8 women’s fleece jackets to make winter slightly more bearable

When the temperatures drop, few things are as comforting as wrapping yourself in the perfect fleece jacket. Whether you’re heading out for a brisk morning walk, layering up for a day on the slopes, or just trying to survive your office’s aggressive air conditioning, a fleece jacket is an essential wardrobe staple.

The best fleece jackets for women aren’t just about warmth, they’re about versatility, comfort, and, let’s be honest, how effortlessly cool you look while wearing them. From sleek and structured designs to oversized, teddy-bear-soft sherpa styles or shackets, the right fleece can make all the difference in your winter wardrobe.

But not all fleece jackets are created equal. Some are designed for high-performance outdoor adventures, with weather-resistant finishes and technical fabrics that regulate body temperature. Others are made purely for cozy, off-duty days when you want to feel like a human marshmallow.

Then there are the layering-friendly options that slide effortlessly under a winter coat without adding bulk, and the designer picks that prove fleece can, in fact, be chic. Whatever your vibe, there’s a fleece jacket out there that fits your lifestyle and your budget.

To make your search easier, we’ve rounded up the best fleece jackets across a variety of categories. Whether you’re after a budget-friendly classic, a plush sherpa, or a high-tech, weather-resistant option, this list has something for everyone. Here are the best fleece jackets for women that will keep you warm and stylish all season long.

Be sure to check out our FAQ section down below on all things fleece and sherpa jacket shopping.

Best Overall: Arc’teryx Women’s Kyanite Hoodie

This versatile and high-performance mid-layer coat works for a range of outdoor activities. Featuring Polartec Power Stretch Pro fabric, it’s exceptionally warmth, breathable, and easy to move in. Our favorite features include the streamlined silhouette, thumbholes and abrasion-resistant exterior. Whether you’re climbing, hiking, or skiing, this hoodie provides functionality and style.

Size options: XS to XL | Material: Polartec Power Stretch Pro | Color options: Various, including Black, Tui, and Labyrinth

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Best Budget: Amazon Essentials Women’s Classic-Fit Full-Zip Polar Soft Fleece Jacket

If you’re seeking an affordable jacket that’s warm and functional, this is it. Made from ultra-soft polar fleece, it’s lightweight and features a full-length zipper, making it perfect for layering that you’ll love on chilly mornings. The high collar keeps the neck warm, while the cuffs lock the heat in and the cold out. This is a great pick for those seeking a fleece jacket for outdoor runs and other sports activities.

Size options: XS to XXL | Material: 100% polyester fleece | Color options: Multiple, including Black, Navy, and Burgundy

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Best Designer: Canada Goose Simcoe Fleece Jacket

The Canada Goose Simcoe Fleece Jacket combines luxury with high-performance warmth, making it a must-have for those who want style and function. Crafted from ultra-soft Kind High Pile Fleece, this jacket is designed to retain heat while remaining breathable. Reinforced Cordura fabric panels on high-wear areas ensure durability, while the high-neck design and sleek silhouette add an elevated touch. Featuring a two-way zipper, spacious pockets, and an adjustable hem for a customizable fit, this premium fleece jacket is built for both urban outings and outdoor adventures.

Size options: XS to XL | Material: Kind High Pile Fleece with Cordura fabric reinforcements | Color options: Black, Atlantic Navy, Limestone

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Best Sherpa: Quince Hooded Sherpa Jacket

Indulge in cloud-like softness with the Quince Hooded Sherpa Jacket, designed for ultimate coziness. This jacket features an oversized, relaxed fit with a plush Sherpa fleece exterior and a smooth, soft interior lining. The hood adds extra warmth, while the full-length zipper and deep pockets enhance functionality. Perfect for layering over casual outfits or lounging at home, this budget-friendly sherpa jacket brings both comfort and style without the hefty price tag.

Size options: XS to XL | Material: Recycled polyester sherpa fleece | Color options: Oatmeal, Charcoal, Olive

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Best Weather-Resistant: Outdoor Research Women’s Vigor Plus Fleece Hoodie

The Outdoor Research Women’s Vigor Plus Fleece Hoodie is designed to handle variable weather conditions. Featuring the ActiveTemp thermo-regulating technology, this hoodie adjusts to your body temperature to keep you comfortable during high-exertion activities. The grid-backed fleece provides breathability and moisture management, while the hood offers additional protection against the elements. Thumb loops and zippered pockets add to its functionality, making it a reliable choice for outdoor enthusiasts.

Size options: XS to XL | Material: Polyester fleece with ActiveTemp | Color options: Black, Naval Blue

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Best Hooded: KUHL Prima Flight Hoody

The KUHL Prima Flight Hoody is engineered for those who need lightweight warmth with an adventure-ready design. Featuring PrimaLoft Gold insulation, this fleece hoody delivers exceptional warmth without bulk. The unique Italian fleece construction ensures softness, while the articulated design allows for maximum mobility. A contoured hood offers extra protection against the elements, and the zippered pockets provide secure storage. Whether you’re hiking, traveling, or just navigating a cold morning, this hoody is built for performance and everyday wear.

