12 Best Fleece Jackets In Australia + How To Choose
Perfecting the best layering system for your adventures can be a frustrating task full of sweaty days on the trails and freezing nights at camp. And in that, one of the most challenging layers to perfect is the fleece jacket.
A fleece jacket comes in many styles, from the iconic fluffy and cosy fleece pullovers to a lightweight and ultra-thin fleece jacket that is boss at keeping your core temperature regulated while you’re gallivanting across the outdoors.
But the question is, which is the best fleece jacket for you and how do you even begin to sift through the multitude of options available?
That’s where we come in! We’ve spent many days in the outdoors testing various fleece jackets and fleece pullovers and have combined our experience with deep research to bring you the ultimate guide to choosing the best fleece jacket in Australia.
In this post, you’ll find a list of the best fleece jackets for hiking, plus we’ve included simple explanations about the components of a fleece jacket and handy tips to help you make your decision.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase of a product we recommend through one of our links, we may make a small commission at no extra cost to you! This helps to support our blog and enables us to continue providing you with helpful tips and exciting adventures, so thank you 🙂
How To Choose The Best Fleece Jacket For Your Adventures
What Is A Fleece Jacket?
Simply put, a fleece jacket is a lightweight and breathable mid-layer that keeps you warm and comfortable while you’re adventuring. Fleece, aka polar fleece, is predominantly made of synthetic polyester and is designed to mimic the qualities of wool without the weight or itchiness.
A fleece jacket or pullover is a staple item in any outdoor adventurer’s wardrobe. It excels in wicking moisture, keeping you warm even when wet and dries incredibly fast compared to cotton. There are various styles of fleece jumpers to suit all needs, making it the ultimate mid-layer, especially due to their comparative affordability and ability to keep you comfortable in every application from hitting the town to the trails.
Define Your Adventure Style
The first step in choosing the best fleece jacket is to determine the intended use for your new fleece. Along with a number of styles, there are also different weight categories that will influence the overall warmth and performance of a fleece jacket.
Questions to ask yourself before diving into the deep pool of fleece options.
- Where do you predominantly intend to wear your fleece?
- What are the most common climates you expect to find yourself in?
- What are the main activities you will be engaging in with your fleece?
- Are you looking to buy a fleece for hiking or casual wear?
Understanding what you need out of your fleece jacket will help you narrow down your search and ultimately find the best-performing choice for your adventure style.
Quick Buyers Guide For Choosing The Best Fleece Jacket For You
- Look for a fleece jacket that has been constructed with recycled polyester for a more sustainable option
- Fleece jackets are categorised into three weights that depict the warmth of the fleece, these are lightweight (aka microfleece), midweight and heavyweight
- Performance fleeces can often provide more weather resistance with the addition of a durable outer layer
- High-loft fleece jackets can provide more warmth and increased comfort, but don’t pack down as small
- Full zip fleece jackets are generally easier to manage on backpacking trips
- Look for a fleece without a hood if you plan to wear it as a mid-layer underneath your down jacket and rain jacket
Types Of Fleece Jackets
A fleece, aka polar fleece, can come in many styles and categories. The styles range from a fleece hoodie to a pullover and can be designed with high loft (fuzzy, thick and cosy) or low loft for a more brushed and streamlined style.
The main two categories for a fleece jacket are performance and casual. While each style of fleece can essentially be divided into these two categories, there will be some overlapping.
Performance Fleece
A performance fleece, or technical fleece, will often be designed to fit snugly and have added stretch for increased mobility. The overall weight of a performance fleece is generally lower and a strong focus will be put on breathability, making technical fleeces the ideal choice for hiking or backcountry skiing – basically any high-energy outdoor sports.
Casual Fleece
Most fleeces you come across will fall into the casual category, some slipping into both casual and performance. A casual fleece jumper is generally focused around comfort and warmth while continuing to stay lightweight and breathable – especially compared to cotton.
The best thing about a casual fleece is its versatility, you can happily transition from the mountains to the streets thanks to the stylish designs and layering capabilities.
Fleece Jumper Warmth And Weight Ratings
The warmth capabilities of a fleece jacket can be determined by the fabric weight. Just like you’ll find with base layers, a fleece is often categorised by the density of its fabric. These categories are lightweight (aka microfleece), midweight and heavyweight.
