How to Choose the Right Fleece Lined Jacket for Men
If you're an outdoor enthusiast whose adventures last year-round, a little cold weather isn't going to stop you. But before you go out, it's a good idea to layer up with the right gear. Fleece-lined jackets are a great mid-layering option, providing optimal insulation when the temperatures are low. Finding the right fleece jacket, whether it's a zip-neck pullover, hoodie or full-zip jacket, will ensure you stay warm and comfortable during any cold-weather activity.
Unraveling the Features of Fleece-Lined Jackets
Fleece-lined jackets have become a staple in many people's wardrobes, especially during the colder months. The soft, plush fleece lining makes these jackets an incredibly cozy yet functional outerwear choice. There are many key features that make fleece-lined jackets so versatile and popular.
Understanding the Benefits of Fleece Lining
The fleece lining is really what sets these jackets apart from other lightweight jackets. Fleece has some notable properties that make it ideal for this purpose.
Warmth and Insulation
Fleece is known for providing excellent warmth and insulation without a lot of bulk or weight. The plush, fuzzy fibers trap body heat effectively to help keep your core nice and toasty.
Comfort
Fleece-lined jackets feel ultra-soft and comfortable against your skin. The smooth fleece interior moves with you easily to prevent irritation.
Light Weight and Breathability
Fleece itself is a lightweight, breathable material, allowing fleece jackets to remain relatively lightweight while still providing warmth. This is a valuable feature for campers, hikers and backpackers who may want to pack an extra layer without adding too much weight to their bags. The breathability of the material also enhances ventilation, allowing sweat to escape and preventing overheating.
Moisture Wicking and Quick Drying
The properties of fleece fabric allow it to readily wick moisture away from the skin and promote quick drying. This helps you avoid that unpleasant cold, damp feeling even during active use.
Material Composition
Some fleece-lined jackets have an outer shell made from tightly woven polyester or nylon. This protective outer layer helps block wind and repel water to keep the fleece liner dry underneath. The outer shell also adds overall durability.
Polyester makes up the majority of fleece linings, but some jackets may have fleece linings blended with other fibers like spandex for stretch and shape retention. Polyester fleece carries the right balance of warmth, breathability and weight.
Notable Design Elements
In addition to the plush fleece lining, some popular design elements of fleece-lined jackets include:
- Front zip closure on fleece quarter, half or full zip jackets for easy layering and removal
- Side pockets for warming hands and storage
- High collar that can zip up over chin and mouth
- Attached adjustable hood for added weather protection
Many hooded styles have an adjustable drawstring hood for cinching in heat. Some jackets only line the body while leaving the sleeves unlined for increased mobility.
How to Style Your Fleece-Lined Jacket
A fleece-lined jacket offers versatility to your wardrobe. Here are some tips for styling and wearing your jacket in different settings.
Layering for Outdoor Activities
A fleece-lined jacket serves as an ideal mid-layer for outdoor activities like hiking, camping or skiing. For cold weather and active pursuits, wear the jacket over a moisture-wicking athletic base layer. Top it off with a waterproof, insulated outer shell for snowy or rainy excursions.
Pairing With Different Pants and Shoes
For everyday wear, pair your fleece-lined jacket with casual pants like jeans, joggers or leggings. Chino or cargo pants also complement the casual vibe. In terms of footwear, opt for sneakers, boots or slip-on shoes for an effortless look.
Accessorizing Your Fleece Jacket
Since fleece-lined jackets have a relaxed, outdoorsy aesthetic, accessories like beanies, scarves and gloves help pull the look together on chilly days. Sunglasses and a backpack make good functional additions on the trail.
Transitioning Between Different Seasons and Times
In mild weather, keep things light with a T-shirt or tank top underneath. As temperatures drop going into fall and winter, layer with flannels, hoodies or thermal tops. When warmth isn't needed, tying the jacket around your waist gives you convenient access as temperatures fluctuate.
Fleece jackets work well for both day and night. For a night out, pair with dark jeans and boots, or even dress pants and loafers if you want to elevate the look.
Maintaining Your Fleece-Lined Jacket
Investing some care into your fleece jacket will help it last for many seasons. Here are some tips for maintenance and repairs.
The Ideal Care Routine for Fleece Jackets
Fleece needs special care, so it shouldn't be washed with your regular laundry. Follow these steps to ensure your fleece jacket stays fresh, clean and functional:
- Wash in cold water on a gentle cycle and line or hang dry. Heat can damage the fleece over time.
- Use a front-loading washing machine if possible. The agitator in a top-loader can pill the fleece.
- Zip up the jacket and turn it inside out before washing it to protect the outer shell.
- Apply a waterproofing spray before wearing to help moisture bead off.
- Avoid using fabric softener or dryer sheets as they reduce fleece's wicking ability.
- Inspect any zippers, Velcro and snaps periodically for damage. Replace as needed to keep them from catching on or tearing fabrics.
Troubleshooting Common Wear and Tear Issues
With regular wear and tear, fleece jackets can take on some damage over time. Fortunately, many of these are minor issues with simple solutions. Here are some common damages and their fixes:
- Pilling: Gently shave pilling with a fabric shaver or pumice stone.
- Fraying seams: Apply a seam sealant, then reinforce the stitching.
- Fading: Restore the vibrancy of your jacket with a color-safe bleach or re-dye.
- Lost water resistance: Reapply a DWR (durable water repellent) spray treatment.
When to Seek Professional Help
These significant damages and alterations may require the help of a professional tailor:
- Repairing ripped lining or shell fabric
- Replacing broken zippers or hardware
- Adding insulation if lacking warmth
- Adjusting ill-fitting sleeves or unusual seams
With the right care and maintenance, a quality fleece-lined jacket can be a comfortable staple for many years.
Find Quality Men's Fleece-Lined Jackets at Stio
When you're gearing up for your next expedition, a good fleece-lined jacket should be on your packing list. As fellow outdoor enthusiasts, we understand the importance of quality layers that can stand up to the elements while keeping you warm and comfortable. That's why Stio is a top brand for fleece jackets.
Our technical apparel is highly durable and designed to perform in harsh alpine environments. Stio fleece-lined jackets are made with premium materials to be cozy yet breathable and stretchy yet sturdy. Whether your outdoor activities call for a fleece-lined shirt jacket, a zip-front hoodie or half zip pullover, Stio has the functional and high-performance gear you need to make the most of your adventures.
Shop Stio's selection of men's fleece.
FAQs About Men's Fleece-Lined Jackets
How warm are fleece-lined jackets?
Fleece lining makes a jacket significantly warmer than unlined options. Fleece traps air to provide excellent insulation. Lined jackets are ideal for temperatures from around freezing to the 50s Fahrenheit.
Should I size up for a fleece-lined jacket?
In most cases, you can order your normal jacket size. The fleece lining adds warmth without significant bulk or the need to size up. However, if you are between sizes, sizing up allows more room for layering underneath.
How do you wash a fleece jacket?
When you need to wash a fleece jacket, be sure to check the care instructions, as the appropriate methods vary by fabric. Most fleece-lined jackets are machine washable. Use a mild detergent, wash on a gentle or delicate cycle in cold water and hang or line dry. Do not iron directly on the fleece lining.
Can you wear a fleece jacket in the rain?
Fleece lining still insulates when wet and dries quickly, but it is not truly waterproof on its own. If the forecast calls for rain, you'll want to choose a fleece-lined jacket with a water-resistant or waterproof outer shell. Softshell jackets with DWR coating or hardshell jackets made of materials like Gore-Tex fabric membrane work best for rain.
