Men's Fleece Jackets
Men's fleece jackets, the hard-working mid-layer that goes with everything, from a quick walk to a full day on the hill. Our fleece range spans Patagonia, The North Face, Columbia and Arc'teryx, with lightweight grid fleeces for high-output days, cosy heavyweight fleeces for around camp, and clean styles that look just as good in town.
Fleece is often rated by weight, shown as 100, 200 or 300, which tells you how warm and how heavy it is: lighter fleeces breathe well and layer easily under a shell, while heavier ones give more standalone warmth. Grid or waffle-backed fleece traps warmth while staying breathable, which is why it has become the go-to for active use. Decide whether you want a fleece as a warm outer layer on milder days or as a mid-layer under a rain jacket or down jacket, and choose a full-zip for easy on and off or a pullover for a little less weight and bulk.
Fleece is all about the feel, so drop into our Grey Lynn concept store to compare weights and finishes in person, or order online for fast, tracked delivery right across New Zealand.
Frequently asked questions about men's fleece jackets
What do fleece weights (100, 200, 300) mean?
The numbers are a rough guide to the fabric's weight and warmth, borrowed from classic fleece fabrics. 100-weight is light and breathable, ideal as an active mid-layer or for milder days. 200-weight is the versatile all-rounder, warm enough on its own in cool weather and easy to layer. 300-weight is heavy and cosy, best for standing around in the cold or for camp. Lighter fleeces breathe and pack better; heavier ones trade some of that for more warmth.
What is grid fleece, and why is it so popular?
Grid fleece has a waffle or honeycomb pattern on the inside rather than a solid face. The raised grid traps warm air against you while the channels between let moisture and heat escape, so it stays warm without cooking you when you work hard. That warmth-to-weight and breathability is why grid fleece has become the favourite active mid-layer for hiking, climbing and cool-weather running.
Is a fleece warm enough to wear on its own?
For cool but dry conditions, yes, a mid or heavyweight fleece is a comfortable standalone layer around town, at camp or on gentle walks. What fleece does not do is block wind or rain, so as soon as it gets breezy or wet you will want a shell over the top. Think of fleece as excellent warmth that needs a windproof or waterproof partner once the weather turns.
Fleece or a light down jacket as a mid-layer?
Both work under a shell, but they behave differently. Fleece breathes better, handles damp well and is tough, so it suits active, changeable days. Light down is warmer for its weight and packs smaller, so it wins when you want maximum warmth with minimum bulk and can keep it dry. A lot of people carry both: fleece for moving, down for stopping.
What is the difference between a fleece and a softshell?
A fleece is a warm, breathable knit layer with no real weather protection. A softshell adds a tougher, wind-resistant and often water-repellent outer face, sometimes over a fleece backing, so it does more to block the elements while staying stretchy and breathable. If you want pure warmth to layer, choose fleece; if you want one piece that also cuts wind and light showers for active use, look at a softshell.
How do I stop my fleece from pilling?
Pilling happens when fibres rub and tangle, so a little care goes a long way. Wash your fleece inside out on a gentle, cool cycle, avoid washing it with rough fabrics like denim or hook-and-loop straps, skip fabric softener, and air dry rather than using high heat. Better-quality fleeces resist pilling more, but any fleece lasts longer and looks better with gentle washing.
Full-zip, half-zip or pullover fleece, which should I choose?
A full-zip is the most versatile: easy to put on over other layers, quick to vent, and simple to take off without messing up your hair or hat. A half-zip saves a little weight and gives you neck ventilation while keeping more warmth in. A pullover is the lightest and often the cleanest looking, but is warmer to get on and off. Choose based on how much you value easy layering versus low weight.
Can I wear a fleece as an outer layer?
Absolutely, on cool, dry, still days a fleece makes a great outer layer for walking, camp or everyday wear. Just remember it offers no wind or rain protection, so keep a windbreaker or waterproof handy if conditions might change. As the outermost layer in fine weather, a good fleece is comfortable, breathable and easy to live in.