Warm, cosy and breathable: The best women’s fleece jackets for hiking

The Patagonia R1 Full-Zip Hoody is perhaps the best outdoor mid-layer we've ever tested. Its outstanding warmth-to-weight ratio makes it ideal for outdoor activities across various conditions. Winning our coveted 5 star rating, we cannot recommend it highly enough.

This jacket uses Patagonia’s Regulator fleece, a blend of recycled polyester and spandex with a grid pattern that efficiently traps heat, breathes well, and dries quickly. The R1’s snug fit layers easily under outerwear, while its stretch allows freedom of movement for climbing, hiking, or skiing.

Key features include a full-length zipper for ventilation, a zippered chest pocket, and a fitted hood that fits under a helmet for added warmth in cold weather. Fitted cuffs keep the sleeves in place, and the bright orange details set everything off perfectly in terms of style. While its close fit may feel restrictive to some, the R1 excels in warmth without added bulk, making it a go-to for minimalist packers.

Designed with sustainability in mind, the R1 is made from 93% recycled materials and is Fair Trade certified, appealing to eco-conscious users. However, this hoody comes at a premium price point, which may be a drawback for budget-conscious shoppers - but wait until you see what Arc'teryx want from you before squeaking over the cost of the R1.

Overall, the Patagonia R1 Full-Zip Hoody is a reliable, high-performance fleece that’s durable, eco-friendly, and built to handle diverse outdoor pursuits, from alpine adventures to casual hikes. Sure, it's an investment, but one that will pay off from the moment you slip it on.

Read our full review here

The Keela Skye Pro Fleece is a versatile mid-layer designed to provide reliable warmth and weather resistance for outdoor activities, without breaking the bank. Made from a durable, wind-resistant fleece, it’s built to withstand tough conditions, making it ideal for hikers and climbers who face blustery weather.

The fabric is slightly heavier than typical fleeces, offering extra insulation and durability, while maintaining pretty decent breathability to prevent overheating during active use.

A key feature of the Skye Pro is the high collar and adjustable cuffs, which help retain warmth, while the full-length front zipper provides adjustable ventilation. With its roomier fit than other more technical fleeces, the Skye Pro can be comfortably layered over a couple of base layers, or under a shell.

The Skye Pro’s design balances functionality with comfort, making it a reliable option for those who need a resilient fleece that can handle both the trail and the crag.

Though it lacks the lightweight feel of other technical fleeces, the Skye Pro’s focus on warmth and durability makes it ideal for harsher environments. Its affordable price and hard-wearing construction offer excellent value for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a tough, reliable fleece for varied conditions.

Read our full review here.

The North Face Women's Stormgap Power Grid Jacket is a technical mid-layer designed with sustainability and high-performance in mind.

The Power Grid fleece fabric enhances moisture management and insulation by trapping warmth in its gridded structure while still allowing airflow, making it suitable for high-intensity activities in cooler climates. We've been using it for the last six months and it's proved excellent at moisture wicking while going uphill.

This jacket’s lightweight, stretchable fabric offers flexibility, fitting comfortably over a base layer without restricting movement. The tailored fit also layers well and its sleek, minimalist design includes zippered pockets for secure storage and elastic cuffs to keep warmth in.

While this fleece is highly efficient at balancing warmth with breathability, it definitely sits on the lightweight end of things, so may not provide full wind protection. Layering it under a shell, or in super cold weather, another fleece, is a great option.

Still, for those seeking a sustainable, high-performing mid-layer that's ideal for the summer months, the Stormgap Power Grid Jacket offers an impressive combination of eco-friendly construction, comfort, and technical functionality.

Overall, it's a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts committed to both performance and sustainability. We just wish it came in a larger range of colours.

We'll admit it... we've been living in this one around the house and about town, as well as using it on the trail, too.

As you can see, the Bolster fleece from Cornish brand Finesterre is inspired by classic '80s and '90s fleece designs, and features bold colour-blocking in navy, oatmeal, and olive, giving it a timeless aesthetic that transitions effortlessly from sporty to casual. It's the sort of thing that looks good on everyone - difficult to achieve from a fleece for the most part.

