What is fleece?
fleece Fleece is a synthetic knit fabric made from polyester fibers, often with the addition of spandex or lycra for elasticity. When considering fleece, it's important to note that it's a lightweight, breathable, and water-repellent fabric created in 1979 by Malden Mills (now Polartec) as a technologically advanced alternative to sheep's wool.
The fabric's key feature is its fiber structure. During the production process, the fibers are combed with special brushes, creating numerous air pockets that effectively retain body heat.
The material has pronounced hydrophobic properties. It absorbs less than 1% of its own weight in moisture, maintaining its warmth even when wet and drying very quickly after getting wet or washing.
Main types
Depending on the density, structure and purpose, there are several types of fleece fabric.
- Microfleece (up to 100 g/m²) – the thinnest and most elastic option. Used for base layers, thermal underwear, and lightweight shirts.
- Classic fleece (Polar fleece, 200-300 g/m²) is a standard material for sewing warm sweaters, sweatshirts and demi-season jackets.
- Sherpa Sherpa fleece is a voluminous material with a long pile on the face, visually and tactilely imitating natural sheepskin. It is often used for outerwear and linings.
- Fleece with a windproof membrane (Windblock) is a multi-layer material in which a polyurethane film is embedded between the layers of pile, completely blocking the wind.
- Fabrics with anti-pilling treatment — fleece that has undergone a special heat treatment. This prevents the pile from pilling during active wear and washing.
What to combine with
Within the gorpcore aesthetic, zip-up fleece jackets are a standalone wardrobe staple. They pair with straight-leg jeans, cargo pants, and chunky trekking sneakers.
Oversized sherpa fleece pullovers are paired with chunky leggings, tall cotton socks, and chunky cleat boots for a relaxed, urban look.
A thin fleece sweater with a half-zip collar is often used in layering outfits. It's worn over a thin turtleneck or under a classic straight-cut wool coat, creating a contrast between sporty and formal textures.
Thick fleece vests are worn over basic cotton hoodies or plaid flannel shirts. This top pairs beautifully with loose-fitting corduroy trousers.