Lightweight / Microfleece
A lightweight fleece (aka microfleece) jacket’s fabric weight will range from 100 – 190 g. You’ll find most performance-based fleeces are lightweight, making them ideal for high-exertion activities where breathability is paramount.
Midweight
The fabric weight of a midweight fleece jacket ranges from 200 – 290 g. It’s the most popular and versatile choice, providing a good warmth-to-weight ratio and sufficient breathability while keeping you warm on cool days as an outer layer or as a mid-layer under a shell for cold weather.
Heavyweight
A heavyweight fleece jacket has a fabric weight of 300g and above and is the ideal choice when warmth is the greatest concern. While the overall weight is often higher, this is the fleece you want as your mid-layer when you’re camping in near-freezing temperatures or as an outer layer for cool Australian winters.
As you may have guessed, there are various other components that contribute to the overall warmth and breathability of a fleece jacket. But this is a good starting point and even if you can’t find the fabric weight information, checking the overall weight will also give you a basic guide to the potential warmth and breathability of the jacket in question.
Overall Weight And Packability Of Fleece Jumpers
The overall weight of a fleece jacket can vary drastically, ranging from 150g to 600g. As an example of the fluctuation, a basic budget-friendly lightweight fleece jacket will be between 200 – 300g but a lightweight performance jacket can be upward of 300g due to increased durability and wind resistance. However, there are some exceptions such as The North Face Summit Futurefleece which is a performance lightweight fleece weighing an impressive 176g.
Weight isn’t much of an issue if you’re simply planning to wear your fleece casually. However, if you’re searching for the perfect fleece for hiking and backcountry expeditions, it’s worth factoring in the weight and packability of the fleece.
Generally, the lighter the fabric weight, the lighter the overall weight of a fleece jacket. But there will be exceptions and unfortunately, the weight doesn’t necessarily reflect packability either.
Packability is most commonly linked to the loft of the jacket and how tightly woven the fabric is. For high loft (fuzzy and cosy jackets) you’ll often receive a bulkier garment, but if the fabric is tightly woven and brushed (most common with performance jackets) then you can expect the overall packed size of the fleece to be smaller.
Materials
The most common material you’ll notice – other than simply 100% polyester – is various Polartec technologies. Polartec invented the modern fleece in 1981 and since then has created countless technologies for a range of applications. You can find additional information on some specific technology listed in the materials of each fleece below by following the link provided.
For the fleece jackets that don’t use Polartec, you might find additional materials such as elastane/spandex for increased stretch to allow better movement or a wool blend for added warmth.
Another word you may find being thrown into the material description is microfleece. This basically refers to lightweight fleece jackets weighing under 200 g. Microfleece fibres are thinner than the average fleece, which increases breathability, moisture wicking and results in a more compact garment.
Weather Resistance Of Fleece Jackets
The general purpose of fleece hoodies is to be worn as a mid-layer to increase warmth without sacrificing too much on breathability. While it’s common to wear a heavyweight fleece as a stand-alone for mild to cool conditions, fleece jackets are not designed to protect from wind or rain.
That said, there are exceptions to this rule. Some fleeces, such as the Mammut Aconcagua ML, are constructed with a tougher fabric or nylon outer layer for increased protection from wind. And some are coated in DWR (durable water repellent) to prolong dryness in sudden rain.
However, even the most protective fleece jacket is no substitute for a rain jacket, which should always be included in your layering system for protection against wild weather.
Breathability
By nature, fleece jackets offer superior breathability due to the tiny air pockets that sit between the threads – this is also the reason for their lack of protection against wind.
As a general rule of thumb, a lightweight fleece will be more breathable compared to a midweight or heavyweight fleece – unless the lightweight fleece in question has been designed for wind resistance.
Fleece’s with added wind-resistant fabrics will almost always cause lowered breathability.
While some jackets attempt to provide the best of both worlds when it comes to breathability and weather resistance, it’s best to decide which factor is more beneficial to you and make that your number one priority.
Durability Of Fleece Jumpers
Fleeces are relatively tough – especially compared to down jackets – and will withstand a fair amount of abuse before beginning to show signs of wear. If durability is one of your highest priorities, choose a fleece jacket with a nylon outer layer or durable overlays on high-wear areas – as you’ll find on the Zorali 1/4 Zip Fleece.
