As the warmer days fade and the thermometer starts to drop, it's important to kit yourself out properly against the cold that will arrive, sooner or later. For this, fleece jackets are often the perfect choice, combining many advantages that we'll explore here. They are very often the ideal mid-layer for any sporting activity or simply for going about your daily life in the city.
What is a fleece?
So-called "fleece" fibres are used in garments of the same name (fleeces, which can have short or long pile), as well as in softshell jackets (a kind of windproof, water-repellent fleece — read our article on softshells). Fleece trousers, gloves and hats are also available. Fleece is sometimes used as a lining in certain garments. Fleece fibres are generally made from polyester, PET (polyethylene terephthalate) and other synthetic fibres (sometimes recycled).
The fleece jacket and its characteristics
Generally lighter than a softshell, a fleece jacket takes up very little space in a travel bag. Thanks to its simplicity, it can be worn as an outer layer when there is neither wind nor rain. However, it is also very practical as a mid-layer, especially when it's raining and it's worn under a waterproof garment. It is this use as a second layer that is particularly effective against the cold.
Made from synthetic material, fleece is available in different weights. Some models are heavier or lighter than others. Along the same lines, some fleeces are thicker and therefore provide much more warmth. One small drawback: the warmer it is, the less breathable it becomes.
Fleece comes in three different types:
The heavyweight fleece, with a density of 300 g/m², provides maximum warmth in winter conditions. Although it forms an effective barrier against the cold, it doesn't wick away perspiration efficiently enough. Its considerable thickness therefore limits the comfort it can offer. This model is not well suited to physical activities requiring a great deal of mobility.
The lightweight fleece, with a weight of 100 g/m². It is the most suitable version for wearing under a windproof or a jacket. It doesn't provide much warmth, but it offers far greater comfort thanks to its low bulk. It is also the ideal fleece for intense physical activities in the depths of winter (hiking, skating, etc.)
The mid-weight fleece is more breathable than the heavyweight fleece and provides more warmth than the lightweight fleece. More versatile than the other two, it can be worn as an outer layer when temperatures are mildly cool, just as it can be worn as a mid-layer in freezing conditions.
The advantages of a fleece jacket
There are many advantages to wearing a fleece jacket as a mid-layer as soon as temperatures start to drop:
- Highly breathable: it efficiently wicks away moisture and perspiration
- Dries very quickly: a natural ability linked to its breathability
- Excellent insulation: even when wet, a fleece jacket acts as a genuine thermal barrier
- Affordable: an accessible product with excellent value for money
- Easy care and washing
- Durable: a product that is very hard to damage and has a long lifespan
When should you choose fleece?
When choosing between fleece or softshell, the key criteria are practicality, functionality and comfort. Fleece is chosen for its versatility (worn as an outer layer in warmer seasons and as a mid-layer in bad weather or cold conditions). It works equally well for sporting activities and everyday use.
It also wins many fans for its cosy, soft feel. For some people, this is a compelling argument compared to other products such as down jackets or softshell jackets. It also remains relatively lightweight and compact, which is another reason to choose it when you want to save space in a travel bag or avoid carrying too much.
To gear up against the cold, check out all our extreme cold weather clothing.
