Polar fleece — aka microfleece, aka micrafleece aka fleece — is an inherently eco-friendly fiber. Made from same material as Tupperware and bottle caps, fleece becomes fleece when the material, PET (polyethylene terephthalate), is heated up and manipulated. Polyester is also made from PET. But unlike polyester, fleece is plush, breathable, and uber warm. Here are five fleeces culled from REI, the best retailer for fleece option at all prices and styles.
The Muir Woods jacket ($45) has a nice nubby texture and is available in vibrant fall colors. Pair this 62% recycled fleece with a flannel or button down shirt and corduroys and voila.
North Face makes the most widely known fleece jackets on the market. In fact, it has become such as staple item in the winter for warmth and style, it is not uncommon to see anyone from fraternity brothers to urban kids wearing the Denali fleece ($165), which is made from 87% recycled PET.
A vest ($49.50) is a great layer item. Wear it under a rain jacket, blazer, or trench coat to add a bit of warmth on days when the wind is whipping. If you don’t “get it” with vests, just try owning one for a season or two.
If you remember the first years that fleece came into style as a fashionable/practical alternative to a wool sweater, you probably remember that they looked like this. And personally, I’ve never gotten sick of this old school style –snaps at the neck and all– because while it’s not a zip-up, it is a classic ($95).
This uber thin fleece top ($68) is honest to goodness the softest thing you’ll ever touch. But if that’s not enough for you, check out the cool thumb loops that will keep your hands warm when it’s chilly out.
