The Best Fleece Jackets of 2024: Staff Picks

Time outside is way more fun when you aren't sweating through layers or heading indoors to warm up. That's where a solid fleece comes in. This hard-working layer traps heat and breathes well, so you can stay toasty on cold days without overheating. Arguably, the best fleece is the one that's tailored to your tastes and adventures. It's the little things—like whether it has a hood, the location of its pockets and how heavy it is—that make all the difference when it comes to comfort and functionality. Choosing the right style (such as pullover, half zip or full zip), weight (light or mid) and texture (hard face or brushed) can go a long way.To make your decision a little easier, we talked to our retail staff and poured through customer reviews to pinpoint the best fleeces of 2024. So, whether you're adventuring in the backcountry or running errands around town, you can move in comfort.Staff PicksFind our quick recommendations here or read on for our staff and co-op members' favorite fleece jackets.Best Fleece Jacket for Hiking: REI Co-op Hyperaxis Fleece Jacket 2.0Best Pullover Fleece for Backpacking: Patagonia R1 PulloverBest Fleece Jacket for Skiing: Arc'teryx Kyanite AR HoodieBest Women's Fleece Jacket for Everyday: Cotopaxi Teca Fleece Full-Zip JacketBest Men's Fleece Jacket for Everyday: KUHL Interceptr Full-Zip JacketFleece Jacket Buying AdviceWhy should I buy a fleece jacket?You should consider a fleece jacket for two reasons: First, it's a versatile option for wearing with jeans around town on colder days. Second, fleeces make solid mid layers for outdoor adventures because they're highly breathable, quick drying and tailored for easy layering.A fleece can be part of a layering system that features a breathable base layer and a windproof or waterproof shell on top. Adding a fleece between the base layer and the outer layer can help you stay warm on cold days.If you're hiking in the fall or spring, a breathable fleece can help you stay cozy when you're just starting out, or when you stop for a snack at the summit. The only downside: Fleeces typically aren't windproof (though some have a finish that makes them wind-resistant). On extra blustery days, pack a shell.Of course, fleeces are also great for things like running errands, jogging to and from the gym or spectating a sporting event on a dry day when temps are on the cooler side.What makes a fleece jacket "good"?Your fleece should be warm, breathable and, depending on your needs, wind resistant. Prioritize one that fits close to your body (to trap heat and layer easily) and offers enough stretch to move with you.Typically, fleeces come in brushed and hard-face models. Hard-face models like the Co-op Hyperaxis are typically a little more durable and offer wind protection. Brushed fleeces like the Cotopaxi Teca are often cozier but can get caught on brush and are more prone to pilling.What's the best way to wash a fleece jacket to prevent pilling?Pilling occurs when the fabric balls up on the surface and looks worn. To avoid this, don't wash your fleece until you really need to.Additionally, fleece and other mechanically treated fabrics may shed microfibers at higher rates than other fabrics (though all textiles shed to some extent when laundered), according to a study funded by REI. Microfibers are tiny strands of fabric, smaller than the width of a single piece of hair, that can remain in the environment for decades. Most of the plastics in the ocean are microfibers. Washing garments less often can help reduce this impact (as well as save energy and water). If you're especially concerned about microfiber shedding, another step you can take is to use a front-loading washer with a microfiber filter or to use a washing bag.Should I waterproof my fleece jacket?Nope! Simply grab a wind or waterproof shell to throw over your fleece, and you'll be set for a drizzly day.Our ProcessWe asked REI Co-op staff, members and customers to share their favorite fleece jackets. They reported back with their top choices for everything from hiking to backpacking to running errands around town. These are the best fleece jackets currently available at REI.Related ArticlesMaterial Science: The Art of LayeringLayering BasicsWhat to Wear HikingWhat to Wear BackpackingStaff Picks: The Best Base Layers