The UK weather changes faster than you can check the forecast. That’s why smart layering is essential. Choose lightweight, versatile clothing that keeps you warm without weighing you down — perfect for those chilly surprises.
Most people think of fleece as a soft zip-up layer that’s somewhere between a jumper and a jacket — but that’s only part of the story. Fleece comes in many styles and thicknesses, offering comfort and warmth even in freezing conditions. So, what does fleece actually look like? Does its weight make a difference? And why is it such an effective insulator?
We have the answers to all of your burning questions below, so c’mon, and get your fleece on!
What is Fleece Fabric Made Of?
The main benefit of fleece material lies in its ability to trap body heat and maintain consistent warmth. This synthetic fabric is typically made from polyester, a man-made fibre derived from petroleum-based products and often created using recycled plastic. Polyester fleece is also known for its durability and resistance to moisture, making it a practical choice for cold-weather layering.
In the past, natural wool garments were the go-to for anyone looking to combat the cold and stay warm outdoors. However, due to its mass availability and affordability, fleece has since become favoured over wool as it’s warmer and generally much more lightweight.
The fleece material is still modelled on natural wool to achieve the ultimate comfort blanket texture that will never let you down in the cold.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Extremely soft and plush | Flammable |
| Flexible, lightweight and comfortable | Not windproof |
| Durable | Can’t withstand washing at very high temperatures, tumble drying or ironing |
| Highly breathable | Prone to attracting dust, lint, pet hair etc. due to high amounts of static electricity |
| Moisture-resistant | |
| Remains insulating when wet |
Is Fleece Waterproof?
Short answer: No.
Fleece remains wearable for longer as it is moisture resistant and highly breathable avoiding the build up of natural odors.
However, it should be noted that fleece must be dried very carefully as it is flammable and cannot handle heat too well. So, if caught in the rain, ensure that you do not tumble dry or iron it, and if drying over a radiator make sure that it isn’t too warm, as it could burn the fleece. If you’re looking for lightweight waterproof protection – team your fleece with one of our ladies’ or men’s packable waterproof jackets.
Is Fleece Vegan?
As our fleece is made from polyester or cotton – or even sometimes a combination of both – it is wool-free.
For those conscious of their clothing being vegan, you certainly don’t need to freeze when it gets chilly, as fleece (sometimes referred to as synthetic wool) is the most comforting and heat-trapping fabric, yet completely ethical. Designed with enough thickness to keep you warm, you don’t have to sacrifice on style, colour or price to be happy with your clothing.
Weight
Fleece is categorised by weight in gsm – or grams per square metre – which can be quite confusing as you might not see weight measured in that format every day, but we can explain. The first-ever fleece manufacturer split garments into groups defined by how many grams of fleece constituted a square metre.
There are four main measures that will let you know how light or heavy the fleece in question is, so take a look below:
| Fleece Weight | Description | Typical Use |
| <100gsm | Ultralight | Summer walking in cool weather |
| 100 – 200gsm | Lightweight | General wear, walking in temperate weather |
| 200 – 300gsm | Mid-weight | Outer layer in everyday wear or mid-layer in layering system |
| >300gsm | Heavyweight | Outdoor activities in Arctic conditions, as a thermal fleece |
Type of Fleece
There are many different types of fleece nowadays, with new variations being introduced onto the market each year. Here we take a look at the three major kinds so you can better match your next fleece garment purchase to your needs.
What Is A Microfleece?
Microfleece is the thinnest and most lightweight type of fleece. These are the original mid-layers that are worn over base layers and under rain jackets and waterproof jackets. Microfleece provides the lowest level of insulation yet the highest breathability, so they’re ideal for active pursuits in weather that isn’t too cold.
Generally, any fleece up to 200gsm is considered a microfleece. They allow for the greatest flexibility when doing physical exercise, as the build isn’t too thick to restrict movement. Being lightweight is the highlight feature of this type of fleece, and it’s also frequently chosen as an outer layer when outdoor conditions are mild.
Additional features such as multiple pockets and a large hood are unlikely to be found on microfleece as the scope is to keep it simple and lightweight.
Mid-Weight Fleece
Mid-weight fleece sits right in the middle of the warmth spectrum. It’s ideal for chilly hikes or treks, where you need extra insulation without feeling bulky. Compared to lightweight fleece, it offers greater warmth, better breathability, and a softer, more comfortable feel.
This type of fleece isn’t as flexible as microfleece, but its thicker build makes it a reliable everyday outer layer in cool conditions. When the temperature drops, it works perfectly as a mid-layer over a base layer and under a waterproof jacket.
Any fleece with a weight between 200gsm and 300gsm falls into the mid-weight category
Heavyweight Fleece
Heavyweight fleece is at the top of the range of fleece weights, coming in at 300gsm or more. This type of fleece is best suited for very cold conditions where physical activity is limited as it is best used as a thermal fleece.
Heavyweight fleece is the least flexible of fleeces, but also the warmest and most insulating. This can be stifling if worn when exercising or exerting yourself physically, as you’re bound to overheat quickly. The only exception is when you’re outdoors in very harsh climates close to polar or Arctic conditions, where you’ll be needing as much insulation as you can get.
Heavyweight fleece makes for a great outer layer in cold weather too, and can be staggeringly warm. Our Mens Fleece Rundel is 300gsm, making it a real titan of cold defence.
Textured Fleece
Textured fleece tends to share the same weight range as heavyweight fleece, yet boasts a patterned outer. This is mostly for decorative purposes, although textured fleece tends to be even softer to the touch and comfier than regular fleece.
Often luxurious-looking and velvety, textured fleeces are the dressiest of the lot and are ideal for putting on as an outer layer when out roaming in the cold, or even as a mid-layer when the chill increases.
Features
Fleece clothing normally has multiple features which add to its versatility and comfort. The eco-friendly material is super durable for one, meaning that a one-off purchase can last you years without going bobbly or raggedy looking. What are some other benefits of the fleece? Well:
It’s Super Lightweight
Fleece is an incredibly lightweight material. This makes it great for packing into small bags and rucksacks, so you won’t have to carry lots of heavy kit around with you. Imagine taking a heavy woollen jumper on a trek, only to find glorious sunshine on your journey – you would be a bit peeved about having to carry it around with you. With a lightweight fleece jacket or hoodie, you can have the warmth for half of the weight.
It’s Adjustable
Fleeces sometimes have adjustable hems in order to fasten properly. An adjustable hem means you can restrict the passage of air into the garment and seal it in a more windproof structure.
It Gets Rid of Sweat
As well as locking in the heat and regulating body temperature, fleece is a wicking material that will wick moisture away from the body. This will prevent sweat from lingering and dampening your skin.
It’ll Keep You Warm as Can Be
Many jumpers and jackets use thermal fleece for insulation, sometimes combined with a wind-resistant outer layer for extra protection in cold weather. The raised collar helps shield your neck from strong winds and freezing temperatures — and it also gives the fleece that classic outdoor look.
Why not pair your new fleece with a Men’s or Women’s Gilet for the ultimate between-season style? Use our Trespass multibuy fleece code to bag yourself a great deal.