On another note, fleeces are susceptible to pilling, which is more noticeable in high-loft fleece jackets. This doesn’t necessarily affect the durability of the jacket but can affect the look. The only way to prevent pilling, as much as possible, is to care for your fleece and follow the wash instructions on the garment.
The Fit
Fleece jackets vary in style and cut depending on the intended use. Most performance jackets will be form-fitting with added elastane for better mobility and stretch. Casual fleece jackets are often designed with a loose fit for increased comfort.
An exception to this rule is the increasingly popular relaxed fit hooded performance fleece like the Zorali Air Grid Fleece. This style offers the best of both worlds, with the same level of breathability as a form-fitting fleece but with the comfort of a well-loved hoody.
This subject is entirely subjective and the choice you make will likely depend on where you plan to wear your jacket. But ultimately, stretchy form-fitting fleece jackets are ideal for high-exertion activities as they allow the best mobility and layering potential. But if you predominantly want to wear your fleece around town and the campfire, a generous fit is often most comfortable.
Features Of A Fleece Jacket
A fleece jacket is quite a basic design with minimal features, but there are a few that deserve an explanation to help you make the best decision for your adventures.
Pockets
Zippered pockets are extremely useful whether you’re exploring the backcountry or the streets. In most cases, fleece jumpers will be equipped with hand-warmer waist pockets and sometimes an added chest pocket for your phone.
For climbers and mountaineers, look for zippered pockets that are situated above the waist, as you’ll find on the Mammut Aconcagua ML Jacket, so they’re accessible when you’re wearing a harness. This is also handy for hiking so you can warm your hands while wearing your backpack.
Thumb Holes
You’ll often find thumb holes on the sleeves of some performance fleeces for increased warmth or to prevent the fleece from riding up during your adventures. While thumb holes aren’t overly necessary, I have used the ones on my XTM Backcountry Hybrid Jacket on a few occasions for extra warmth, and they work a treat.
Zips
The most common fleece’s are either a fleece pullover with a half zip or a full zippered fleece jacket. While there are other options available such as fleece hoodies, the former dominate the hiking market.
A fleece pullover is generally slightly lighter in overall weight and more affordable, while a full zip fleece jacket often has additional features such as stretchy side panels and hooded options.
This is another component that is solely based on personal preference but we have found that a full zip jacket is often easiest to take on and off while hiking.
Hoods
Most full zip fleece jackets will have a hood or no hood option. I’m a big fan of hoods as I find they’re fantastic at increasing warmth and comfort. However, if you’re planning to wear your fleece as a mid-layer underneath a down jacket and rain jacket then three hoods might be a bit cumbersome. In this case, I’d certainly rather forfeit a hood on a fleece over a down jacket.
Loft
The level of loft (or pile) varies considerably between each fleece design, with the highest loft (remember, fuzzy and soft) found most commonly in casual fleece jackets. Generally, performance fleeces will have less loft (low pile) and more of a brushed look.
Again, this is a personal choice that matters very little to the overall performance of the jacket. In saying that, high-pile jackets will often be thicker and less compressible compared to a low-loft fleece jacket, hence affecting the packability characteristics.
Sustainability
By nature, fleece jackets are not sustainable. They are traditionally made of synthetic petroleum-based polyester that sheds microplastics (through pilling) into the environment over its lifetime.
That said, we’re noticing more and more brands producing fleece jackets made from recycled plastic bottles rather than raw materials. While this isn’t perfect as the production still creates greenhouse gases, it does reduce them drastically and helps remove additional waste in the world.
To choose the most sustainable fleece jacket, keep an eye on the material used – recycled is best and Bluesign Approved fabric is second. Take a look at our guide to the best sustainable outdoor brands next to learn more about how you can shop sustainably.
Fleece Jackets Vs Down Jackets
While a fleece jacket and a down (or insulated) jacket are both marketed as mid or outer layers for outdoor adventures, they are considerably different in our opinion.
A down jacket is an essential piece of gear in the great outdoors, offering a superior warmth-to-weight ratio compared to fleece. However, it’s worth noting that down jackets are less breathable and more fragile, making them less suitable for hiking but more favourable during rest stops on mountain peaks or at camp.
On the flip side, a fleece jacket provides excellent breathability and durability, designed to withstand encounters with rocky terrain and branches. This makes it an optimal choice for hiking as it offers better resilience and allows for temperature regulation.
