Best Fleeces for Hiking in 2026 | Tested and Reviewed
For effective layering during cold weather, or even as standalone warmth during mild summer days, a good fleece will go a long, long way - here's out favourites, all tried and tested by our gear testing team
The dependable fleece. Able to join you on lofty summits, whilst being tucked under a protective shell and insulating layers, yet still something that wouldn’t look out of place during a post-hike pint down the pub.
We’ve all got a favourite fleece in our wardrobe that can tackle all conditions – something that has been going strong for about 10 years of hard use. But with modern fabric developments, modern fleeces are now able to offer a whole lot more than the fleeces of yesteryears. These days, they don’t just offer something for warmth alone, you can also find something that’s unrestrictive, breathable, able to regulate your temperature, dry quickly, wick sweat and not weigh you down either.
Many of the fleeces included in this roundup can also be used as a standalone layer. None of these fleeces will be fully wind or waterproof, but they’ll keep light rain and wind at bay whilst you’re keeping active through the mountains.
How We Tested The Fleeces
The first round of testing for this article was conducted by OM contributor Jordan Tiernan, pictured below during some ski touring and mountaineering tests in the Alps. Further testing has since been conducted by the wider Outdoors Magic gear testing team, including editor Will and editorial assistant Jazz. Will has conducted the majority of his tests throughout the mountains of Wales and the hills of Wiltshire, while Jazz conducted her recent tests in Ireland this winter and will be continuing her tests up in Scotland this month. It’s safe to say, these fleeces have been through the lot.
The Proton Hoody with the Aconcagua Pro layered beneath out for test in wet snow conditions, whilst ski touring in France.
The Aconcagua Pro had to breathe well on this particularly warm day whilst ski touring in France – it held up well.
The Best Fleeces of 2026 | Our Favourites
In this article, we’ve whittled it down to the 10 fleeces that we think are the best. And while we’ve tested both men’s and women’s options here, if you’re only looking for women’s fleeces, here’s a handy guide for that too.
Patagonia R1 Fleece Hoody – Best women’s fleece overall
Keela Genesis Fleece – Best men’s fleece overall, and best mid to heavyweight fleece
Rab Quantra Pro Hoody – Best lightweight fleece, according to our tests
Arc’teryx Kyanite Fleece Hoody – Most versatile fleece for multi-activity use
Alpkit Griffon – Best value fleece if you’re on a budget
Helly Hansen Odin Pro Shield Jacket
Mammut Aconcagua Pro
Jack Wolfskin Expedition Blizzard
Norrøna Trollveggen
The North Face 100 Glacier
Editor’s note: This article was last updated in February 2026 to ensure that all of the products are still available for purchase. Rab’s Quantra Pro Hoody also made it into the list after impressing our tests, and Patagonia’s R1 Fleece Hoody recently replaced the Arc’teryx Kyanite as the best women’s fleece overall, according to our tests. Helly Hansen’s Odin Pro Shield jacket was also added after impressing tester and editor Will.
1. Patagonia R1 Fleece Hoody
Our choice of the best women’s fleece overall from our tests
Jazz is pictured here using the Patagonia R1 fleece on some hiking trails in the Outer Hebrides, Scotland.
The Patagonia R1 fleece is a technical hoody purpose-built for alpine adventures. Made from a 93% recycled polyester and 7% elastane blend, it’s got a light and stretchy feel that both retains heat while wicking away any excess sweat. That’ll be thanks to the Polartec power grid technologies that feature a patented grid pattern with hundreds of insulating squares that increase thermal warmth while maintaining temperature regulation.
OM women’s gear tester Jazz has been using this fleece for over 6 months now. She said, “On test, I found that the R1 fleece was ideal for quick mountain days when you’re really pounding out the miles on the trail. It’s got the balance of warmth-to-weight ratio just right for fast hiking adventures. I also found the slim fit useful for layering in the colder months as it can fit under most average-sized waterproof jackets. This also means it takes up minimal space in your pack when you’re not using it.”
“I loved the stretchiness of it too, particularly when scrambling, and can picture it being a staple choice for climbers in particular. I’d personally have liked more pocket options but that depends on how much you stuff your pockets really (I do a lot) and what activity you’re using it for.”
“I’m yet to test the R1 during the warmer months here in the UK so I’ll update this review as time goes on. So far, I’ve found the breathability to be really effective so I’m intrigued to see if that holds up in the summer.”
