comfort and warmth. The fabric feels great on our skin, so it's easy to wear all day, and it offers a lot of warmth. Depending on your color selection, it has a versatile enough style to wear around town or on the trail. While the slightly baggier fit can make layering over it a bit awkward, it adds to that cozy, relaxed feel that makes this fleece so easy to wear.
Should you buy it? If you want an affordable, comfortable fleece for low-key outings and daily wear, yes, we think you'll be happy with the Trailmade. Breathability is somewhat limited, so we don't recommend it for high-intensity pursuits or warm-weather use, but for cooler days and lighter activity, it performs well and feels even better. Its blend of looks, against-skin comfort, warmth, and mobility makes it an easy decision for casual adventures — and best of all, it doesn't cost an arm and a leg.
Who this is best for: The Rab Ascendor Light Hoody is a favorite for high-output activities where breathability matters most. It's an excellent companion for uphill hiking, alpine climbing, warm-weather skiing or backcountry touring — any outdoor adventure where you're moving consistently and generating body heat. “If you tend to overheat in traditional fleeces, this piece is designed with you in mind,” one of our men's fleece experts commented.
Why we love it: The Ascendor Light offers good airflow, great range of motion, and enough comfort to wear all day. It's one of the few fleeces that we could keep on during sustained, high-effort missions without getting too swampy, and it still provides just enough warmth for cooler conditions. The fit is precise without being restrictive, allowing for excellent mobility while still leaving room for a light base layer underneath or an insulated jacket overtop.
Should you buy it? If you prioritize breathability and plan to use your fleece during active pursuits, absolutely. It's not the warmest standalone option, especially in winter, but that's by design—it excels as a performance layer rather than a cozy insulator. “I was happy in this layer for a wide variety of environments and activities, but especially when I needed to shed heat,” said Zach, our lead tester.
Who this is best for: The Amazon Essentials Full-Zip Polar Fleece is best for bargain hunters who just need something simple, functional, and warm without spending too much of their hard-earned cash. It's a great pick for casual use—think running errands, walking around town, or layering up for a low-key day at the ski hill. “If you don't care about premium materials or a tailored fit and just want solid basics, this hits the mark,” one of our fleece experts commented.
Why we love it: What we love most is the sheer value. At a price that's a fraction of most fleece jackets, it still delivers impressive comfort against the skin, a surprisingly good range of motion, and enough warmth for everyday wear. While the relaxed fit can feel a bit roomy—especially through the torso—it contributes to that easy, unrestricted feel. For the price of a quick meal, it's hard to find something that performs this well.
Should you buy it? If your priority is getting the most warmth and comfort per dollar, put this in your shopping cart. It's not the most refined or athletic-fitting fleece out there, but the performance-to-price ratio is tough to beat. “If you want something lightweight or more breathable, this isn't it, but this fleece is well worth a look if you're shopping on a particularly skinny wallet,” our men's lead concluded.
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: 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? For budget-conscious adventurers seeking an active layer, this fleece stands out as a great value, and we don't think you'll be disappointed. Though it's not the warmest or most wind-resistant fleece out there, it's great for rough-and-tumble activities in the outdoors where you need great range of motion. If you're looking for something better at blocking the chill, a midweight style might serve you better. One other complaint about the Hyperstretch: after countless days climbing in areas with lots of sand and volcanic tuff, we couldn't help but notice permanent stains on the lighter color we tested.
The REI Co-op Flash Hyperstretch is among our favorite fleece jackets for its affordable price point and technical features. Many jackets with this level of performance cost twice as much. Credit: GearLab Team
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's a great 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 alpine adventures. “When climbing in the alpine later in the season, this was the perfect layer between my sun hoody and lightweight puffy when moving for extended periods at elevation,” says lead tester Trish Matheny.
Why we love it: This fleece impressed our testing team with its lightweight feel and incredible thermoregulation. When wearing in the alpine, we were impressed by how quickly it dried at the belay, even if we overheated a little bit while climbing. It doesn't add a ton of warmth as a standalone layer, but sometimes that's exactly what you need. 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). The updated design includes two zippered pockets that are great for storing essentials; however, they are not easily accessible beneath your harness. That said, 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 as to whether or not you should throw it in your pack.