Personally, when embarking on outdoor trips, we equip ourselves with both a fleece jacket and a down jacket. During cool hikes, we layer the fleece jacket over our 170 Merino tees, and once we reach camp, we add the down jacket for added warmth. In case of challenging or freezing weather conditions, we complete the ensemble with a waterproof jacket to shield against wind and rain.
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The Best Fleece Jackets In Australia
Fleece Jacket Comparison Table
| HIking Shoe | Price | Category | Weight | Fleece Weight | Material | Sustainable |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rab Graviton | $225 | Performance | 396g | Midweight | Recycled polyester | 96% Recycled |
| North Face Summit Futurefleece | $270 | Performance | 176g | Lightweight | Futurefleece | 45% Recycled |
| Zorali Air Grid Fleece | $140 | Performance / Casual | 280g | Lightweight | Microgrid Fleece | 100% Recycled |
| North Face Retro Denali | $300 | Casual | 500g | Heavyweight | Polartec recycled polyester-knit fleece | 100% Recycled, PCF Free |
| Patagonia R1 Techface | $300 | Performance | 298g | Lightweight | Polyester / Spandex Blend | Recycled, Blue-sign Approved |
| XTM Performance Milanesia / Marengo | $100 | Casual / Performance | 246g | Lightweight | Recycled Seawool PET, 40% Polyester microfleece | Recycled, carbon-neutral |
| Zorali 1/4 Zip Fleece | $150 | Casual | 589g | Midweight | Recycled Polyester Fleece, Recycled Nylon | 100% Recycled |
| Patagonia Synchilla Snap-T Pullover | $180 | Casual | 363g | Midweight | recycled polyester fleece | 100% Recycled, Fair Trade |
| Arcteryx Kyanite | $330 | Performance | 365g | Midweight | 53% polyester, 38% nylon, 9% elastane | Bluesign approved, fair-wear |
| XTM Performance Solo | $120 | Casual | 456g | Heavyweight | Recycled Anti-Pill Fleece | 100% Recycled |
| Macpac Tui | Casual / Performance | 230g | Lightweight | Polartec Micro Fleece | 100% Recycled |
1. Rab Graviton Fleece Hoody
Best All-Rounder / Winter Performance Fleece Jacket
The Rab Graviton fleece hoody is a feature-rich performance jacket that does it all. It not only offers incredible warmth, breathability, moisture-wicking properties and unrestricted movement, but it’s also designed to blend in on the streets for casual wear as well.
There is a lot of competition for this style of fleece jacket, but we think that Rab has done an incredible job at balancing all the features you need in the mountains, without going overboard with an out-there technical design. Furthermore, the Graviton Fleece Hoody is far more affordable than many of its competitors like Arcteryx’s Kyanite and Fjallraven’s Keb Fleece.
What they’re good for
The Rab Graviton Fleece Hoody is the perfect choice for anyone seeking a versatile jacket for both adventures and everyday life. This midweight jacket is mighty comfortable and performs exceptionally as a winter mid-layer or a spring/autumn outer layer for hiking in New Zealand and Australia.
Price: $225 AUD
Fleece Weight: Midweight
Overall Weight: 396g
Material: Thermic G (225gsm) Grid backer recycled polyester fleece (96% recycled polyester, 4% elastane)
Category: Performance
Sustainability: Recycled material
Features
- Form-fitting slim fit style for ease of layering
- Comfortable close-fitting hood that fits underneath a helmet
- Wide collar for added comfort and warmth in windy conditions
- Zippered hand warmer waist pockets and a zippered chest pocket
- The front zipper is equipped with a chin guard for extra comfort
- Set-in sleeve construction and underarm panel to enhance freedom of movement
- Dropped hem for increased warmth and comfort while wearing a harness or a backpack
- An elastic edging around the cuffs and the hem increases wind protection and warmth
Positives
- Very versatile and easy to layer
- High-quality build
- Great warmth-to-weight ratio
- Affordable for a technical fleece
Negatives
- The slim fit might be a bit tight for some to use as a casual jacket
- No thumb holes
2. The North Face Summit Futurefleece Jacket
Best Ultralight Performance Fleece Jacket
The North Face Summit Futurefleece jacket is the ultimate lightweight jacket with a staggering overall weight of just 176g! This performance fleece jacket boasts an impressive warmth-to-weight ratio and has all the bells and whistles you’d expect from a mountaineering and climbing-focused mid-layer.