Pros: super stretchy, wicks away sweat well Cons: would like more useful pockets
Full Specifications
Polartec Power Grid fabric combined with Capilene Thermal Weight baselayer fabric / HeiQ Pure odour control / low-profile, helmet-compatible hood / slim fit / deep center-front zipper / zippered left-chest pocket with an air-permeable mesh pocket bag / offset shoulder seams / thumb holes on the cuffs / made in a Fair Trade Certified factory.
This isn’t just a fleece, it’s a full-blown suit of armour that serves as a reliable shield from the elements. And that’s because this thing’s not just warm, it’s waterproof too. We’ve been using it extensively through some wild North Wales weather and it’s been the ideal option to turn to.
It features an inner soft fleece, an outer fleece that has a bit more bulk to it, with the hydrophilic lining in between them also helping to lock in warmth and to fully block out the wind and rain. During our tests, we’ve found it to be about as warm as a mid to heavy weight down or synthetic insulated jacket.
OM editor and experienced gear tester Will said: “This is a very warm and comfortable fleece. The wet weather performance is excellent. The outer fleece fabric has good water resistance and water beads off it nicely so this alone will see off light rainfall well. Once the heavy stuff arrives, that’s where the hydrophilic lining comes into action. This is actually also designed to pull moisture away from your skin and spread it across the fabric so it can evaporate more quickly, helping you stay dry and comfortable during activity. Does it work? I’d say so. I’ve not felt clammy when wearing the Genesis and it feels like just a typical thickly-layered fleece.”
The Keela Genesis also has a cinchable hem and a zipped front with a storm flap. There are two zipped handwarmer pockets that are very cosy and then there’s also a cord at the collar for locking in that extra bit of warmth. The cuffs are elasticated too, though a touch on the tight side. We are finding that they’re loosening up a bit with time though.
Pros: very protective, functions as an outer layer very well, comfy Cons: not suitable for high output outdoor activities
Full Specifications
100% polyester Zetland 100 fabric / waterproof and windproof / hydrophilic film built into the fleece / condensation control / neck baffle / reinforced shoulders & elbows / zipped hip pockets / articulated sleeves / elasticated cuffs / shockcords with locks at hem / fully tape sealed.
OM editor Will is pictured here using the Rab Quantra Pro in the Lake District. Photo: Dave MacFarlane.
Price: £120 Weight: 339g Best for: high output activities, fast hiking, trail running, climbing Breathability Rating: 5/5 Warmth Rating: 3/5
The Rab Quantra Pro is one of those nifty mid-layers that brings a lot of versatility to the table. Made using Rab’s Thermic Pro Fleece – which is very similar to Polartec Power Grid – it’s a layer primarily designed for low-bulk insulation while hiking, climbing and ski touring.
During our tests, we found that it balances insulation and breathability very well, and combines durability and excellent stretch for unimpeded movement over varied terrain. Its streamlined profile makes layering easy, making it ideal for fast, high-energy activities.
OM tester Will said, “The Rab Quantra Pro is a genuinely versatile mid-layer that punches above its weight. Its Thermic Pro grid fleece delivers an impressive mix of warmth, breathability and stretch, making it equally at home on big hill days, chilled trail runs or stop–start climbing sessions. It layers smoothly, dries quickly and stays comfortable across a wide range of conditions. The only real drawback is its tendency to pick up odour faster than merino or treated synthetics. Still, for anyone wanting a low-bulk, high-output midlayer that works year-round, the Quantra Pro is a reliable and very capable choice.”
Pros: great for high energy activities, good breathability, comfy over long periods, stretchy Cons: not ideal for very cold conditions, could do with some anti-odour treatment
Full Specifications
Soft, stretchy Thermic Pro fleece / wind-resistant / under-helmet hood / two zipped A-line pockets / elasticated hood and cuffs / dual-sided rear hem adjustment / full-length front zip with chin guard / regular fit.
Here we have the classic Kyanite fleece from Arc’teryx. Recently updated to include an internal key pocket and a more streamlined fit, the Kyanite features a relatively straightforward design combined with thermo-regulating, four-way stretch Polartec textiles. Abrasion-resistant nylon is also used to prevent ripping in the fabric.
Elsewhere on the Kyanite you’ll find a stretchy hood and hem, two zippered hand pockets, a flatlock seam construction to reduce bulk, more stretchiness at the cuffs, and articulated patterning throughout.
