From Cupertino to the Carpathians, this cozy outdoor material is a favorite for outerwear among citygoers and adventurers alike.
Fleece dates back pretty much as far as human civilization does. Originally, it was the name applied to wool taken from sheep, goats and other fluffy ungulates. But in the late 1970s, Malden Mills (which would become Polartec), working with Patagonia, developed the first synthetic fleece, bringing it to market in 1981.
Since then, this material has taken the fashion and outdoor world by storm, becoming practically ubiquitous among adventurers and tech bros alike.
Despite (or perhaps because of) its widespread popularity, there’s still plenty of continued innovation and development surrounding this material. Check out the best of what’s come out just this year below:
Merz b. Schwanen Authentic Fleece Classic Fit Sweatshirt in Espresso
Merz b. Schwanen introduces a rich brown Espresso color to its classic crewneck sweatshirt line. Built from 12.7-ounce, 100-percent cotton loopback fleece, the hefty fabric will hold its shape well over time. This vintage-faithful build includes wide elastic ribbing on the cuffs and waist, a genuine ribbed triangle on the neckline and a boxy fit.
- Sean Tirman & Hayley Helms / Gear Patrol