Should you buy it? If you're looking for a fleece that shines when it comes to performance under a shell or with a harness, the Rab Ascendor is our favorite technical mid-layer. It's not intended to be your go-to fleece for lounging around or running errands. It cuts out a lot of convenience features in favor of technical performance; it's not very warm on its own, however, the updated design does include the thicker 235-weight polyester fabric throughout, and even includes zippered hand pockets in addition to a large chest pocket. If you're looking for something cozier or more versatile for around town, there are other options that offer more warmth and casual usability.
The Rab Ascendor Hoody is a great layer for women on the move. The highly breathable design now features zippered hand pockets with its most recent update, and was our tester's favorite layer for alpine climbing objectives in the High Sierra. If you need a midlayer that's great for working up a sweat on the hill or in the gym, the Ascendor is a great fleece jacket to consider. Credit: Trish Matheny
How We Tested
The first step in our testing process is staying up to date on the latest innovations and scouring the market to select the most promising fleece jackets. We repeat this process each year, then put the thread to the test. 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 dousing each with water and comparing the softness and pile of each fleece.
We assess each fleece jacket's performance in 5 key metrics:
Comfort
Warmth
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. Trish Matheny heads up our women's review. She is a current member of the Yosemite Search and Rescue Team, and she spends most of her time outdoors, where it's essential to choose layers that perform best in current conditions. Whether trail running or climbing in the High Sierra, cragging at 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 also contributed to this review. She 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.
From pushing hard in the mountains to relaxing by the sea, a fleece will always earn its weight in your bag. Credit: Gus Landefeld
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 for examining the pros and cons of fleece jackets and other wearables. In the cooler months, he wears fleece from the moment he wakes up until he goes to bed, and he loves working in this gear category.
We have reviewed a wide variety of both men's and women's fleeces through a variety of objective tests in order to determine the best of the best.
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 aren't essential, but they can drastically increase a piece's functionality. Lastly, fit is one of the most important considerations, and the most individual. We 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 men's fleece jacket review.
Women's Fleece Jackets
Our team of expert GearLab female testers put all women's fleece jackets through a similar gauntlet of tests to compare performance. The chart below shows the final scores.
Fleece Weights
As a standalone layer, fleece jackets work well as outerwear in mild temperatures. When the mercury plummets, they are also fantastic layering pieces, often sandwiched between thin base layers and outer layers like rain jackets, windbreakers, or puffy jackets. Warmth varies with the thickness, or “weight,” of the material, and the right weight depends on your local climate and chosen activity.
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
Lightweight fleeces are often thin, lightweight, and pack down small. 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. If temps really dip, you'll likely want to add a windbreaker, shell jacket, or insulated coat.
Most people want a lightweight layer for mild temps or vigorous activity; in that case, breathability can matter more than warmth. If you start to overheat during a hike or run, your base layers can quickly get wet and clammy once you cool down. Manufacturers know this, and lightweight fleeces often include 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
Sometimes 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 breathe better than heavyweight options because of the fabric's thickness and density, 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. Credit: Zach Lovell
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 and less packable
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 them less appealing to shove into a backpack for those “just in case” moments.
Heavyweight fleeces like The North Face's Retro Denali are great to wear on their own for standalone warmth. Credit: Trish Matheny
Why Wear a Fleece Jacket?
There are dozens of jacket sub-classes available today, but fleece jackets stand out as a near-base-layer garment class that offers some warmth, but isn't meant to replace a puffy jacket or a rain shell; it's meant to go underneath. These are often some of the most comfortable layers available, and most of our testing team uses these fleeces as a foundational part of their clothing system. If the weather turns stormy or arctic, we simply add insulation and/or weather protection. Fleece can also be worn on its own in moderate spring or fall temperatures, and many GearLab experts log hours at their computer desks in these jackets in cool temperatures.
From fall hikes with the dog to mid-winter office days, the fleece is a great foundational layer for many climates. Credit: Zach Lovell
Fleece Materials 101
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.
The Patagonia Synchilla is a classic fleece offering retro vibes. 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.
The North Face Denali's chest panel helps repel some wind and water. Credit: Trish Matheny
Today, fleece jackets are made of a blend 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.
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 purchasing one with 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 can't 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 having an array of pockets, which are essential for keeping your hands warm and your valuables secure.
Thumbholes help keep your sleeves in place and your hands toasty. Credit: Ben Applebaum-Bauch
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.
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.
A fleece jackets can be a standalone layer for the change of season or a midweight layer within your cold weather kit. Credit: Trish Matheny
Conclusion
A trusty fleece can do wonders for 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.