The only downside to this North Face fleece jacket is the lack of pockets, but as its primary function is as a mid-layer, this can be overlooked in favour of the lighter weight.
What they’re good for
The North Face Summit Futurefleece is the ultimate lightweight jacket for high-exertion activities. No matter if you wear it as an outer for cool autumn hikes or as a mid-layer for alpine adventures, you’ll stay thermoregulated and comfortable thanks to the innovative technology and flat-lock stitching.
Price: $270 AUD
Fleece Weight: Lightweight
Overall Weight: 176g
Material: 124g/m² Futurefleece – 55% polyester, 45% recycled polyester
Category: Performance
Sustainability: Partly recycled
Other Style Options: None
Features
- Slim fit with flatlock seams in key areas for increased comfort when layering
- No shoulder seams to reduce bulk and increase comfort while wearing a backpack
- Underarm gussets for improved mobility
- Pre-tensioned elastic hood for a secure fit beneath a helmet
- Zippered chest pocket with internal mesh
- Flat-sewn elastic cuffs with thumb holes for extra warmth and comfort
Positives
- Very lightweight
- An incredible amount of warmth for its thin design
- Provides exceptional comfort as a mid-layer without annoying bulk
Negatives
- Getting expensive
- No waist pockets
3. Zorali Air Grid Fleece Pullover
Best Stylish Performance Fleece
The Zorali Air Grid Fleece is not only an incredibly comfortable and stylish lightweight pullover, it’s also one of the best performance fleeces on the market. The microgrid fleece design provides exceptional air flow and breathability without compromising warmth.
But that isn’t the only reason to love this fleece. Zorali is one of the most sustainable Australian outdoor brands out there and the Air Grid Fleece is constructed with 100% recycled materials.
What they’re good for
The Zorali Air Grid Fleece will be your favourite go-to for any hiking adventure, whether it be as an outer layer for cool weather hikes or a mid-layer for winter expeditions, this lightweight and stylish fleece has can have a permanent spot in your hiking backpack.
This is Dylan’s favourite performance and casual fleece that he never leaves behind. To read more about why he loves it so much, check out his honest review of the Zorali Air Grid Fleece next.
Price: $140 AUD
Fleece Weight: Lightweight
Overall Weight: 280g
Material: 100% recycled microgrid fleece
Category: Performance/Casual
Sustainability: Recycled material
Features
- Slim, relaxed fit that allows for easy layering
- Offset shoulder seams to avoid any friction while wearing a backpack
- High-stretch material allows for unrestricted movement
- Adjustable hood with high neckline for increased wind protection
- Massive kangaroo pouch pocket
- Flat-sewn thumb holes for extra warmth and to keep to hoody in place
Positives
- Very lightweight and breathable
- Great warmth-to-weight ratio
- 100% recycled materials
- Tough design with high-quality craftsmanship
- Very affordable for a performance fleece
Negatives
- No zippered pockets
- Thumb holes are a little tight
4. The North Face Retro Denali Fleece Jacket
Best Fleece Jacket For Warmth
For the ultimate comfort and warmth, you can’t beat The North Face Retro Denali Fleece Jacket. This iconic jacket has recently been updated to the Retro version, which is constructed of a warm 360 gsm 100% recycled polyester and a durable PFC-Free DWR coated nylon overlay covering the most highly worn and exposed areas for increased protection and durability.
The North Face Denali fleece jacket is built to last with thick and durable material and is packed with warming features such as a pull cord on the hem, elastic cuffs and medium to high loft. This new design is also equipped with pit zips to keep you regulated on easy winter walks.
What they’re good for
While the Denali North Face Fleece jacket isn’t the best option for a multi-day hiking trip as its packability and weight are quite cumbersome, the Denali will be your favourite go-to for everyday wear and camping trips throughout winter.