OM women’s tester Jazz said, “While I wouldn’t use it for ultra-cold weather, during my tests I found that it was great as an all-rounder fleece for activities such as day hiking, multi-day treks, bouldering and general campsite shenanigans. It fits nicely in between a base layer and a shell jacket but also provides enough warmth for those milder days too. I particularly liked the super soft interior that really elevates your comfort when out hiking and wicks away sweat quickly too.”
“The only downside I’ve found is that it’s started to pill a little on the back from when I’ve sat down on rough surfaces, however, the rest of the jacket has held up well against abrasion so far. The stretchiness is another big plus for me as it really gives that unrestricted feeling in your movements out on the trail.”
Pros: versatile, warm, very stretchy Cons: seems prone to pilling
Full Specifications
Polartec Power Stretch Pro combines a durable nylon face with a soft, comfortable, brushed polyester interior / PFAS-compliant / recycled content / full zip with chin guard / low profile ScubaHood / two zipped hand pockets on the outside / internal mesh pocket / raglan sleeves / hood, cuffs, & hem hood bound with Tanica stretch fabric / articulated patterning / slim fit.
Price: £60
Weight: 290g (size-dependant) Best for: everyday use, day hiking, mild weather Breathability Rating: 3.5/5 Warmth Rating: 3.5/5
Another extremely lightweight fleece, the Griffon by Alpkit utilises a similar (but lower bulk) grid design to Polartec’s Power Air. This pattern creates pockets of warmth while also expelling any sweat vapour through small channels.
Alpkit have designed the Griffon with a close-to-skin fit, which means that it can also be used as a warm base layer, if you don’t mind the feeling of a full length zip next to your skin.
At only 290g (size-dependant) and with a £54.99 price tag (now on sale for £45), this is a hard to beat fleece with great value for money. Whilst it’s never going to be as warm as many of the other fleeces in this roundup, it will make a great summertime companion.
Pros: great value, lightweight, a solid all-rounder Cons: not the highest spec option here
Full Specification
S – XXL / Alpkit’s 3 year alpine bond / full length Vislon zip / snug fitting lycra bound hood / external chest zip for valuables / two-tone smooth face.
Buy the women’s Alpkit Griffon Microfleece Jacket: £60 at Alpkit.com
Will is pictured here testing the Helly Hansen Odin Pro Shield Jacket out and about in Wales (with furry testing assistant Griff).
Price: £140 (sale) Weight: 450g Best for: technical use, high output activities, fast hiking, ski touring Breathability Rating: 4/5 Warmth Rating: 3/5
This is quite similar to the Rab Quantra Pro in its combination of a softshell outer and gridded fleece inner. This, however, is much more beefed up than the Quantra Pro, offering more wind resistance, durability and insulation.
OM editor Will Renwick has been testing it out through the winter and has been impressed with it. “I’ve really liked having this in my armoury,” said Will. “It’s been very handy for those times where it’s cold and windy but I’m getting the blood pumping and need breathability.”
If you like a close-fitting fleece, Will recommends sticking with your usual size. But if you like a loose layer that you can throw over other thicker layers, go a size up. “I sized up and am glad I did,” said Will. “It pairs really nicely over another layer of insulation and I can still wear a shell over the top to create a very effective winter system.”
Pros: Windproof, warm, durable, useful details, layers well Cons: No cuff adjustment, no handwarmer pockets, quite pricey.
OM tester Jordan is pictured on the left wearing the Aconcagua fleece in France during some ski touring.
Price: £135
Weight: 433g Best for: technical use, high output activities, fast hiking, ski touring Breathability Rating: 4/5 Warmth Rating: 3/5
The Aconcagua fleece from Swiss manufacturer Mammut utilises high-quality fleece materials strategically designed to help your body manage its climate effectively. In short, the name of the game here is top-level temperature regulation.
It uses Polartec’s classic Power Stretch Pro fabric, an ingredient that has become a mainstay in the midlayer market. It’s a 4-way stretch, shape retaining fabric that is engineered to be both moisture wicking and highly breathable. Work hard and this stuff breathes with you. Integrated into this is the abrasion-resistant nylon finish, further ensuring the jacket holds up against the wear and tear of mountain life.
The Aconcagua has also been designed with a classically European slim fit. Tester Jordan said, “I found this to be the closest fitting of all the fleeces that I tested in this roundup, so I’d suggest to size up if you usually prefer a more traditional fit.”
Pros: good breathability, great for layering, abrasion-resistant Cons: sizing runs small, not the warmest on the list
Full Specification
S – XXL / YKK Vislon front zip / Polartec Power Stretch Pro / abrasion-proof nylon surface / under helmet hood / flat chin guard and zipper underlay / back-pack compatible side zipper pockets / Raglans sleeves / thumb loops.