Size options: XS to XL | Material: Italian fleece with PrimaLoft Gold insulation | Color options: Stone, Raven, Spruce

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Best Pullover: THE NORTH FACE Women’s Glacier Fleece Pullover Hoodie

Designed for lightweight warmth and versatility, THE NORTH FACE Women’s Glacier Fleece Pullover Hoodie is the perfect go-to layer for cool weather. Made with soft, breathable TKA 100 fleece, this pullover provides warmth without bulk, making it ideal for layering under a jacket or wearing on its own. The relaxed fit ensures all-day comfort, while the elastic-bound hood and cuffs help trap heat.

A classic kangaroo pocket offers both warmth and functionality, perfect for keeping hands cozy or storing small essentials. Whether you’re heading out for a brisk morning walk, running errands, or lounging at home, this fleece hoodie delivers effortless style and everyday comfort.

Size options: XS to XXL | Material: 100% recycled polyester TKA 100 fleece | Color options: TNF Black, Shady Blue, Gardenia White

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Best for Layering: Uniqlo Fleece Full-Zip Jacket

The Uniqlo Fleece Full-Zip Jacket is a sleek, lightweight option that’s ideal for layering in both casual and active settings. With a super soft and plush texture, this fleece jacket provides warmth without the bulk, making it easy to wear under heavier coats or on its own during milder temperatures. The full-zip design allows for easy on-and-off wear, while the streamlined fit provides a polished look. Uniqlo’s minimalist aesthetic shines in this piece, offering versatility that works for everything from lounging at home to brisk morning walks.

Size options: XS to XXL | Material: Polyester fleece | Color options: Multiple, including Beige, Gray, Navy, and Black

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FAQs

Is a fleece or puffer jacket warmer?

A puffer jacket is generally warmer than a fleece jacket due to its insulation properties. Puffer jackets are filled with either down (natural feathers) or synthetic insulation, which creates air pockets that trap and retain body heat. This insulation provides superior warmth, especially in freezing temperatures, making puffer jackets the preferred choice for extremely cold conditions.

Fleece jackets, on the other hand, are made from synthetic polyester fibers designed to mimic wool, offering lightweight warmth and breathability. While fleece is excellent for mild to cool temperatures and as a layering piece under a heavier coat, it does not provide the same level of heat retention as a puffer jacket. Additionally, fleece lacks windproof properties, meaning cold air can pass through the fabric, reducing its ability to retain warmth in harsh conditions.

However, fleece jackets excel in moisture-wicking and breathability, making them ideal for active use such as hiking, running, or layering under a shell jacket. Puffer jackets, while warmer, can be bulkier and less breathable, sometimes leading to overheating during physical activity.

Verdict: If warmth is the priority, a puffer jacket is the better option. If you need breathability and versatility, a fleece jacket is a great choice.

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Is Sherpa warmer than fleece?

Sherpa is often warmer than standard fleece because of its thicker, high-pile texture that mimics the look and feel of sheep’s wool. Sherpa fleece has a soft, fluffy surface that traps heat more effectively than traditional fleece, making it a great option for cold, dry climates where extra insulation is needed.

However, Sherpa fleece tends to be less breathable than standard fleece, meaning it retains more heat but does not wick moisture as efficiently. This can make it feel too warm or bulky in moderate or high-activity situations where ventilation is needed. Additionally, Sherpa can be prone to pilling and may shed fibers over time, whereas smooth fleece fabrics are generally more durable and easier to maintain.

For casual warmth and comfort, Sherpa is a great choice, especially in jackets and hoodies. However, if you need breathability and active performance, traditional fleece is the better option.

Verdict: Sherpa fleece is warmer but bulkier, while regular fleece is more versatile and breathable.

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What is the disadvantage of a fleece jacket?

The biggest disadvantage of a fleece jacket is its lack of wind and water resistance. Fleece is a soft, breathable material, which makes it great for layering and mild conditions, but it does not block wind or repel water effectively.

Other key disadvantages include:

• Not Windproof: Cold air can pass through fleece fabric easily, making it less effective in windy conditions unless paired with a windproof shell.
• Not Waterproof: Fleece absorbs moisture rather than repelling it, meaning it can become damp and lose warmth in rainy or snowy conditions.
• Pilling & Wear Over Time: Some fleece fabrics are prone to pilling, where small fabric balls form on the surface after repeated use and washing. While high-quality fleece resists this, cheaper fleece jackets can wear out quickly.
• Less Warm Than Insulated Jackets: While fleece provides warmth, it does not offer the same level of insulation as a down or synthetic puffer jacket, making it less suitable for extremely cold temperatures.

Despite these drawbacks, fleece remains a popular choice for layering, casual wear, and outdoor activities due to its lightweight comfort, breathability, and affordability. If warmth in extreme conditions is needed, a puffer jacket or an insulated fleece with a weather-resistant outer layer is a better option.

Verdict: Fleece jackets are great for layering and active use, but they lack windproof, waterproof, and extreme cold-weather insulation properties.

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