What Is a Fleece Jacket? Types, Warmth & Uses

A fleece jacket is a soft, lightweight jacket made from brushed synthetic fabric — usually polyester — designed to trap warm air while staying breathable. It’s one of the most versatile layers you can own: warm without being bulky, quick to dry, and comfortable enough to wear on its own or under a heavier coat. For both men and women, a good fleece jacket is the piece that carries you through most of winter.

This guide explains what a fleece jacket is, the main types, how warmth is measured, and how to choose and wear one — whether you’re shopping for men’s or women’s fleece.

What is a fleece jacket made of?

Fleece is a knitted synthetic fabric, most often polyester, that’s brushed on one or both sides to raise a soft, fuzzy pile. Those tiny fibres trap pockets of warm air close to your body, which is what makes fleece feel warm despite being so light. Unlike wool it doesn’t itch, and unlike cotton it dries fast and keeps insulating even when slightly damp. That combination — warmth, breathability and quick-drying comfort — is why fleece became a winter staple for everyday wear, hiking and travel.

Types of fleece jackets

Not all fleece is the same. The main types differ by thickness, texture and purpose:

Microfleece — the thinnest, lightest fleece. Great as a base or mid-layer and for mild cold.
Mid-weight / polar fleece — the everyday all-rounder. Warm enough to wear alone in moderate winter and to layer when it’s colder. Most versatile for Indian winters.
Heavyweight fleece — denser and warmer, best for serious cold or low-activity days.
Sherpa fleece — the plush, wool-look fleece; cosy and stylish, often used as linings and casual jackets.
Grid fleece — a textured, breathable fleece built for active use, where you need warmth without overheating.

How warm is a fleece jacket? (Understanding GSM)

Fleece warmth is measured in GSM — grams per square metre. The higher the number, the denser and warmer the fabric. It’s the single most useful spec when comparing fleece jackets:

Fleece weight	GSM range	Best for
Lightweight	~100–200 GSM	Active mid-layer, running, mild cold
Mid-weight	200–300 GSM	Everyday winter wear & layering
Heavyweight	300+ GSM	Very cold, low-movement days

240 GSM sits right in the mid-weight sweet spot — warm enough to wear on its own for most Indian winters, light enough to layer under a jacket when the temperature drops. It’s the weight most people reach for first.

What is a fleece jacket used for?

A fleece jacket does three jobs:

As a standalone jacket — for mild to moderate winter days, commuting and everyday wear.
As a mid-layer — worn over a base layer and under a shell or down jacket in serious cold. This is where fleece shines.
For the outdoors — hiking, trekking and travel, where its light weight and breathability beat a bulky coat.

Because fleece breathes well, it keeps you warm while you move without trapping sweat — the reason it’s a favourite for active winter use.

Fleece jackets for men and women: what differs?

The fabric and performance are the same; the cut and sizing differ. Men’s fleece jackets have a straighter, roomier fit through the chest and shoulders, while women’s fleece is shaped with a more tailored waist and fit. Both come in full-zip, half-zip and vest styles. So the choice comes down to fit and style, not warmth — the GSM guidance above applies to both.

Shop the fit that’s right for you: fleece jackets for men and fleece jackets for women.

How to wear a fleece jacket

For everyday wear, a fleece layers easily over a T-shirt or shirt and under a coat. In colder weather, use the layering system: a base layer against the skin, the fleece as your mid-layer for warmth, and a water-resistant shell or winter jacket on top. A fleece vest is a good alternative when you want core warmth with full arm movement.

How to care for a fleece jacket

Fleece is low-maintenance. Machine wash cold with a mild detergent, skip bleach and fabric softener (softener clogs the fibres and reduces warmth), and avoid high-heat drying — air-dry or tumble on low. This protects the pile and prevents pilling, keeping your fleece soft and warm for years.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a fleece jacket good for winter?

Yes, for mild to moderate winter it works on its own, and in deep cold it’s an excellent mid-layer under a heavier jacket. A mid-weight 240 GSM fleece suits most Indian winters.

Is a fleece jacket waterproof?

No. Fleece is breathable and insulating, not waterproof. Some have a water-resistant finish for light rain, but for heavy rain or snow wear a waterproof shell over it.

What GSM fleece is best?

For everyday winter wear, 200–300 GSM (mid-weight) is the sweet spot. 240 GSM is warm enough to wear alone and light enough to layer.

Is fleece warmer than wool or cotton?

Fleece is warmer for its weight than cotton and dries much faster, and unlike wool it doesn’t itch. Wool can be warmer gram-for-gram but is heavier and slower to dry.

Can both men and women wear the same fleece?

The fabric is the same, but the fit differs — men’s fleece is cut straighter, women’s more tailored. Choose from the men’s or women’s range for the best fit.

Find your fleece

A fleece jacket is the most versatile winter layer you can own — warm, light and easy to wear alone or under a coat. For most people a mid-weight 240 GSM fleece is the perfect starting point. Explore Eddie Bauer fleece jackets for men and women to find your fit.