Made from 100% recycled polyester, this fleece supports Finisterre’s commitment to minimising environmental impact. By repurposing plastic waste, it reduces demand for virgin materials and diverts plastic from landfills - and the sea.

The Bolster’s recycled fabric doesn’t compromise on warmth or comfort, providing a soft, cosy feel that’s perfect for layering or wearing alone on milder days.

The jacket’s full-zip design offers versatility and easy temperature control, while sherpa fleece hand pockets add practicality and secure storage for essentials. Elasticated cuffs and a high collar help retain warmth, while the relaxed fit nods to its retro inspiration, creating a laid-back silhouette that’s stylish and comfortable. The chest zip is a great place to store car keys.

Though the Bolster may lack technical features for more extreme outdoor pursuits, it excels in everyday wear and light hikes, as well as being a fabulously cosy layer for the campsite.

Its retro look combined with sustainable credentials make it a standout option for those who appreciate both vintage style and eco-friendly choices. In the Women’s Recycled Bolster Full Zip Fleece, Finisterre has crafted a warm, fashionable layer that honours the past while considering the future.

The Salomon Chroma Fleece Jacket blends super-soft, functional warmth with sleek, modern styling, making it a versatile choice for outdoor enthusiasts, both hardcore and otherwise.

Designed with Salomon's focus on performance, the Chroma fleece features a more minimalist look than others, combining classic fleece insulation with a fit that easily transitions from mountain trails to urban environments. Wear it with hiking trousers, wear it with jeans, wear it with pleasure.

Made from recycled polyester, the Chroma reflects Salomon’s commitment to sustainability, helping to reduce environmental impact by repurposing plastic waste. The fleece fabric provides an excellent balance of warmth and breathability, making it an ideal mid-layer for cooler days or an outer layer during milder weather - at 300g it's the perfect definition of a mid-weight mid-layer.

Key features include a full-zip design for quick temperature adjustments and a high collar that adds extra warmth around the neck.

Zippered hand pockets, which join up in a pouch across the front, provide secure storage for reasonably large essentials, while a drawstring on the hem will keep warmth in where needs be.

With its understated design, the Chroma is a versatile addition to any wardrobe, perfect for both outdoor excursions and daily wear.

Laren is 5'8" and wears a UK size 10. The fleece size she tested from Salomon was a size small.

The Mountain Equipment Women's Durian Hooded Jacket is a high-performance, technical fleece designed for serious outdoor enthusiasts who need warmth, durability, and functionality all rolled into one.

Built with Polartec Power StretchPro fabric, this jacket provides exceptional flexibility and resilience, making it ideal for demanding activities like climbing, trekking, and alpine pursuits.

The four-way stretch fabric ensures a full range of motion, allowing you to move freely and comfortably in any environment. It's the most durable feeling fleece we have on test.

The Durian’s close-fitting, athletic cut is tailored to layer smoothly under outer shells while also serving as a standalone layer in milder weather. Its snug hood provides extra insulation and fits comfortably under a helmet, making it a practical choice for high-output activities in variable conditions.

Thumb loops keep the sleeves in place and add extra hand warmth, while two hand pockets and a chest pocket offer secure storage for essentials.

Mountain Equipment has prioritised technical performance in every aspect of this jacket’s design. It's both reasonably warm while staying highly breathable, quickly wicking away moisture to keep you dry during intense activity. Its durable, abrasion-resistant outer surface withstands rugged use, while the soft, grid-patterned inner layer provides comfortable level of insulation.

With its exceptional stretch, thermal efficiency, and layering compatibility, the Durian Hooded Jacket is ideal for those looking for a versatile and reliable technical fleece that can handle the demands of extreme outdoor environments.

This jacket is built for performance, catering to adventurers who won’t compromise on functionality or quality. And yes, it runs on the very slightly smaller side in comparison to other fleeces out there, so if you're between sizes like us, go up.

