Tested: The Best Men’s Fleece Jackets to Take on Any Weather

With winter officially here, we’re well within the timeframe of preliminary procurement – especially when it comes to cozy outdoor garments. Traditional jackets and vests might be making their rounds within the mainstream media, but if you’re anything like us, you’re in the market for those obscure functional pieces that’ll get you through this season in style. Of our personal favorites, the fleece stands out as a time-tested staple that few people incorporate within their fall ensemble. That’s why we’re here to give you a hands-on look at the best men’s fleece jackets you can get right now.

How We Tested

Fleece jackets are an incredibly classic piece of cold-weather clothing, but there are truly endless ways to make a jacket using the material. We did our best to include a wide variety of picks, ranging from absolute classics to more modern picks, always from brands that we love and wear as a team.

Testing begins with feeling the fleece to see how soft it is, then putting it on to get a better idea of how it feels with the lining. You’ll see each fleece worn with the same white tee, but I also made sure to test out other layers (both over and under the fleece) to get a better idea of the layering opportunities for each pick. After that, I inspect the build quality, storage options, and hardware to make sure that everything is in order. Then, after that, we get into the fit and look of each option, and how they feel overall when wearing. Given the nature of fleece jackets, one of the most important factors is the warmth they can provide, so we got out into the California winter to test them out – which has been dipping down into the low 40s in the early mornings and evenings, and hovering in the low 50s during the daytime here in Los Angeles.

Measurements: I’m 6’2″ and wear size 34X30 pants – each jacket on the guide you see me wearing is an XL.

What To Look For

Material: High-quality fleece materials like Polartec and Windstopper offer solid warmth and durability, and if you need a bit of stretch, look for a jacket that has some spandex in the material blend. Do keep in mind that fleece is a synthetic material, but labels will often opt for a recycled version for sustainability.

Fit: If you plan on layering with your jacket, a snug fit will be more useful. And for a more casual look, you can go with a relaxed fit. Fleece jackets also come in a variety of styles (zip, half-zip, pullover), and it really comes down to personal preference, as they’re all equally capable. 

Moisture-Wicking: Luckily, fleece is naturally pretty good at wicking/not retaining moisture (especially compared to wool), but if you want some more help, go for a lighter jacket. Thinner jackets will also offer better moisture-wicking properties, and offer more breathability compared to thicker picks.

Warmth: Generally speaking, heavier jackets will be warmer, while lighter jackets will be more breathable. If you need some extra warmth, go for a jacket with thermal lining.

L.L.Bean Bean’s Sherpa Fleece Jacket

Best Starter Fleece: L.L.Bean has been around for quite some time now (over a century now), with deep roots in the American outdoors as the inventor of the iconic Bean Boots. What’s impressive is the label’s abiltiy to stay relevant after all this time, especially with the volatilty of the fashion scene, and the fact that L.L.Bean was never really considred cool until somewhat recently. This fleece is the perfect example; it made the rounds on social media, and is a winter favorite among fashion heads and casual connoisseurs alike.

This fleece has been making waves on “Fashion Tok” and social media in general, because, for a lot of younger people, L.L.Bean isn’t really regarded as a fashionable label, and this pick is surprisingly clean, modern, and stylish while maintaining the hallmarks of what makes L.L.Bean such a legend in the outdoor space. Starting with a recycled polyester fleece body, it’s lined with polyester with Taffeta-lined sleeves to make layering easier. Given the slightly fitted design of this piece, I found it difficult to layer anything besides a tee underneath, but it’s a lot warmer than I expected and makes for a great mid-layer. The zippered chest pocket adds to the retro style of the jacket (and sets it apart from similar offerings, like Patagonia’s Sychilla), and you get a duo of zippered hand pockets for storage (and hand warming). 

I definitely wouldn’t say that this is a short jacket by any means (it fell right past my waist), but I recommend that people with longer torsos go for the tall options, because I could see this running a bit short on taller folks. As for layering options, the tighter fit here makes things a bit limited (anything bigger than a tee or flannel was difficult for me to fit under this).

Verdict: This is a highly underrated and stylish pick from the Bean made of soft fleece, with a slightly fitted look. It makes for a great daily driver, and the lightweight construction also makes it a great year-round pick.

Lululemon Fleece Training Jacket

Best Active Fleece: While we can all appreciate a traditionally-styled option, you can always go right with a more performance-oriented piece, and who better to trust in that department than lululemon? The Canadian clothier describes its oversized option as “soft, warm, and stretchy,” which may sound pretty basic on the outside looking in, but what else are we truly looking for a fleece we can wear a few times a week? Plus, it features a handy locker loop that’s ideal if you’re heading straight to the gym, allowing you to take it off and hang it up quickly.

