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How to Choose a Fleece

How to Choose a Fleece

03.01.2022 | Hiking Buying Guides

A fleece is a versatile item of clothing that everyone should have in their wardrobe. Find out why and how to choose the perfect fleece for you in our fleece clothing guide.

What is fleece?

Fleece clothing is made from a manmade synthetic fibre (not to be confused with the woolly coat of a sheep or goat!). Most fleece is made from 100% polyester.

Fleece clothing includes fleece pants and fleece gilets but more commonly refers to fleece jackets and tops. Fleece is the ideal material for a mid-layer as it is made from long lasting synthetic fibres that are able to trap air and keep you warm. Fleece tops are generally manufactured with different weights and varied technical features to suit different purposes.

 

Types of Fleece

Microfleece

Thin and lightweight microfleeces are a great mid-layer but are also ideal outerwear in milder weather.  A microfleece will provide a low level of insulation whilst the breathable properties make them perfect for active pursuits.


Montana Fleece

 

Weight is the key priority with this type of mid layer so you are unlikely to find features such as pockets or hoods. Microfleece should also wick away moisture from the skin naturally, which make this a good option for treks and other activities where you may find yourself sweating.

Our Montana Fleece is a best seller season after season because of its lightweight feel and effective insulating system.

Ideal for: General wear, walking or high energy activities such as running or skiing.

 

Mid-weight Fleece

The most versatile and common fleece type, a mid-weight fleece is ideal for every-day wear and for many different activities.

Mid-weight fleeces have a higher level of insulation, comfort and breathability than microfleeces.

Snowdon Melange Fleece

 

For example a mid weight fleece would perform well as an outer layer whilst on a country walk or as a warm layer under a waterproof jacket in the mountains.

Our Snowdon Melange for men and women is a popular mid-weight fleece. It is thick enough to keep you warm on a cool day but can equally be worn under a jacket for added warmth in the winter.

Ideal for: Everyday, climbing and mountaineering, or in conditions where you require ease of movement, flexibility and you do not need a lot of extra insulation as you will be producing body heat naturally.

 

Textured Fleece

Textured fleece comes in many forms, most often a waffle or fluffy fleece will be described as textured. Our Yogi Juniper and Yeti Snaggle textured fleece are super soft and perfect for keeping you warm on a winters day.

 

Teddy II Fleece

 

Ideal for: Every-day wear on cold autumn or winter days.

 

Common Features

Zip (Full and Half)
Fleece tops will have a full zip or a half zip that runs from the collar to partway down the chest. A full zip fleece unzips like a jacket and is ideal if you'll be removing layers often. A half zip fleece goes over your head like a jumper and opens at the neck.
Chin Guard
A chin guard refers to the fabric covering the top of the zip, it is there to protect your chin and neck from catching.
Adjustable Hem
A toggle lets you draw the hem in for a better fit. Adjustable hems are a feature of some of Mountain Warehouse fleece jackets.
Chest Pocket
A chest pocket is useful for stashing small valuables, especially when wearing as an outer layer.

Other Features

 

Anti Pill

When a fleece is described as anti-pill this means the fabric has been treated to prevent little balls (or pills) of thread appearing on the surface of the fabric. These balls of thread are mostly a result of abrasion when washing and drying. The anti pill treatment means the fleece will be bobble free for longer. Our Snowdon Fleeces are a popular choice if you’re looking for our anti-pill technology.

Snowdon Fleece

 

Windproof Capabilities

Some fleeces feature a windproof membrane within the inner lining. This membrane will stop wind penetrating the garment allowing you to stay warmer with the use of fewer layers. If you’re looking for a windproof option, we would recommend our Bernard Windproof Fleece.

Bernard Windproof Fleece

 

Explore more of our fleece wear for menwomen and kids.

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