Price: $300 AUD
Fleece Weight: Heavyweight
Overall Weight: Approx 500 g + (Exact weight unknown)
Material: Body: 360 gsm 100% recycled polyester Polartec Overlay: 100% recycled nylon with PFC-free DWR finish
Category: Casual
Sustainability: Recycled material
Other Style Options: Women’s Denali Fleece Cropped Pullover, Women’s Denali Hooded Jacket, Men’s Denali Fleece Vest
Features
- Relaxed fit
- Dual zippered waist pockets and two zippered chest pockets
- 1/4 Zip with wide collar for added comfort and warmth
- Durable nylon overlay over arms, chest and shoulders for increased durability and weather resistance
- PFC-free DWR finish over the nylon overlay for extra protection
- Pit zips for increased breathability
- Hem cinch cord and elasticated cuffs for extra warmth
Positives
- Extremely warm
- Highly durable
- Stylish for everyday wear but durable enough for adventure activities
Negatives
- Women’s version is cut short, which may not be appealing to all
- Baggy fit in the arms makes layering difficult
- Heavy and bulky
5. Patagonia R1 TechFace Fleece Jacket
Best Overall Performance Fleece Jacket
The men’s Patagonia R1 TechFace Jacket and the women’s R1 CrossStrata are the answer to your technical adventuring needs. Constructed with an abrasion and weather-resistant outer and soft and cosy fleece inside, you’re afforded the best of both worlds with this high-performance lightweight fleece jacket.
You’ll find all the necessary features in this stretchy and breathable jacket, including an adjustable hem and harness-compatible handwarmer pockets. Not to mention, the R1 TechFace contains 69% recycled fabric, the R1 CrossStrata contains 90% recycled fabric, and both products are Fair Trade certified sewn and Bluesign-approved.
What they’re good for
The Patagonia R1 TechFace and R1 CrossStrata Jackets are your ultimate go-to for high-intensity activities such as climbing and hiking. The highly breathable and stretchy materials allow for exceptional range of movement, while the abrasion and weather-resistant outer fabrics allow for high versatility in the ever-changing mountain conditions.
Price: $300 AUD
Fleece Weight: Lightweight
Overall Weight: 298g
Material: Men’s: 147g/m² 92% polyester (69% recycled)/8% spandex breathable stretch double weave with a DWR finish | Women’s: 167g/m² 90% recycled polyester/10% spandex breathable stretch double weave with a DWR finish
Category: Performance
Sustainability: Recycled material, Bluesign Product, Fair Wear
Features
- Slightly slim fit for ease of layering over or underneath
- Zippered harness-compatible waist pockets
- Stretch fabric and design allows for a wide range of movement, including stretching overhead
- The hem is equipped with a dual-adjust cord lock system for extra warmth
- Snag-resistant low-profile cuffs provide versatile coverage and comfort
- DWR finish and abrasion-resistant outer for extra durability and weather protection
- Grid fleece on the inside of the jacket increases moisture management by wicking and drying
Positives
- Weather-resistant without the added bulk
- Highly versatile and comfortable
- Sustainably made
- Extremely durable
Negatives
- Sizing can be a little off for some
- The new design is a little more boxy than previous versions
6. XTM Performance Milanesia / Marengo Fleece Pullover
Best Budget Fleece
The women’s Milanesia and men’s Marengo microfleece pullovers are incredibly affordable compared to their construction and versatile use. Made with a blend of recycled PET bottles and responsibly sourced discarded oyster shells, the innovative Seawool technology is the beginning of finding a new source for fleeces rather than plastic.
On top of being sustainably made and comfortable, the Milanesia and Marengo fleeces boast surprising warmth for their very lightweight design, feature anti-bacterial and odourless properties, and dry in a flash!
What they’re good for
The XTM Milaneisa and Marengo microfleece pullovers are perfect for autumn hikes or a lightweight layer for balmy summer nights. We took these with us on our trip to New Zealand and Nepal, where they were invaluable for hiking, everyday wear and saving weight and space in our overflowing backpacks.
Price: $100 AUD
Fleece Weight: Lightweight
Overall Weight: 246g
Material: 180 gsm 60% recycled Seawool PET, 40% Polyester microfleece
Category: Casual/Performance
Sustainability: Recycled material, certified carbon-neutral product
Features
- Relaxed fit
- Men’s version has a zippered chest pocket
- Seawool technology features anti-bacterial and odourless properties
- 1/4 zip with soft zip port for extra comfort
- Flat stitch seams that avoid where a backpack sits to prevent any rubbing
- Rigid cuffs and hem to prevent the jacket from stretching out of shape
Positives
- Affordable
- Very lightweight
- Extremely quick-drying
Negatives
- The women’s version doesn’t have a zippered pocket
- Not as breathable as other lightweight options
7. Zorali 1/4 Zip Fleece Pullover
Most Sustainable Fleece Pullover
If you’re searching for an uber-comfortable and stylish casual fleece – that doesn’t break the bank – then you’ll love the Zorali 1/4 Zip Fleece Pullover. This cosy midweight high-pile fleece offers exceptional warmth and additional weather protection thanks to the reinforced nylon shoulders.
