A fleece jacket is a popular piece of outerwear that offers warmth, comfort and versatility. Whether you're heading out for a hike, running errands or simply lounging at home, a fleece jacket can make a great addition to your wardrobe. Even if you've owned fleece before, however, you might not know much about this material. So what is a fleece jacket, and why do so many adventurers love them? Read on to learn more about the making and benefits of fleece jackets.
A fleece jacket is a lightweight, warm and soft outer layer that provides superior insulation and comfort in cold weather. These are jackets crafted from a unique material known as fleece fabric, which offers incredible weather resistance.
In simple terms, a fleece jacket is a type of insulated jacket made of synthetic fibers. The fabric was first developed by a brand known as Malden Mills, the pioneer behind this innovative design today loved by outdoor enthusiasts worldwide.
The main component of a fleece jacket is polyester fleece. This material is derived from petroleum, and it is popular because of its hydrophobic properties. Fleece fabric absorbs less than 1% of its weight in water, making these jackets an excellent water resistant option. Apart from polyester, there may also be a blend of other synthetic fibers to enhance specific jacket features.
The first step in producing a fleece jacket involves the creation of polyester yarn. This yarn is then spun and woven into a thick fabric. The fabric is brushed on both sides to create a soft and plush texture.
Next, the fabric is cut into the desired pattern and shape for the jacket. The different pieces are then stitched together using specialized sewing machines.
Finally, finishing touches such as zippers, buttons and hems are added to complete the fleece jacket. The result is a cozy, warm and durable garment that is perfect for outdoor activities or everyday wear.
The type of fleece used in each jacket varies, which ultimately alters the properties of the jacket. They can be classified into various types such as polar fleece, microfleece and heathered fleece jackets, each differing based on the weight of the fleece and other properties.
A polar fleece jacket is renowned for its heavyweight fleece and fluffy feel. It is a tightly woven fleece fabric offering superior warmth and insulation. This material is often used in sweaters, jackets, coats and blankets.
On the lighter side of the fleece spectrum, we have the microfleece jacket. Less bulky and extremely light, these jackets are perfect for milder weather. They have high thermal properties while also providing breathability, accounting for maximum comfort. The lightweight nature of the microfleece jackets makes them perfect for any layering system.
Heathered fleece jackets often feature a color-textured appearance. They generally employ a blend of fibers to achieve this unique aesthetic appeal. Despite their chic look, they do not compromise on the functionality of the jacket. These jackets maintain warmth and water resistance while adding a fashionable edge.
Renowned for its warmth-retaining possibilities and cool weather resistance, the fleece jacket has become a favorite among nature enthusiasts and casual wearers alike. Fleece materials combine warmth, lightweight fleece and breathability to produce an ultra-comfortable, high-performance piece.
Fleece jackets have a myriad of uses, transcending the boundary from functional to fashionable. They can function as an outer layer in mild cold weather, preventing your body heat from escaping while also allowing enough air to flow through. This creates the perfect balance of insulation and breathability that’s not found in all types of outerwear.
In more severe weather conditions, a fleece jacket serves as an excellent mid-layer sandwiched between a base layer and a weather-resistant outer layer. This provides enhanced protection against the cold, guaranteeing comfort and safety in the harshest of climates.
The insulating properties of fleece jackets are simply unparalleled. With a tightly knitted inner layer filled with small air pockets, these jackets trap and store body heat to keep the wearer warm. Moreover, the polyester fleece fabric is brilliantly designed to draw sweat away from the skin for dry comfort.
However, warmth isn’t the only characteristic that sets the fleece jacket apart. Its breathability sets a high bar. Fleece jackets are designed to keep you warm without making you overheat. Even during vigorous activities, a fleece jacket maintains a comfortable temperature for the wearer.
Like any clothing material, fleece needs special care to maintain its functionality. Properly cleaning, drying and storing your jacket will extend its lifespan and performance.
To maintain its weather resistance and longevity, proper care of fleece jackets is necessary. It’s generally recommended to wash fleece jackets on a gentle cycle with cold water to prevent the fleece fabric from pilling. Additionally, avoid using fabric softeners or bleach. Fabric softener can stick to the fibers and weigh your jacket down, reducing its fluffiness and ability to wick away moisture. Bleach can damage fleece fibers.
For drying, it’s best to let your fleece jacket air-dry to maintain its structure and prevent shrinking. If you don't have the space or time, you can tumble-dry fleece on the lowest heat setting.
For long-term care, always ensure to clean the jacket before storage. Keeping it stored in a cool, dry place and away from direct sunlight can extend the lifespan of your fleece jacket. Moreover, avoid cramming it into tight spaces as this can damage the integrity of the fleece fabric. Remember, proper care can help your fleece jacket remain functional and fashionable for many years, providing excellent value for your money.
When it comes to staying warm in cold weather, a fleece jacket from Stio is a must-have. We offer a wide range of high-quality fleece jackets that are designed to provide exceptional warmth and comfort. Made with soft yet durable materials, these jackets trap heat effectively, keeping you cozy even in freezing temperatures.
With their stylish designs and comfortable fit, our fleece jackets are perfect for winter sports, hiking or simply running errands around town. Whether you're lounging at home or braving the elements, our fleeces are the perfect addition to your winter wardrobe, ensuring you stay warm and comfortable all season long.
Check out our extensive selection of men's fleece and women's fleece.
Fleece is a soft, lightweight and warm fabric that is often made from synthetic fibers such as polyester. This fabric has excellent insulation properties, retaining body heat while remaining breathable. Fleece jackets are known for their exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio, meaning they provide considerable warmth without being bulky or heavy. They are also highly versatile, as they can be worn as a mid-layer or outer layer depending on the weather conditions. Additionally, fleece jackets are known for their quick-drying properties, making them suitable for outdoor activities and adventures.
Whether or not a fleece jacket is warm enough for winter depends on several factors, including the specific winter climate and individual preferences. Generally, fleece jackets provide a good amount of insulation and can be quite warm. In extremely cold conditions or areas with harsh winters, however, a fleece jacket may not be sufficient on its own. Layering with a base layer and outer layer, such as a down hooded jacket, would help you stay warm in these cases. It is always recommended to consider the temperature, wind chill and personal tolerance to cold when deciding on suitable winter clothing.
Fleece jackets are not waterproof and can get wet. Although fleece is water resistant to some extent and can keep you warm even when damp, it is not designed to repel moisture like a waterproof or water-repellent jacket. If exposed to heavy rain or immersion in water, the fleece material will absorb water and become wet. It is, however, relatively quick-drying and dries faster than materials like cotton and wool. If you're venturing out in wet conditions, it's a good idea to layer your fleece jacket with a waterproof or water-repellent jacket.
A fleece jacket can be both trendy and practical. To achieve a casual yet chic look, start by pairing your fleece jacket with a fitted t-shirt or a slim sweater underneath. For a more put-together outfit, you can also layer a button-up shirt or a turtleneck. Pair the jacket with a pair of jeans or leggings for a comfortable and casual vibe. To elevate the look, add some accessories like a statement belt, a scarf or a beanie hat. For footwear, sneakers or ankle boots are great options to complete the ensemble. Overall, the key to styling a fleece jacket is to balance its cozy appeal with well-fitted clothing pieces and complementary accessories.