Best Fleece Jackets for Women: 10 Fashionably Warm Options

Now that the cooler weather is in full effect, it’s difficult to go wrong adding a fleece jacket to a woman’s wardrobe, as a lighter-weight alternative to warm winter jackets (or to layer underneath one). Although there are multiple varieties of fleece to choose from, nearly all high-quality fleece jackets for women have one thing in common: they are so comfortably soft.

The best fleece jackets for women “are very versatile, can be dressed up or down, and are relatively inexpensive and easy to care for,” says personal stylist and fashion consultant Leena Alsulaiman. They are different from other pieces of clothing because they tend to fit more to one’s form and are typically not as bulky.

To find the best fleece jackets for women, I asked Alsulaiman for her recommendations in addition to conducting online research. Whether you’re looking for the best fleece jackets for women who like to run or spend most of their day in the office, read on for the top picks for your lifestyle.

Our top picks for the best fleece jackets for women

How we selected the best fleece jackets for women

To assemble my list of the best fleece jackets for women, I spoke with fashion stylists about different kinds of fleece and factors to consider when shopping. I also conducted online research where I examined the customer reviews and product information on a plethora of fleece jackets for women to discover the best ones.

What to consider when choosing a fleece jacket for women

Fit

Not all fleece jackets are created equal when it comes to their fit. “Consider whether you prefer a form-fitting jacket for layering or one with a more relaxed fit for comfortable wear,” says Alsulaiman. “Additionally, check for adjustable cuffs, hem, or hood features that offer customization for enhanced comfort and versatility.” When choosing a fleece jacket, think about what activities you plan on participating in when wearing it to ensure that it has the necessary features. Regardless of whether or not you prefer a slim, athletic, or relaxed fit, comfort should be key.

Insulation

When shopping for a jacket, you should consider how warm you’d ideally like to be once you have it on, as different fleece jackets offer different levels of insulation and are equipped with features that aid in the insulating process. “Evaluating the insulation properties of a fleece jacket is pivotal,” says Alsulaiman. “Some fleeces incorporate advanced features like thermal linings or multiple layers that offer superior warmth.”

Style

Although many fleece jackets have an athletic look to them, that is not the case for all of them. Some include a full zipper while others contain a half zipper or no zipper at all and are designed to be pulled over one's head. The style of a fleece jacket should depend on your preferences, as well as where and how you plan on wearing it, styling it, or layering it under or over hoodies and winter jackets.

Fleece types

Microfleece

Microfleece is the lightest type of fleece. “It’s very soft and comfortable to wear and is ideal for warmer weather or layering under other jackets,” explains Alsulaiman. Since it is a lighter type of fleece, it’s a good choice for wearing during increasingly intense physical activity since it’s more breathable.

Midweight fleece

Midweight fleece is the average fleece. “It is thicker and warmer than microfleece and can be worn in various weather conditions,” says Alsulaiman.

Heavyweight fleece

Alsulaiman shares that heavyweight fleece is the most suitable for activities that take place outside in colder weather. Heavyweight fleece tends to be warmer, weather-resistant, and increasingly durable (although less breathable) as a result.

Sherpa fleece

According to Alsulaiman, Sherpa fleece resembles sheepskin and is typically very soft, warm, and plush with regard to its texture.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Which is the warmest fleece?

The warmest fleece jackets for women are those made from heavyweight fleece. “Heavyweight fleece is the warmest type, followed by midweight fleece and microfleece,” says Alsulaiman. “Sherpa fleece is also very warm but less breathable than other types of fleece.”

Should fleece jackets be tight or loose?

Whether or not fleece jackets should be tight or loose depends on the wearer. However, “fleece jackets should fit loose enough for layering but not so loose that they look baggy,” explains Alsulaiman. “A good rule of thumb is to leave enough room for an undershirt and a light sweater.”

How can you tell if fleece is good quality?

According to Alsulaiman, if it has a soft and smooth feel and an even texture, it’s good quality. Additionally, she notes that high-quality fleece doesn’t have rough fibers or clumpy fibers.