One of our tests is pictured on the left wearing an older iteration of the Blizzard jacket.
Price: £125 (sale) Weight: 762g Best for: use as a standalone outer layer, day hiking, casual walking Breathability Rating: 3/5 Warmth Rating: 4/5
If fleece has a drawback in performance terms, it’s that it’s not especially wind-resistant. And of course, its other major drawback is that it’s made of synthetic fibres, which are ultimately derived from petrochemicals and therefore not very eco-friendly. Jack Wolfskin’s Blizzard jacket attempts to overcome both of these issues with an innovative 3-layer fleece construction that incorporates exclusive Polartec Windbloc fabric, made from a fully recycled outer and inner plus a waterproof, breathable, Jack Wolfskin Texapore Ecosphere membrane in between – which is also made entirely from reused/recycled content.
The result is a windproof and highly weather-resistant fleece that works well not just as a midlayer but also as a warm outer layer in chilly, gusty and drizzly weather. It’d be well suited to weekend walks from spring through to autumn, but perhaps not – despite the name – the ideal piece of outerwear in an actual blizzard.
The Blizzard is basically a membraned ‘hard face’ fleece, which ensures it is windproof and water repellent. But it’s also warm and reasonably breathable too, as well as being soft and comfortable thanks to a brushed inner lining. Pit zips under the arms also help you to dump heat fast.
On the outside of the jacket, the shoulders and lower sleeves are reinforced with an extra-robust 500-denier Oxford polyamide (nylon) fabric, which should be very resistant to abrasion from pack straps as well as general wear and tear. Unusually, the jacket is also equipped with a rollaway lightweight hood that stows neatly in the jacket collar. Other features include 2 hand pockets, a chest pocket and an inner pocket as well as an adjustable hem.
Pros: very tough, highly weather-resistant, soft and comfy, great pit zips Cons: a little warm for some, not the most breathable
Full Specifications
Polartec Windbloc 3-layer fabric / fully recycled outer and inner / waterproof-breathable, recycled and reused Jack Wolfskin Texapore Ecosphere membrane /boxy fit / 3-season compatible / brushed inner lining / pit zips under arms / 500-denier Oxford nylon reinforced shoulders and lower sleeves / rollaway hood in jacket collar / 2 hand pockets / chest pocket / inner pocket / adjustable hem.
The trollveggen from Norwegian outdoor brand Norrøna is one sturdy midlayer fleece built with colder temperatures in mind. It’s designed for the harsh and rugged landscapes of Norway after all.
Made with 100% recycled polyester, the trollveggen uses Polartec® Thermal Pro® technologies to create air pockets that trap air and retain body heat. The result is a fleece with a great warmth-to-weight ratio and excellent breathability.
In terms of features there’s a zippered chest pocket, two hand warming pockets, elastic cuffs with thumb holes, a protective collar and articulated arms for freedom of movement.
Pros: ideal for cold climates, recycled content, very tough, premium materials Cons: will be too warm for some, pricey
Full Specifications
100% recycled Polartec® Thermal Pro® polyester fabric / zipped chest pocket / two hand warming pockets / elastic cuffs with thumb holes / protective collar / Y-cut / articulated arms / six colour options / S to XXL / Oeko-Tex Certified Fabric.
Price: approx £40
Weight: approx. 302g Best for: everyday use, good as a midlayer, lightweight hiking Breathability Rating: 3.5/5 Warmth Rating: 3.5/5
While not the most technical on the list, The North Face 100 Glacier 1/4 zip jacket is a bit of a staple on the midlayer market. You’ll have no doubt passed a skier or three rocking it out and about on the mountains at the après ski.
It’s made from a polyester microfleece that uses an effective, lofted structure to create both a warm and lightweight jacket overall. Like many temperature-controlling technologies out there, the Glacier utilises air pockets in the fabric to trap air and heat in the garment, while at the same time allowing for breathability.
Impressively, this fleece is also part of TNF’s Circular Design initiative, a collection designed to minimise waste and pollution by recycling garments and producing highly durable gear, amongst other things.
Pros: recycled content, super soft and comfy Cons: not ideal for technical use, minimal features
Full Specifications
1/4 zip microfleece / 100% recycled polyester / sleeve opening and bottom hem binding / no shoulder seams / lofted structure / nine colour options / XS to XL / part of TNF’s Circular Design initiative / standard fit.
