Best Hiking Fleece

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Both Scotland and Wales are countries of natural beauty, with terrain that makes for the most amazing hikes, regardless of whether you are looking for an easy-going route that a whole family will enjoy or something that only a more seasoned hiker should tackle. 

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One essential piece of clothing when hiking, particularly in Scotland or Wales is a good fleece. Both countries are known for their highly changeable weather and a fleece can provide a brilliant layer of protection against the elements for hikers.

This article will look at fleeces for the whole family, with 2 of the best fleeces currently available highlighted for men, women and children but before delving into the details of these fleeces, let’s examine what it is you should be looking for in a good fleece:

Weight

With all hiking equipment, you do not want anything to be too big and bulky when you are going to be wearing it for an extended period. Fleece jackets are typically very lightweight and are intended to be worn in moderately cold weather. They can also be utilised as a mid-layer and worn underneath a thicker jacket, to provide more protection against the elements.

Material

All fleeces are made out of polyester fleece. This is a very soft and cosy feeling material, very pleasant to touch. It is also a highly breathable, moisture-wicking fabric, great if you are perspiring while tackling a tough climb! A great plus point to note is that fleece can be made from old plastic bottles and more and more companies are utilising this eco-friendly method of making their fleeces.

Weather Resistance

Fleece tends to have good water resistance, it has often been treated with a water repellent, meaning moisture will bead off. However, this repellent will only go so far and in a heavy rainstorm, the fleece would soak and just become a soggy mess. In these circumstances, a rain shell would definitely be necessary. Fleece jackets are frequently described as breathable, this can mean though, that in windier conditions, you will feel that cold air. Some companies are attempting to combat this by creating fleeces with panels that are made of alternative fabrics to attempt to keep you warmer. Otherwise, if you know it is likely to be windy on your hike, another layer would be advisable.

So, there we have it, some key features to think about when making the decision to purchase a fleece. Now let’s delve right into our pick of the best fleeces, starting with our two choices for men. All of the below choices can be easily found and bought on Amazon and the URL’s will be included to provide direct access to any product that takes your interest!

First up is the Patagonia Men’s R1 Air Zip Neck Sweatshirt available at:

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This is a slightly pricier option ranging from £76 – £132.68, depending on size. Sizes available range from XS – XXL. This fleece is 100% recycled polyester, so a great option for the environmentally conscious, it is machine washable and quick-drying. It is great on its own during warmer weather but also lightweight and streamlined so that it can be easily utilised as a mid-layer under a jacket in colder weather. Patagonia is a very well known brand and also one that is very conscious and open and honest about its carbon footprint. 

The second men’s option comes from the well know brand Berghuas. It is their Men’s Prism Micro Interactive Polartic Fleece Jacket, available at:

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This is a slightly cheaper offer than the Patagonia fleece at £44.99 – £60.00, available in sizes XS – 3XL. The Polartec fleece will provide brilliant warmth without adding a lot of weight or bulk to this fleece, meaning that it can still be layered up as required. This fleece actually features an interactive zip, meaning that compatible waterproof jackets can be attached even easier.

Next to our two top women’s choices. Firstly, we have a fleece by the popular brand Craghoppers, with their women’s Miska Fleecepullover Damen Fleece Jacket. Available at:

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This is brilliantly priced at between £22.49 – £38.99 dependent on size and colour (this is available in blue, lime and red). Sizes available are 34 – 46 inch chest. This fleece is machine washable, lightweight and quick-drying. Another plus is that Craghoppers states that approximately 12 bottles are recycled in the making of one of these fleeces.

Second for the women’s choices is an excellent option by TOG 24 with their Shire Womens Fleece Jacket, available at:

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This is a budget buy at just £22.50 and it also ranges from UK size 8 – 24! It is lightweight and incredibly soft to wear – the inside fleece has been brushed up to give it an incredibly soft, fluffy warmth. This fleece is also machine washable and ant-pill, meaning that it will stay looking good for longer. TOG 24 also provide a one year guarantee with their products, but as this Yorkshire based company has been well known for its products since 1958, I doubt it would be needed!

Last, but not least, our children’s picks! First up is a great option from Regatta with their Kids Hot Shot Fleece. Available at: 

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This ranges in price from £4.71 – £56.70 depending on size and colour. It is available in sizes 3 – 15. One side of this fleece has been brushed to provide a soft, warm fuzziness, that I’m sure children will fall in love with! The other side is anti-pill to keep it looking its best. The only slight downside to this fleece is that it states it is handwash only. 

Finally, our last fleece is a children’s option from Mountain Warehouse. It is their Camber Kids Microfleece Hoodie available at:

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This is a great value fleece for kids, priced at £7.99 – £11.99, again dependent on size/colour. Sizes ⅔ – 13 are available. This fleece is lightweight, machine washable and quick-drying. It is also anti-pill to keep it looking its best and features an added bonus of UV protection!

So there we have it, regardless of whether you are looking for a man, woman or child, you now have great knowledge of what to look out for when purchasing a hiking fleece, along with two excellent suggestions for each. However, the most important thing, is simply to get out there and enjoy yourself!

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