The Passenger Maren 1/2 Zip Recycled Sherpa Fleece stands out as a cosy, eco-friendly choice for outdoor lovers who value sustainability. Made from 100% recycled polyester, the fleece offers a soft Sherpa texture that provides ample warmth while making a positive environmental impact.

Passenger Clothing prioritises sustainable materials, using post-consumer plastic waste to make 100% of this fleece, therefore reducing landfill use and lowering resource consumption. Win, win.

The Maren Fleece’s design also balances comfort with practicality. Its (very) relaxed fit layers easily over t-shirts or under larger jackets, and the half-zip style allows for temperature control, making it versatile for both chilly hikes and casual outings.

The burnt orange colour adds a vibrant, earthy touch, aligning well with the brand's outdoors-inspired aesthetic, but the arctic colour scheme is equally great too. Definitely size down if you're after a cosier fit.

Beyond recycled materials, Passenger Clothing’s commitment to sustainability extends to packaging, which is fully biodegradable and plastic-free. The company also supports reforestation efforts by planting a tree for every order, further reducing its carbon footprint.

One potential drawback is that Sherpa fleece can trap moisture in wet conditions, so this fleece is best for dry days or as a mid-layer under a waterproof jacket. However, its warmth, comfort, and sustainable credentials make it a solid choice for eco-conscious consumers.

Overall, the Maren 1/2 Zip Recycled Sherpa Fleece combines style, comfort, and environmental responsibility, making it a great pick for those who want to stay warm and cozy while reducing their environmental impact.

Beth is 5'7" (170cm) and wears a UK 10. The fleece size she tested was a small.

Ahhh, the dead bird logo. It's sometimes hard to tell with Arc'teryx how value much the premium branding is really adding, but in the case of the Kyanite Hoody, it just about lives up to its £180 ($200) price tag.

This is a premium, high-performance fleece designed for those who demand the best in technical layering. Made with a combination of stretchy, breathable materials, including the brand's proprietary Torrent fleece, this hoody provides excellent warmth, moisture-wicking capabilities, and flexibility, making it ideal for everything from hiking to technical alpine adventures.

Its smooth outer surface ensures durability and good wind protection, while the brushed interior traps heat and enhances comfort against the skin. Great for layering straight over a sports bra if needed.

The Kyanite Hoody features a slim, athletic fit that’s designed to layer seamlessly under outer shells or be worn on its own for a lightweight, insulating mid-layer. The ergonomic hood offers added warmth and protection without restricting visibility or movement (and can fit over a helmet), while the full-length front zipper allows for quick ventilation when you need to adjust to changing temperatures.

This fleece comes equipped with two hand pockets for storage and thumb loops to keep the sleeves in place, adding to its functionality and comfort. However, it's important to note that the Kyanite Hoody comes at a premium price point, which may put it out of the running for those on a smaller budget.

That said, the high-quality materials, advanced design, and durability make it an investment for outdoor enthusiasts who need reliable performance in demanding conditions.

Overall, the Arc'teryx Kyanite Hoody delivers exceptional comfort, warmth, and versatility, making it a top-tier choice for anyone looking for a technical, snazzy outdoor fleece.

The high price reflects its premium construction and features, but it’s well-suited for those who prioritise top-notch quality, and a little bit of logo-flaunting too.

The Craghoppers Oxlip Jacket is all about vintage-inspired style in an eco-friendly design, ideal for those who want functionality with flair. Made from recycled materials in collaboration with the National Trust, the Oxlip jacket reflects Craghoppers’ commitment to sustainability by using polyester derived from post-consumer plastic waste, reducing its environmental impact without sacrificing comfort or quality.

The jacket’s soft, high-pile fleece fabric delivers excellent warmth, perfect for layering on cooler days or wearing as a stand-alone piece in milder conditions. Its retro clay orange colour (also available in navy) and relaxed, outdoorsy aesthetic make it a versatile option for both the trail and everyday wear. With a high collar for added insulation and two hand pockets for convenient storage, the Oxlip offers both practicality and style.