Hailing from the athleisure titan, this fleece jacket is designed for getting active and boasts a slick, retro-inspired design that looks good even if you aren’t working out. It’s made with an 80/20 blend of polyester and cotton, with a slick water-repellant exterior and a super soft brushed fleece interior. Fit-wise, this feels a lot like a bomber, falling just past the waist with extra room in the chest, allowing for layers without feeling too baggy. I had a chance to go for a quick jog in this one, and it was perfect for handling the morning cold, providing warmth and moisture control without making me feel too hot. For storage, you get two zipper handwarmer pockets (with an additional compartment on the right pocket for your phone, and one on the left for coins). I really liked the inclusion of the phone pocket here, because a lot of active jackets will have compartments for your phone, but they just end up jostling around. 

While I definitely felt that this was warm (and the brushed fleece feels great on the skin), it’s not quite as warm as the thicker picks in this guide. This is by design, however, so if you don’t plan on working out with this one, I’d go for something thicker. Fit-wise, this one was a bit too tight to layer anything besides a tee underneath, but the slick construction and form-fitting style make it a solid mid-layer. 

Verdict: Designed for getting active, this pick from lululemon is a great addition to your winter workout wardrobe. It’s lightweight yet still warm, and has a slick look that lends itself to a variety of outfits, even if you aren’t working out.

Patagonia Synchilla Snap-T Fleece Pullover

Best Classic Fleece: Patagonia simply has to be on any “best fleece” guide, because the brand’s Synchilla fleece is a bit too good to pass up (and an undeniable classic). Back in 1979, Patagonia (alongside Malden Mills) invented the legendary Synchilla fleece, defining the space as we know it. If you live in an area where bouts of wind and water are common, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that the Synchilla features a set of resistant detailing on the pocket and neck to keep you dry.

Few fleece pullovers are as instantly recognizable as Patagonia’s Synchilla, and I’ve personally had one for 10 years that I’ve worn every winter without fail. But Patagonia was nice enough to send us a brand new one, and you’ll see them side by side to give you an idea of how well they hold up. Besides the colorway, the only difference between these two is the size (I used to wear a large) – both feature double-sided fleece with a nylon plain-weave placket and chest pocket, and I immediately noticed how much softer the new jacket was compared to my old one. This isn’t too surprising, though, as most fabric will become rougher as you wear it and wash it (especially after 10 years). The colors on the fleece and nylon of my old fleece have also faded over time, but other than that, it’s held up incredibly well (other than a few stains) and has been through countless hikes, camping trips, and nights out. 

When it comes to jackets and fleeces, I’m sort of in between sizes, and the XL here ran a bit too long on me compared to the L that I usually wear (which is too short, to be honest). That said, the L is a little small for me in the chest, so I would go for a size up if you’re in between sizes like me. The oversized fit of this fleece is perfect for layering, especially with the extra room in the waist, chest, and arms.

Verdict: This is such an iconic fleece from the label that put the material on the map, and it has a retro style that’s absolutely iconic. Having the opportunity to compare a new one to one I’ve owned for 10 years also gives me a new appreciation for its timeless style and durability.

The North Face Denali Jacket

Best Zipped Fleece: The North Face’s modern spin on its iconic Denali is a refined approach to one of the genre’s most lauded vintage pieces. It might be a throwback to one of TNF’s 90s pieces, but this unique fleece jacket is even more capable today than it was over twenty years ago, thanks to its recycled, wind-and-rain-resistant fabrics, ventilated underarm areas, and detachable velcro patches. If you’re looking to seal in some more warmth during the colder months, this jacket also boasts a set of elasticated cuffs and a drawstring hem, giving you the opportunity to lock down whenever you feel the need.

I’d put the Denali Jacket up there with Patagonia’s Synchilla in the Mount Rushmore of classic fleeces; the jacket’s climbing roots, Polartec fleece construction, and timeless design are a big part of its staying power. The juxtaposition of the nylon overlays with the fleece definitely looks cool, but it’s also abrasion-resistant for added utility. Speaking of utility, you get two zippered chest pockets and two (sizeable) zippered hand pockets, with a full-length front zipper to finish it off (all using YKK hardware). The fit here is advertised as relaxed, but it leans a little more towards true to size with enough room for layering underneath, with Triclimate loops on the cuffs and zip-in integration with the label’s GORE-TEX Mountain Jacket.