But this fleece’s most striking attribute is its sustainability. Not only is it designed to be highly durable and long-lasting, but every aspect of the jacket except the zips is constructed with 100% recycled material – including all the trims!
What they’re good for
The Zorali 1/4 Zip Fleece Pullover is a much-loved casual fleece that can also double as an outer layer for winter walks or to keep cosy at camp. It’s quite heavy, so it’s not the most ideal option for multi-day hikes, but I still pack it for winter overnight adventures because the warmth and comfort are well worth the extra few grams!
If you’d like to learn more about how this pullover performs, check out my honest review of the Zorali 1/4 Zip Fleece.
Price: $150 AUD
Fleece Weight: Midweight
Overall Weight: 589g
Material: Main: 290 gsm recycled polyester fleece, Shoulders: 100% recycled nylon
Category: Casual
Sustainability: 100% Recycled
Features
- Relaxed, oversized fit for extra comfort
- 1/4 zip with soft and spacious collar
- Dual zippered waist pockets and a zippered chest pocket
- Reinforced nylon shoulders for added durability and weather resistance
- Elastic trim on the cuffs and hem to trap heat and prevent the fleece from getting out of shape
Positives
- Incredibly comfortable
- Large zippered handwarmer pockets keep valuables safe
- Extra weather protection over the shoulders
- Extremely warm while still feeling relatively lightweight and breathable
Negatives
- The chest pocket is too small, it can’t fit a mobile phone
- Quite heavy
8. Patagonia Lightweight Synchilla Snap-T Fleece Pullover
Best Casual Pullover Fleece
It doesn’t get more iconic than the Patagonia Lightweight Synchilla Snap-T fleece pullover. This well-loved midweight fleece is a staple item among many wardrobes and for good reason.
While you won’t find many features, including no hand pockets, the Synchilla Snap-T fleece is incredibly comfortable and warm. Plus, it’s constructed with 100% recycled synchilla fleece so you can feel good about your purchase.
What they’re good for
The Patagonia Lightweight Synchilla Snap-T fleece pullover is a favourite among outdoor adventurers as their everyday fleece. Its stylish and no-nonsense design makes it an easy item to throw on no matter the occasion and the low overall weight will make you forget you’ve even packed it in your day pack!
Price: $200 AUD
Fleece Weight: Midweight
Overall Weight: 363g
Material: 226g/m² 100% recycled polyester fleece
Category: Casual
Sustainability: Recycled material, Fair Trade certified sewn
Features
- Relaxed fit for extra comfort
- Nylon chest pocket flap and snap closure
- Nylon trim on the stand-up collar reinforces Snap-T classic look
- 100% recycled materials
- Elastic cuff and hem for increased warmth and wind resistance
Positives
- Extremely cosy
- Sustainably made
- Very durable
Negatives
- No waist pockets
- Sheds a bit
9. Arcteryx Kyanite Fleece Hoody
The Arcteryx Kyanite is another versatile midweight technical fleece that is similar to the Rab Graviton. While we think that the Kyanite is the most stylish of the two midweight performance fleeces, it sits lower than the Rab Graviton due to its high price tag and less sustainable construction.
With that said, the Arcteryx Kyanite is a top contender that is a favourite among many outdoor adventurers. It offers plenty of stretch and breathability for vigorous activities while looking casual enough to wear for post-adventure beers.
What they’re good for
The Arcteryx Kyanite Hoody is the perfect mid-layer for winter adventures in the backcountry or as a stand-alone outer layer for shoulder season alpine hikes. It’s another great choice for travel as it can be used across various applications.
