Once upon a time, the everyday fleece was simply another unappreciated layer to chuck on as the temperature plummeted. Something to consider when you had to nip to the shop or come head-to-head with one of those walks where you’re constantly one step behind your own freezing breath. Then they became cool.
Rier’s viral Castoro paved the way for like-minded alternatives to jump on the bandwagon once it became abundantly clear that anything in the “outdoorsy” realm had suddenly become not only acceptable but actively encouraged far beyond the confines of the great outdoors. But a few brands had been making pretty spot-on fleeces long before the fashionistas decided they were worth getting excited about. Patagonia and Columbia, to name just two. These days, a solid pullover needs to tick two boxes: function and finesse. And skimp on neither.
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With another long, hard winter just a few weeks away, it’s time to once again embrace the fleece. We’ve rounded up the best ones out there, from tried-and-tested hardy staples to more fashion-minded alternatives. Because if there’s one thing we know for sure, it’s that its time living in the shadows is well and truly over.
The Fashion-y One
You can practically feel the quality of this Italian wool blend sherpa fleece just through its product shots alone. Does it look overly thick and warm? Nope, but actually that's ok in this case. As someone versed in an enduring appreciation for a good-looking layer, I reckon Norse Projects has got the balance about right here. Inspired by 1970s pile jackets, with contrast binding adding a nice bit of definition, it has the sort of understated appeal that makes an ordinary winter piece of gear feel a little less in-your-face. Basically, for those who like their winter layers a little less REI and a little more runway.
The Tough One
There’s something about a Columbia fleece that makes you think it could be handed down through generations and still have plenty of life left in it. Being from the west coast of Ireland, a fleece is within arm’s reach 12 months of the year. Seriously. So, I know the value of having one you can rely on. The Timber Crest has that no-nonsense appeal of a fleece you reach for without giving it a second thought. And if it ends up getting nicked by a family member along the way, well, you can’t blame them for having good taste.
The Mature One
After a fleece with a bit more of that suspiciously well-dressed grandpa energy to it? Same. After all, who says a pull-over can't clean up nicely? This is one that’d look as comfortable in the boardroom as it would anywhere else. And that’s saying something considering it’s technically a fleece, albeit one made from silk and superfine wool that feels a world away from the usual stuff.
The Sporty One
Nike’s ACG line has always had a slightly different take on outdoor gear, and the Wolf Tree fleece is right up that street. There's something about the embroidered logo and the general technical vibe that gives it a bit more personality than your usual fleece. The whole thing has a proper sporty feel, with just enough of that old-school ACG character to keep it interesting. It's also little more adventurous than your average zip-up, without getting carried away with itself.
The Steep(er) One
This is one of the pricier fleece jackets that actually looks like one. The wool on this has that shaggy, almost sheep-like quality that makes you want to reach out and give it a good stroke. It’s a little more rugged than some of the smarter options on this list, but all the more appealing for it. Winter won’t know what hit it.
The Toasty One
This icebreaker zip-up fleece has been my go-to as of late. Not because it's especially exciting but because it's seriously snug. With its merino wool, fitted shape, and pile texture, it has that slightly retro outdoor feel without going full dad mode. I’m finding myself gravitating toward it as the dreaded chill creeps in. Even if it's mostly doing the transitional-layer thing, getting me from my house to the office and back again. I'm not exactly bracing the elements, but at least I'm warm.
The Cushy One
Don’t get it twisted, the humble fleece still very much runs the comfort scene, too. Especially this Goldwin one. With its relaxed cropped fit and soft, wool-rich fabric, it’s the kind of thing you throw on for five minutes and never want to take off. Consider yourself warned. Meanwhile, the snap-button front gives it a little extra character and the thumbhole cuffs are a much-welcomed addition.
The Cheap(er) One
There's a lot to be said for a fleece that doesn't take itself too seriously. Good ol’ Uniqlo's color-block number has that slightly goofy, retro sportswear energy that makes it all the more appealing when everything else in your winter wardrobe starts feeling a bit samey-samey. And then there's the price, which only sweetens the deal.
The Structured One
We know by now that not all fleeces are created equal. Some are made for getting muddy on a hillside, others for elevating an already impressive fit. Corridor's take is most definitely the latter, The mix of materials gives it a more substantial feel, while the almost aviator shape adds a bit of much needed structure. It's still a fleece at heart, just one that looks like it might have somewhere better to be than the couch. It's not judging, though.
Some Strong Contenders:
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Style means different things to different people, but knowing what's worth your money shouldn't be a guessing game. At Highsnobiety, we’ve spent more than two decades covering fashion, keeping tabs on the brands worth knowing, and figuring out which products deserve your time. We test products firsthand when possible, digging into everything from quality and construction to comfort and wearability. With more brands competing for your attention than ever, we also consider what sets a product apart. For the rest, we lean on our product knowledge, editorial research, and the taste that’s made us a trusted voice in fashion.
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