How to choose the right fleece

Originally named polar fleece when it was developed in 1979, the aim of fleece was to outdo wool. These days it’s a key piece of clothing that will keep you warm and comfortable in the outdoors.

Fleece is made from synthetic material named after the natural fleece coat on sheep. Ironically, it's commonly made from polyester and recycled polyester and it’s a remarkable material given how soft and wearable it is.

Your typical fleece acts as a midlayer between your base and outer. It’s effective at trapping body heat and sustaining warmth. Fleece is an insulating fabric made from hydrophobic fibres, meaning it repels water and still insulates you while not getting too heavy when wet.

When fleece was first manufactured, garments were divided into groups according to their weight. This categorisation is still in use today and fleece continues to be described in grams per square metre (gsm).

Fleece that weighs less than 200 gsm is deemed lightweight. It can also be defined as microfleece.

Lightweight fleece offers you a high level of breathability. It’s your original midlayer. Wear it over your baselayer and under your waterproof shell.

You’ll want a microfleece for active pursuits in mild weather – ideal when you need flexibility during exercise.

Covering the middle ground of the range of fleece are the midweights. Between 200 and 300 gsm, midweight fleece has less flexibility than microfleece. It can be used as an outer layer in cooler conditions or as a midlayer when you also need a jacket and a baselayer.

Compared to lightweight fleece, midweight fleece is:

• Significantly warmer
• A better insulator
• More comfortable and breathable

Fleece is so popular because it's so versatile – it can be used for a variety of outdoor pursuits, domestic and international travel, and of course, everyday wear.

Fleece is a must-have addition to your hiking kit. You'll reach for it when you cool down on lunch stops, on those cool and gusty summits, or during unpredictable weather conditions.

In any case, it's always a sensible idea to have a warm layer in your backpack in the unlikely scernario you get lost. You'll be grateful for it if you have to spend an unexpected night on the trail!

Factor in your individual weather conditions and consider these before your next hike.

• Torino Fleece Jacket – At just 48g, this fleece is surpisingly warm for it's weight.
• Escarpar Fleece Pullover – keeps you comfortable while moving or when you reach your campsite. It also prevent wear and tear from hiking backpacks.
• Ridge Pullover - Designed with mountains and hills in mind, the Ridge is a durable fleece that manages moisture while you're on the move.
• Trailhead Fleece Jacket – a hike fleece that's part of a 3-in-1 zip system for all your outdoor layering needs. The Trailhead is made from REPREVE fabric, and helps divert plastic bottles from landfill.

Lightweight, breathable, and snuggly to boot, you’ll definitely want a travel fleece for your next overseas adventure. From in-transit to day hikes to exploring the city streets, a good fleece will see you through:

• Expedite fleece – a versatile midlayer that can be worn under your jackets or on its own.
• Disperse Fleece Jacket – lightweight and breathable, pulling moisture away from your skin.
• Arenha Lightweight Fleece Jacket – with important security features like secure zip pockets and an internal passport pocket.

We all need a trusty, reliable warm layer to pop on while we're walking the dog, trimming the roses or just watching a footy. For a fleece that keeps you warm outside (without all the bells and whistles) there's a few options.

• Acota Hooded Jacket – stretches with your movements whether you’re an outdoor sportsperson or just watching from the sidelines.
• Baffin Island Fleece Jacket – this seriously warm, seriously snuggly fleece pays homage to our original design. Same retro look (with more modern styling) the Baffin now features durable water repellancy to repel light rain off its surface.

Fleece isn't just for outdoor pursuits. Some fleece is meant for everyday use. Here are a couple of good all-rounders you can wear every day of the week.

• Aikman Lightweight Fleece Jacket – wear it after work or at weekends. It looks like a jumper yet performs like a fleece.
• Flaxmere Longline Jacket – Pictured above, the Flaxmere has all of the warmth of fleece with a more sophisticated edge.  Styllish, warm and comfortable, it's at home in the outdoors but transitions seamlessly into your everday wardrobe.