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Stay warm this winter with one of these essential midlayers
Fleeces have had a transformation in recent years. Oversized, retro-style designs have become a staple for most fashion-focused brands, while the popularity of walking and hiking has seen an increase in the options of technical apparel on offer.
At its core, a fleece should be able to be worn as an outer layer on mild days or as a midlayer beneath a waterproof jacket or thick winter coat during colder climes. Temperature regulation is just as important as keeping you warm though, and the best fleeces will keep you cosy without causing you to overheat.
Not all fleeces are the same though. On one side, you’ll find the fashion-focused designs that go big on fluffy materials, eye-catching colourways and bold branding. On the other, the fleece’s aim is to be lightweight, subtle and constructed from technical fabrics.
For this article, we tested fleeces from across the spectrum. Each was put through its paces in a number of settings – from everyday wear around the home and on the streets of London, to afternoons spent hiking in bare woodland of Epping Forest – and temperatures varied from low double digits to truly wintry conditions.
To be featured in our round-up of the best fleeces, the product had to do what it claimed in its marketing material, as well as keep us comfortable throughout. Handwarmer and storage pockets were both added bonuses. Each was washed as per care instructions as well to ensure that it kept its shape.
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The North Face Denali sherpa jacket was the best all-round fleece we tested, combining a stylish look with winter-worthy warmth ideal for exploring all environments. For a fully functional fleece, the price and capabilities of the Rab Filament hoody are tough to beat, while the eco-credentials of the Patagonia, Cotopaxi, Passenger and Finisterre fleeces are worth a special mention.
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Protect yourself from unpredictable weather with our review of the best men’s waterproof jackets