Fleece or softshell: how to choose?

Hey guys it's Alicia here with some new insights! 👀 Today we're going to look at the difference between a polar and softshell jacket. Happy reading and feel free to leave a comment if you have any questions!

This article looks at the advantages and disadvantages of fleeces and softshell jackets, and the best times to wear them.

Key points

Introduction

When you're looking for a jacket for your outdoor activities, comfort and protection are essential criteria.

Two of the most popular options are the fleece jacket and the softshell jacket. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, and choosing between the two can sometimes be difficult.

In this article, we'll take a look at the features of fleece and softshell jackets to help you choose the one that best suits your needs.

What is a polar fleece ?

A polar fleece is a synthetic textile garment, usually made from polyester, designed to provide excellent thermal insulation.

The fleece fabric is soft, lightweight and often lined with a soft layer that traps body heat, providing optimum comfort in cold weather.

Advantages

• Excellent thermal insulation: Fleece is renowned for its ability to retain heat, making it ideal for cold-weather activities. They are particularly suited to cold days without strong winds or rain.
• Comfort and softness: The soft texture of the fabric offers immediate comfort, pleasant to wear directly against the skin or as a mid-layer. This comfort is unbeatable when relaxing or doing moderate activities such as winter walks, camping or evenings out.
• Good breathability: Fleece allows moisture to evaporate, helping to regulate body temperature during moderate activities.
• Versatility as a mid-layer: In extremely cold conditions, a fleece jacket can be used as a mid-layer under a waterproof jacket. This provides extra warmth without compromising mobility.

Disadvantages

• Less protection: Unlike softshell jackets, fleeces are not designed to withstand wind or rain. They often require an additional outer layer for complete protection.
• Less durable: Fleeces are less robust and can wear out more quickly when exposed to harsh conditions.
• Use: Fleeces are ideal for environments where you need to stay warm without direct exposure to the elements, such as unheated warehouses or workshops.

In short, fleece jackets are an excellent choice for activities where warmth and comfort are paramount, but they often need to be complemented by another layer for protection against the elements.

What is a softshell jacket?

A softshell jacket is a technical garment designed to offer protection against  wind or rain while remaining flexible and comfortable.

It's usually made from synthetic materials such as polyester and elastane, often with an integrated membrane that provides wind and water resistance, as well as breathability.

Advantages

• Protection: Softshell jackets are designed to resist wind and light showers, offering some protection against light showers thanks to their water-repellent treatment.
• Freedom of movement: Thanks to their stretch fabric and snug fit, softshells allow great freedom of movement, making them ideal for dynamic activities such as hiking or cycling.

• Versatility: These jackets can be worn as an outer layer in mild weather or as a mid-layer under a waterproof jacket for added protection.

Disadvantages

• Less warm: Softshells offer moderate protection against the cold and are generally less insulating than fleece jackets. They may require an extra layer in very low temperatures.
• Less comfortable for low-intensity activities: For activities where warmth and comfort are paramount, such as rest periods or low-intensity activities, a fleece jacket may be more appropriate.

In short, a softshell jacket is a versatile and practical choice for outdoor activities, offering good protection against wind and moisture while allowing great freedom of movement.

Best way to print on softshell? Find out here!

As you can see, a softshell jacket is a must-have item in your wardrobe, practical in many situations.

Polar fleece vs. Softshell

Criteria	Polar Fleece	Softshell​
Warmth and insulation	Excellent thermal insulation, ideal for cold-weather activities. Retains body heat effectively.	Provides moderate warmth, but requires an extra layer in very low temperatures.
Weather Protection	Less effective against wind and moisture, often needs a waterproof outer layer for complete protection.	Windproof, offers some protection against light showers thanks to a water-repellent treatment.
Breathability and comfort	Highly breathable, ideal for moderate activities where moisture wicking is essential.	Breathable and better suited to intense physical activity, thanks to a stretch fabric for greater comfort and freedom of movement.
Versatility and use	Ideal for activities in cold, dry weather (winter walks, hiking in dry weather), or as a mid-layer under a waterproof jacket.	Extremely versatile, suitable for a wide range of outdoor activities (hiking, cycling, light winter sports) and can be used as an outer or mid-layer.

In short, the choice between a fleece and a softshell depends on your specific needs and the conditions in which you plan to use them. Fleeces are perfect for warmth and comfort, while softshells offer better protection against the wind or rain and greater versatility.

Conclusion

Choosing between a fleece jacket and a softshell jacket depends mainly on your specific needs and the conditions in which you plan to use them.

Fleece jackets are perfect for providing maximum warmth and cosy comfort in cold, dry weather, while softshell jackets stand out for their versatility, protection against wind and light showers, and great freedom of movement.

For outdoor activities where temperatures can vary and protection from the elements is required, softshell jackets are often the wisest choice. On the other hand, for cold but stable environments, a fleece jacket will be your ally in staying warm.