The 25 Best Fleece Jackets to Keep You Comfy and Warm This Fall
The ultimate throw-and-go option for chilly weather.
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People are often shocked to discover that I was a boy scout, a real one that spent weekends deep into camp grounds, forging a fire with kindling and whatever dry bark was available. This means that I’ve seen my fair share of fleece jackets, an article of clothing that was mandated by my scoutmaster. It was incredibly insulating, durable, and allowed all of us to move nimbly. For forest environments, where the temperatures at night drop to a debilitating degree and the area is dicey, nothing less than a fleece would suffice. It was simply the best option.
Aside from camp, seeing a fleece jacket out and about was rare. I just didn’t hang around folks that took to the style, and didn’t see the need to wear the one I owned either. But this all changed when I went to college up north. It was a predominantly preppy institution, and I learned quickly that the prescribed jacket for trekking through the woods was also essentially mandated for those that attended boarding school. Go figure, right? So, I copped one—but wore it sparingly.
Then, over the last few years, the fleece—a style once relegated to finance types (most of the guys that I graduated with) and hiking enthusiasts—was suddenly yanked into the world of high fashion and reimagined by designers big and small, on and off the runway. What I saw almost exclusively in the wilderness and in my dorm is now everywhere. It’s mainstream. And when I really think about it, that totally makes sense.
See, the thing about the fleece is that it's a perfect grab-and-go lightweight outerwear option in a pinch, especially when it’s too cold to wear a denim jacket and too warm to throw on a puffer. It serves as the happy medium. It is practical. My scoutmaster was right on the money. And if you want to heed his advice, check out some of the best fleece jackets of the season below.
As plush as any other option you'll find on this list, and by far the best bang for your buck.
No need to peruse through 50 shades when a very good—and very affordable—gray fleece is right here.
Columbia Standard Steens Mountain Printed Jacket
Columbia Standard Steens Mountain Printed Jacket
A camouflage fleece by Columbia that's meant to help you stand out, not blend in.
A classic fleece inspired by the historic 1990 Mount Everest International Peace Climb, straight from Maine's favorite son.
Proof that classics will never go out of style.
Quiksilver Clean Coasts Full Zip Fleece Jacket
This fleece jacket, in shades of cinnamon, is a sure way to spice up your wardrobe.
Carhartt Relaxed Fit Fleece Pullover
Carhartt Relaxed Fit Fleece Pullover
A fleece jacket in basil that'll garnish any fit.
Cotopaxi Dorado Colorblock Half-Zip Fleece Pullover
Cotopaxi Dorado Colorblock Half-Zip Fleece Pullover
A fittingly desert-inspired take from Cotopaxi—sand-hued panels, sunset orange details, and all.
The North Face Cragmont Fleece Jacket
Is it really a proper round-up of fleece options if you don't include The North Face's rugged-yet-sleek take on the style?
Penfield Polar Color Block Funnel-Neck Fleece Jacket
Penfield Polar Color Block Funnel-Neck Fleece Jacket
Penfield has been making some of the best fleece options around for a few seasons now. Sleep on 'em at your own peril.
As well-crafted as any of the brand's beloved bags, and more than sturdy enough to uphold the storied Filson legacy.
Heat-retention in spades courtesy of the Boulder, Colorado-based brand that, as you'd expect, knows a thing or two about designing for next-level warmth.
Trust that District Vision offers up that most eye-catching fits, including this fleece jacket right here.
L.L.Bean x Todd Snyder Hi-Pile Sherpa Snap-Front Shirt Jacket
L.L.Bean x Todd Snyder Hi-Pile Sherpa Snap-Front Shirt Jacket
A fleece jacket from L.L.Bean and Todd Snyder, the hottest thing to happen to fall since pumpkin spice lattes.
When the temperatures drop even further, swap your favorite cardigan for this golden boy right here.
Patagonia Classic Retro-X Jacket
Patagonia Classic Retro-X Jacket
A fleece jacket so great that we endorsed it.
Napa by Martine Rose T-Hossa Fleece Jacket
Napa by Martine Rose T-Hossa Fleece Jacket
Napapijri and Martine Rose collaborated on a fleece jacket that is, indeed, serving face(s).
Snow Peak Boa Thermal Recycled-Fiber Fleece Jacket
Snow Peak Boa Thermal Recycled-Fiber Fleece Jacket
Like the boa constrictor it is named after, this fleece jacket will wrap around you tightly and securely. Unlike with the boa constrictor, that's a good thing.
Billionaire Boys Club Leopard Fleece Jacket
Billionaire Boys Club Leopard Fleece Jacket
A princely leopard print from the royals over at Billionaire Boys Club.
From the Rococo pattern to the jacquard details to the Virgin Mary in the back, this fleece jacket is truly a blessing.
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