It’s worth noting two things about this jacket before purchase. Firstly is that the Oxlip Jacket runs small, so consider sizing up for a more comfortable fit, especially if you plan to layer underneath. The second is that the whole thing uses poppers rather than any sort of zip - ideal for warmer days where ventilation is key, but not so great for technical winter hiking.

While the Oxlip Jacket may not have technical features for extreme weather, its sustainable materials, stylish design, and cosy warmth make it a standout choice for eco-conscious adventurers seeking a fashionable, functional layer. For those who appreciate a snug, retro-inspired fleece that’s mindful of its environmental footprint, the Oxlip Jacket is a solid pick.

Katy is 5"2 and wears a UK size 6-8. The fleece size she tested here was a size 8.

Artilect are a highly performance driven company, specialising in lightweight and merino fabrics. And yes, before you ask, this is completely reflected in the price of The Artilect Women’s Quandary Peak Hoodie, which RRPs for £190 ($230).

So what do you get for splashing all that cash? Well, a cutting-edge, technical mid-layer designed for high-performance outdoor adventures, of course.

Made from Nuyarn Merino wool (a wool spun differently to increase durability), this hoodie offers an exceptional balance of warmth, breathability, and moisture-wicking properties, making it perfect for active pursuits in varied conditions, including extreme damp and extreme cold.

We tested it during a couple of hikes from a bothy over a weekend, and it stood up very well to being layered, and stayed warm even when wet.

The Quandary features a streamlined, athletic fit that allows for maximum mobility, making it ideal for climbing, hiking, and skiing. Its lightweight design provides insulation without the bulk, allowing it to easily layer under outer shells or be worn solo during moderate temperatures.

Although we found it runs slightly on the larger size, the hoodie’s overall ergonomic fit, along with the adjustable, fitted hood, provides extra warmth and wind protection.

Artilect has incorporated thoughtful details like flatlock seams to reduce chafing, along with a zippered arm pocket for secure storage of your ski pass, or perhaps your contact lenses. The natural odour-resistance of the merino wool ensures that you stay fresh even during multi-day trips or intense activities - something we really loved about it during testing.

With its performance-oriented design and high-tech, natural fabric, the Quandary Peak Hoodie excels in providing both warmth and breathability in demanding environments.

Whether you’re scaling peaks or exploring trails, this hoodie offers the technical features and comfort required for any adventure. Yes, it's incredibly expensive as a purchase, but it'll last years, and is made from one of the best fabrics that money can buy.

The Bamboo Clothing 73 Zero Active Tech Fleece gets a shout out on this list for the innovative use of bamboo fabric, offering a sustainable and slightly technical fleece perfect for a wide range outdoor activities.

Crafted from a blend of bamboo and recycled polyester, this fleece combines the natural benefits of bamboo, such as moisture-wicking, breathability, and softness, with the durability and stretch of polyester.

Bamboo fibres are inherently antibacterial, keeping you fresh even during long, active days outdoors. Our tester has been taking it on winter runs, where it keeps her warm without overheating or drowning in sweat. The full coverage when wearing leggings is also a bonus.

One of the key features of this fleece is its full recyclability. The 73 Zero Active Tech Fleece is designed with the environment in mind, ensuring that it can be fully recycled at the end of its life cycle, contributing to a circular economy and reducing waste.

This eco-conscious approach makes it an ideal choice for environmentally aware adventurers who want to reduce their impact without compromising on performance.

The fleece’s lightweight, stretchy fabric provides excellent insulation without overheating, making it perfect for layering in cooler conditions or wearing alone in milder weather. The Agate Blue colour adds a stylish touch to the technical design, while the fleece offers practical features like a zippered front for ventilation and hand pockets for storage.

While the fleece may come at a slightly higher price point for a less than technical fleece, its unique bamboo material, full recyclability, and versatile performance make it an excellent investment for those seeking both eco-friendly and functional outdoor gear.

Caitlin is 5'6" tall and wears a UK 12. The fleece size she tested here was a small.