No matter the time of year, fleece always comes in clutch, whether you’re wearing it as an outer layer at the campsite or a mid-layer for skiing. Most fleece styles are breathable, quick-dry, and lightweight, but there are some key differences between different types of fleece to consider before picking one up. We’re going to break down all the options in this guide to help you pick the best fleece jacket, pullover, or vest for you.

Heavyweight Fleece

The warmest option available, heavyweight fleece, like the styles in our Teca Collection, are typically made from polyester, and in our case, recycled polyester. Here are a few things to keep in mind about this max warmth fleece:

• Most commonly used as an outer layer over a baselayer or shirt
• Still somewhat breathable, but locks in more warmth than a lightweight fleece
• If you want maximum core warmth, but your arms run hot, consider a heavyweight fleece vest.
• Ideal for: Camping, backyard bonfire hangs, mellow hikes, and mountain town living

Midweight Fleece 

For warmth without the bulk, turn to midweight fleece, which is usually also made from polyester. Midweight fleece, like our Abrazo layers, are also quite versatile:

• Perfect mid-layer on colder days, or outer layer on warmer spring or fall days 
• More packable and lower profile than a heavyweight fleece 
• Ideal for: Spring and fall dog walks, neighborhood bike rides, and summer camping

Lightweight Fleece 

If you’re looking for a lighter layer for everyday wear, consider a style like our Amado, made from recycled polyester—it’s low-profile, breathable, and packable. This style of fleece is:

• Great as a stand-alone layer for warmer days or higher-output activities 
• Also works as a mid-layer for colder days and casual wear 
• Ideal for: Traveling, spring and fall hikes, adventures where you’re counting grams (e.g., backpacking or ski mountaineering) 

Active Fleece 

Looking for a layer that punches well above its weight? Turn to a performance-oriented fleece, and look no further than our Otero styles. 

• Grid pattern traps more heat and makes it more breathable and packable
• Grid also works as a form of wicking technology, which pulls moisture away from your body making it feel warmer and dry quicker
• Typically costs more than standard fleece
• Ideal for: Cross-country or backcountry skiing, running, and rock climbing

Need a little more warmth for your active pursuits? Check out our Capa Hybrid, built with breathable, grid fleece sleeves and a recycled, synthetic insulated core.

Hybrid Fleece 

If you’re looking for a little more warmth for your active pursuits, check out our our Trico Collection, featuring a mix of fleece and quilted insulation, or our Capa Hybrid, built with breathable, grid fleece sleeves and a recycled, synthetic insulated core. In general, hybrid layers like these:

• Have a similar effect to wearing a vest but with a little more coverage
• Feature quilted insulation (usually synthetic) to keep your core warm
• Have fleece/nylon sleeves that deliver breathability and range-of-motion
• Ideal for: Dog walking, bonfire lounging, and people who overheat easily

Hopefully, this sets you up with the information you need to find the perfect fleece this season. For many of us, one fleece isn’t enough, so consider whether you want to invest in two or three fleece styles to keep you warm on all your cooler weather adventures.

And now that you've found your dream fleece, learn how to take good care of it.