I don’t really have any criticisms with this piece, but I will say that if you prefer a baggier fit similar to Patagonia’s Synchila fleece, I’d go for a larger size. Again, the fit is still relaxed, but it doesn’t quite have that roomy feel that other fleeces have, and fits similarly to L.L.Bean’s pick.

Verdict: Classic, reliable, and stylish, you can never go wrong with the Denali Jacket. Given its roots in climbing, it’s also a great choice to bring on your outdoor adventures.

Buck Mason Alpine Merino Fleece Dock Jacket

Best Wool Fleece: When it comes to Buck Mason, you can always expect some sort of modern-day inspiration. This modern inspiration is often coupled with classic American designs, and the effortless blend of past and present makes Buck Mason a favorite around here. This time around, the label is looking to a WW2-era chore jacket, and elevating it with premium Merino wool, resulting in a dressier take on the usually casual fleece jacket silhouette.

Leave it to Buck Mason to elevate a classic piece of Americana (specifically taking inspiration from the WW2 USMC P41 chore jacket) and update it for the modern era. Serving as the most formal pick in our guide, this dock jacket is made with double-knit Merino wool fleece for warmth and features a brushed interior that feels more like a traditional fleece jacket. Since it’s based on a chore jacket, you’re getting a boxier fit compared to the rest of the picks in the guide, but it didn’t feel/look baggy while I was wearing it. You’re getting four buttons on the front, buttoned cuffs, and two patch pockets on the front (with bartack reinforcements on the corners, which is very much appreciated because I’m big on hand-resting).

I love the look and feel of this pick, and it certainly feels like a classic, but I understand that it’s more of a unique pick when it comes to fleece jackets, and it may be too dressy for some. Layering here was easy, as you get plenty of room in the chest and waist, offering you plenty of options to stay warm.

Verdict: If you’re in the market for a dressier fleece option (inspired by the classic chore jacket), Buck Mason has you covered. It’s versatile, warm, and durably-made with double-knit Merino wool fleece.

Woolrich Reversible Curly Fleece in Sherpa and Taslan nylon

Best Reversible Fleece: Woolrich is an industry titan, and like many of the brand’s garments, it doesn’t shy away from its intentions. This medium-weight insulating layer features a polyester and wool blend of fleece, a reversible design (with a warm wool Sherpa side and a water-resistant nylon side), and a zip closure to keep things locked up tight. To round out the jacket, you get a contrast zip fastening, with three pockets on the Sherpa side and two on the nylon side.

Stylistically, this pick shares a lot of similarities with L.L.Bean’s Sherpa Fleece Jacket but has a more stripped-back look, with a unique reversible design. On the main side, you have this plush wool sherpa that feels like a blanket, with a zippered chest pocket and two hand pockets. On the other side, you have this water-resistant Taslan nylon that’s perfect for inclement weather, along with two hand pockets (an impressive feature to have two hand pockets on both sides and something I really liked). It fits similarly to L.L.Beans’s fleece and felt mostly true to size on both sides, but it felt a little tight for an XL, and I found it hard to really layer anything underneath (especially wearing it with the fleece side on the inside). Again, I just can’t say enough about how soft and plush the fleece is here, but it definitely sheds just a bit.

The fit here is definitely a bit tighter, and I found that it was hard to layer anything other than a tee or a flannel underneath (particularly with the fleece on the inside) Luckily, it’s super warm (on both sides), so I don’t think that most people will need a lot of layers (unless you’re living somewhere especially cold).

Verdict: The reversible design here sets this fleece apart from the pack, and also provides some utility, allowing you to customize the look and feel of it on the fly. You get the water resistance of the Taslan nylon combined with the warmth and softness of the wool Sherpa fleece.

Vollebak Planet Earth Fleece

Best Year-Round Fleece: Vollebak is known for making unique apparel that uses material that no one else is even considering (they made the world’s first graphene jacket, just to give you an idea), but the label is playing it relatively safe this time around with this fleece. That doesn’t mean it’s boring, however, as it’s designed to “take you across every climate, environment, and terrain on Earth.”

