Are you curious what the best menโs fleece jacket is? Iโve narrowed it down to 10 fantastic options.
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So far, the fleece jacket has stood the test of time. Understandably, itโs long been a choice for folks who wear athletic clothes, but nowadays, pretty much everyone has at least one.
At first, itโs hard to pinpoint whatโs so appealing about the fleece jacket. Itโs not a particularly fashion-forward piece, at least not compared to something like a polo shirt. And, unlike other garments associated with the outdoors, itโs not all that rugged.
But while the fleece jacket might not be the most stylish piece of outerwear, itโs intensely functional.
Fleece retains heat but is also lightweight and breathable, which makes it a particularly versatile fabric. This means that, depending on the thickness, a fleece jacket can serve as a standalone transitional item or layering piece (often a mid-layer).
And, of course, if youโre an avid outdoorsman, youโll get a lot of mileage out of a fleece jacket. The garment was originally designed with rock climbers and mountaineers in mind.
In short, unless you live along the equator, I think you need a good fleece jacket in your wardrobe. Thatโs why Iโve picked out 10 of the best fleece jackets available today.
Quick Take
Here are our recommendations from the list:
With vintage-style details like contrasting trim and a chest pocket, this jacket combines fashion with functionality through features like an internal wind flap and mesh-lined handwarmer pockets. For fleece beginners, it's a great choice.
This eco-friendly jacket is crafted from 100% recycled polyester, certified by GRS and bluesignยฎ. Its minimalist design offers versatility that suits any wardrobe.
This fleece Jacket, cut in a relaxed fit like a chore jacket, boasts a wool/polyester blend for exceptional warmth. With three outer patch pockets and a straightforward five-button placket, it offers enough room to layer over a button-down or sweater.
Read on for more info and the complete list…
The Best Menโs Fleece Jackets
Here are my top contenders for the best menโs fleece jacket title.
Best Full-Zip Fleece Jacket: Patagonia Men’s Classic Retro-Xยฎ Fleece Jacket
Patagonia founder Yvon Chouinard had a heavy hand in the invention of fleece. Along with textile company Malden Mills, Chouinard and Patagonia developed the fabric in the 1980s as a practical alternative to wool.
Since then, Patagonia has designed many of the most iconic fleece jackets, including the Classic Retro-Xยฎ Fleece Jacket. The Retro-X strikes a nice balance between sporty and casual with its regular fit and full-zip design.
The jacketโs contrasting trim and chest pocket add a bit of vintage flair, while the internal wind flap and mesh-lined handwarmer pockets bring the functionality. If youโre looking to dip your toes into the world of fleece, this is arguably the best place to start.
Best Starter Fleece Jacket: The North Face Denali Jacket
If someone asked you to picture a fleece jacket, youโd probably think of the Denali Jacket without knowing it. Itโs one of the best-selling fleece jackets of all time, and its popularity means youโve seen it everywhere, from coffee shops to corporate offices.
Made from 100% recycled polyester fleece, this wind-resistant and water-repellent jacket offers plenty of warmth. Itโs on the thicker side as far as fleeces go, which makes it a great solo outer layer for blustery days.
This literal heavyweight is a fantastic jacket for casual wear, but it isnโt the best choice for more intense outdoor adventures. If your trekking consists mainly of walking around the city, then the Denali will serve you well.
Best Budget Fleece Jacket: Everlane the ReNew Fleece Full Zip
Everlane has always been a solid brand for affordable and sustainable essentials, and The ReNew Fleece Full Zip is no different.
This lightweight jacket is made from 100% recycled polyester thatโs GRS- and bluesignยฎ-certified. In terms of design, itโs a lot more minimal โ and thus more versatile โ than many other fleece jackets, which means itโll fit right into any wardrobe.
Coming in at just under $100, the ReNew Fleece Full Zip is a budget-friendly option thatโs also easier on the earth, and thatโs pretty much a win-win situation. Itโs not meant for heavy-duty activity, but if you all need a casual fleece jacket, youโll be more than pleased with the ReNew.
Best Retro Fleece Jacket: Cotopaxi Teca Fleece Full-Zip Jacket
Want to embrace the retro vibe of the fleece jacket fully? Check out the Teca Fleece Full-Zip Jacket from Cotopaxi.
The Teca is full zip with two handwarmer pockets and a stand collar, but thatโs where the specs end. Although itโs pretty spartan compared to the other jackets on this list, the Teca is an excellent choice for casual wear or less demanding outdoor activities.
And like most Cotopaxi products, the Teca is sustainably made using 100% recycled polyester fleece and taffeta. The jacket is currently available in eight colorways, but Iโm partial to the Polaroid-esque striping of the Bodyboard variant.
Best Upgrade Fleece Jacket: Fjรคllrรคven Keb Fleece Hoodie
Fjรคllrรคven has gained something of a cult following for its elegantly designed and functional products. If youโre wondering what all the hype is about, just take a look at the brandโs Keb Fleece Hoodie.
This unassuming piece is a streamlined take on the fleece jacket that uses Fjรคllrรคvenโs signature G-1000 fabric. Recycled polyester, traceable wool, and organic cotton make up the total fabric composition, making the Keb another sustainable option.
