The fleece jacket has become an outdoors essential. Not just for those looking for adventures in the wilderness but for anyone who wants to feel the benefits of this supremely practical and cozy item of clothing.
Usually made from 100% polyester, the fleece jacket works because it’s the perfect combination of warmth and comfort in one easy-to-wear garment. Many of us slip a fleece on as soon as we feel the cold and they are great for whatever you’re doing outside, not least because they are durable, easy to pack and a cinch to wash afterwards. They are great to throw on when heading out for any reason or can be layered under waterproof coats for hikes in any weather. Generally, fleeces aren’t designed to be water-resistant. Warmth is obviously crucial when wearing these items. It often comes down to the weight of the fabric used but look out too for elasticated cuffs, high collars and full zips to add extra protection against the cold. Here are the fleeces we’d recommend.
Columbia Men's Steens Mountain Full Zip 2.0 Fleece
Ultra-soft and toasty
Keep the cold out with a collared neck and zippered closure on this Columbia fleece. It’s made from ultra-soft 100% polyester MTR filament fleece which delivers the perfect amount of warmth on cool days. Two zippered side pockets will keep your items safe outdoors.
The North Face Men's Gordon Lyons Full Zip Jacket
Eco-fabric and generous fit
The North Face make this fleecer from a sustainable recycled fabric blend. So it’s good for the environment as well as being soft and warm. The fit is designed to allow for layered warmth underneath. The full-front zip and stand-up collar will keep out cold.
Marmot Men's Drop Line, Lightweight 100-Weight Sweater Fleece Jacket
Lightweight and feature-packed
Marmot has designed this lightweight fleece jacket for easy hikes and everyday wear. Its 100-weight fleece is warm and comfortable with flatlock seams stopping chafing. The DriClime-lined collar wicks moisture away. On the chest, a zippered pocket has a media port for wearing headphones without hassle.
Amazon Essentials Men's Full-Zip Polar Fleece Jacket
Keeps cold out for less
With its high collar, full-zip front and side seam pockets, this Amazon Essentials fleece jacket has everything you expect when you’re looking for a quality fleece. Zippered pockets keep small items safe and elasticated cuffs give a close fit. It can be worn as a cold-weather essential or a comfy base layer.
Bottom line
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Everyone needs a fleece jacket in their closet, from arctic adventures to dog walkers. Make sure you have a good, durable and comfortable one that will keep you warm year after year and always be a pleasure to pull on and zip up when you feel a chill in the air. The fleece we would recommend for most people is the Columbia Men's Steens Mountain Full Zip 2.0 Fleece. This is a quality item with a good design and fit. It’s comfortable to wear and reassuringly warm.
If you want a great value fleece that delivers well above its price tag, the Amazon Essentials Men's Full-Zip Polar Fleece Jacket is a good pick. It’s a class act with all the features you’d expect at a much lower price than you’re used to paying.