Using a blend of polyester and elastane, this double-sided fleece is water-repellent, windproof, and boasts a four-way stretch for mobility. The fleece here felt the softest to me compared to the rest of the picks on the guide, and I appreciated how breathable it was on its own (with just a tee underneath). This is advertised as an “all-weather” fleece, which I’d say is a very apt description because it was breathable while still being warm, and has a more true-to-size fit that allows it to be used as both an outer layer and a mid-layer. As for the waterproof features, the entire shell was more than capable of handling the rain we were experiencing at the office, and the water-resistant zipper closures held their own, not letting any water into the pockets

This was definitely on the smaller side for an XL, and it was a little tight for me when zipped all the way up to the neck. Although it’s designed to act as a mid-layer, I highly recommend that you grab a size larger if you want to layer thicker clothing underneath, like sweaters or hoodies.  

Verdict: Vollebak’s minimalist yet futuristic design cues shine bright with this fleece, and although it doesn’t have any graphene or space materials, it’s still just as impressive as the rest of the label’s output.

Canada Goose Kelowna Jacket Kind High Pile Fleece

Best Premium Fleece: Like most outerwear pieces you’ll find in Canada Goose’s coveted catalog, the Kelowna Fleece Jacket showcases the luxurious side of outdoor attire. It is composed of cozy, wool-crafted, high-pile fleece, so the versatile jacket operates well as a mid or top layer, depending on how cold it is outside. For functionality’s sake, it’s equipped with strategically placed reinforcement in high abrasion areas and a zippered chest zipper to keep gear safe and sound.

There’s just something about Canada Goose apparel that screams quality, from the box it arrives in, to the attention to detail found in even the smallest features. Starting with a high-pile fleece, Canada Goose is opting for a more sustainable material blend for this updated version, using recycled wool and bio-based fibers. The fit here is definitely true to size, falling just past the waist, but has a solid amount of room in the arms and chest to layer up underneath. You also get some abrasion-resistant CORDURA nylon under the arms by the elbows on the neck, which is great if you’re planning on wearing this hiking (or outdoors in general). It’s bolstered with YKK hardware throughout, and the jersey knit lining feels super soft on the skin. There’s definitely room to layer a sweater underneath, but thicker stuff like hoodies will be harder to squeeze underneath.

Considering this is a Canada Goose piece, there’s no denying the hefty price tag that comes along with the label’s apparel, and this fleece is no exception. But if you have the money and want one of the best fleeces you can get, I highly recommend it. 

Verdict: If money is no object (and you’re down to flex a bit), this fleece from Canada Goose is extremely luxurious yet still warm and useful. The use of CORDURA nylon in high-abrasion areas also makes this a worthy outdoor pick.

Fleece Comparison Chart

WHAT IS FLEECE?

Fleece came about in 1979 when Malden Mills and the legendary label Patagonia created the Synchilla fabric, a mashup of synthetic and chinchilla. The idea was to recreate the warmth and feeling of wool, with a synthetic construction that’s easier to source and maintain. The term “fleece” refers to the fabric composition of the jacket, and it’s a synthetic material made from polyester. It’s soft, lightweight, and super breathable, making it a popular choice for cold-weather apparel. It also dries quickly, making it more convenient and easy to maintain than something like Merino wool, for example.

WHEN SHOULD YOU WEAR A FLEECE JACKET?

Fleece jackets are the perfect fall pick because they’re lightweight yet still warm. They’re also a solid winter choice, but as a layer rather than a solo piece. If winter isn’t too cold where you live, a fleece jacket might be able to get the job done on its own, but any serious winter weather calls for a serious winter jacket like a puffer.

Honorable Mentions

The Arc’teryx Cover Cardigan is a clean, midweight fleece that’s very similar to the lululemon pick we covered, and features a recycled polyester construction for sustainability. It’s designed for everyday wear, with a super breathable material blend to keep your temperature regulated.

Snow Peak’s Thermal Boa Fleece hails from a legendary Japanese label in the outdoor scene, equipped with an entirely recycled material blend, and just oozing with ’90s style.

While this may be hard to track down, and it’s not on any official Nike outlets at the time of writing, the Nike ACG Fleece Ninja is one of coolest fleeces you can get. It features an oversized hood that fits almost like a balaclava, leaving just enough room for your eyes and nose (like a ninja!).

It’s no secret that we’re huge Todd Snyder fans over here, and the label’s Italian Recycled Fleece Full-Zip Jacket is a premium pick made with high-quality fleece from an Italian mill. With a classic fleece jacket look, it’s finished with zippered chest pocket and two zippered hand pockets.

The Best White Tees for Simple Style

Our hands-on best white tees guide is the perfect next stop, whether you’re looking for a layer to throw on underneath your fleece or a dependable solo piece.