Itโs also undoubtedly stylish in a low-key sort of way โ and, of course, itโs built for the outdoors. Itโs a bit pricier than most fleece jackets, but itโs worth considering if youโre on the hunt for an understated fleece that can take a beating.
Best Investment Fleece Jacket: Norrรธna Falketind Warmwool2 Stretch Zip Hood
After a premium fleece that will last you for years to come? Check out the falketind warmwool2 stretch Zip Hood by Norrรธna, a Norwegian outdoor company getting more stateside attention (and rightfully so).
The Falketind jacket uses Norrรธnaโs warmwool2 fabric, which combines polyester, wool, and elastane for durability, warmth, and flexibility. The snug collar and diving-style hood offer protection from everything from chilly winds to heavy snow.
Like all Norrรธna products, itโs sustainably made in Lithuania, and over half of the fibers used are recycled. The Falketind is a formidable choice for a breathable, moisture-wicking, and functional endgame fleece jacket.
Best Weather-Resistant Fleece Jacket: Patagonia Men’s R1ยฎ Air Full-Zip Hoody
We rarely include two items from the same brand in a roundup, but Patagonia just does fleece so well. While the Retro-X from earlier is a good all-around choice, the R1 Air Full-Zip Hoody is ideal if you need a performance jacket.
The R1 uses a 100% recycled polyester jacquard fleece thatโs lightweight, quick-drying, and moisture wicking. (Itโs also a lot cozier than other performance fleece fabrics.)
Since itโs designed for high-exertion activities, the R1 keeps you warm while still being breathable, so you wonโt overheat if the temperature drops. It just might be the best mid layer fleece you can buy.
Best Multipurpose Fleece Jacket: Arcโteryx Kyanite Jacket
For a fleece that can hold its own around town and on a climb, look no further than the Kyanite Jacket from outdoor giant Arcโteryx.
The Kyanite boasts a well-rounded list of specs, including a four-way stretch fabric, a brushed interior, and an abrasion-resistant nylon face. Weighing in at 13.8 oz, the jacket provides ample warmth to keep you cozy โ but itโs not the best choice for intense activity.
Depending on the weather, you can easily wear the Kyanite as a midlayer or standalone outer layer. This is a jacket of all trades (pardon the pun), so the Kyanite is tough to beat unless you have specific needs.
Best Fashionable Fleece Jacket: Universal Works Field Jacket in Orange Wool Fleece
If you like the idea of a fleece jacket but prefer a workwear-inspired look, the Field Jacket from Universal Works may be your new favorite layering piece.
Cut in a relaxed fit that resembles a chore jacket, the Field Jacket in fleece features a wool/polyester blend for maximum warmth. It has three outer patch pockets and a simple five-button placket, and itโs loose enough to layer over a button down or even a sweater.
Even though the Field Jacket isnโt your typical fleece jacket, it has a lot to offer, especially for guys who donโt have an especially athletic personal style. As of this writing, itโs available in six colors.
Best Lightweight Fleece Jacket: Black Diamond Men’s Coefficient LT Hybrid Hoody
If you find most fleece jackets too thick and bulky, consider the featherweight Coefficient LT Hybrid Hoody from Black Diamond. At just 7.2oz (205g), this jacket weighs half as much as the average fleece.
Since itโs so light, the Coefficient LT Hybrid compresses easily and takes up barely any space in a pack. And with performance features like thumb loops and underarm gussets, itโs sure to hold up to rigorous activity.
The Coefficientโs lightness means itโs best used as a layering piece in milder conditions. The Coefficient should be on your shortlist if you need a technical fleece to wear while running, climbing, or generally tackling the outdoors.
Fleece Jacket FAQ
Need some quick answers about fleece jackets? Here you go:
Are fleece jackets good for winter?
Typically, fleece jackets are most effective during winter as a mid layer thatโs worn under a thicker shell or coat. Of course, this depends on where you live. Fleece jackets can also be worn solo during milder weather.
Keep in mind that material composition and fabric weight will determine how warm a fleece jacket is. Generally, the heavier the jacket, the warmer it will be.
What are fleece jackets made of?
Fleece is generally made from polyester (virgin or recycled). Some fleece jackets use other materials like wool and cotton, but most fleece jackets are almost all polyester.
Is fleece vegan?
If the fleece is made completely from polyester, itโs 100% vegan. Some fleece blends do include wool, which isnโt vegan โ so make sure to check the material composition before you buy.
Is fleece waterproof?
By itself, fleece is not waterproof. However, many fleece jackets feature waterproof or water-resistant finish. A non-waterproof fleece jacket can also be supplemented with a waterproof or water-resistant outer layer.
Conclusion: Be Ready for Anything With a Fleece Jacket
Even if youโre not a mountaineer, a fleece jacket is one of the most practical layering pieces you can buy.
If you live in a relatively chilly climate, youโll benefit from having a warm, comfy fleece to pull out when things get brisk.
Pair a fleece with a good winter parka, and youโll be able to withstand all but the most arctic of temperatures.
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