Price: $330 AUD
Fleece Weight: Midweight
Overall Weight: 365g
Material: Polartec Power Stretch Pro – 53% polyester, 38% nylon, 9% elastane
Category: Performance
Sustainability: Bluesign Product, Fair Wear
Features
- Slim, close-to-body fit with four-way stretch material for unrestricted movement
- The outer fabric is constructed with abrasion-resistant nylon for added durability
- Low profile ‘Scubahood’ that fits underneath a helmet for increased warmth
- Spacious collar increases comfort when zipped up
- Dual zippered handwarmer pockets
- Raglan sleeves avoid pressure points on the shoulders
- An elastic border on the cuff, hem and hood provides a closer fit to prevent wind from getting in
- Soft-brushed chin guard and zip underlay for extra comfort
Positives
- Versatile style
- Great warmth-to-weight ratio
- Durable
- Exceptional range of movement
Negatives
- Expensive
- Not made with recycled material
- No chest pocket or thumb holes
10. XTM Performance Solo DWR Fleece Pullover
Best Budget Fleece Pullover
The XTM Solo DWR is a heavyweight fleece pullover that offers incredible comfort and a style that suits both the trails and the town. The 100% recycled fleece offers all the comforts you would expect from a heavyweight fleece in a comparatively light design.
This has been our go-to fleece jacket for over two years now and has held up incredibly to some serious abuse – which is especially impressive due to its ridiculously low price!
What they’re good for
The XTM Solo Fleece Pullover performs exceptionally in a number of applications from a warm mid-layer in snowy conditions to a breathable outer layer for winter hikes. It’s also stylish enough for everyday use with a timeless design that goes with everything.
Price: $120 AUD
Fleece Weight: Heavyweight
Overall Weight: 456g
Material: 300g/m² 100% recycled polyester anti-pill fleece
Category: Casual/Performance
Sustainability: Recycled material, certified carbon-neutral product
Features
- Relaxed fit
- Zippered hand warmer waist pockets and a zippered chest pocket
- PFC-free DWR coating for increased weather protection
- Zipper garage at the chin for extra comfort
- 100% recycled material
- Elastic cuffs and hem for increased warmth and wind protection
Positives
- Very durable
- Exceptionally comfortable
- Affordable
- Sustainable
Negatives
- A little pilling has shown after two years of heavy use
- Could have a little more length in the back
11. Macpac Tui Fleece Jacket
The Macpac Tui is a no-nonsense fleece jacket that is equipped with everything you need and nothing you don’t. The lightweight and sustainably made jacket is the second lightest on this list and provides great value for money while continuing to offer the high level of durability we can expect from Macpac.
The slightly form-fitting and block colour design makes the Macpac Tui the perfect fleece for many occasions and allows for ease of layering when winter sets in.
What they’re good for
The Macpac Tui fleece jacket is the perfect budget-friendly fleece for hiking. The lightweight and basic design provides enough warmth as a stand-alone jacket in summer and spring or as a mid-layer for colder expeditions.
Price: $150 $74 AUD
Fleece Weight: Lightweight
Overall Weight: 230g
Material: Polartec Micro Fleece 100% Recycled Polyester
Category: Casual/Performance
Sustainability: Recycled material
Other Style Options: Macpac Tui Fleece Pullover
Features
- Regular to slim fit reduces bulk and extra weight
- Zippered hand warmer waist pockets
- Men’s version has zippered chest pocket
- Raglan sleeves for better layering
- Soft chin guard over zip for increased comfort
- 100% recycled polyester and Bluesign-certified product
Positives
- Very lightweight
- Affordable for what you get
- Easy to layer
- Sustainably made
Negatives
- The women’s version doesn’t have a chest pocket
- Sleeves are a little tight for athletic builds
- The centre zip is slightly flimsy
Final Thoughts
If you can believe it, we’ve only scratched the surface of the multitude of fleece jackets on the market! Which is why it can be so hard to choose sometimes. We hope that by condensing your search to our top choices will help you find the best fleece jacket for your adventures in a fraction of the time!
We’ll leave you with a few things to remember…
Check the fabric weight before purchasing to ensure you’re choosing the warmth that you’re after, a lightweight fleece jacket won’t be warm enough as an outer layer for a winter afternoon. On another note, remember that a high-loft fleece can also mean increased shedding so be aware of this and care for your fleece as per instructed.
Have you got an absolute favourite fleece jacket that you swear by? We’d love to hear your reviews in the comments below, especially if your favourite isn’t on our list! And as always, please feel free to drop any questions you have and we’ll do our best to respond as soon as possible.
Happy Adventuring 🙂
