Fleece is a soft napped insulating fabric made from polyester. It is typically used in jackets, hats, sweaters, sweatpants, gym clothes, hoodies, pajamas, and blankets, as well as high-performance outdoor clothing. Fleece is known for being lightweight, warm, and soft, and it has some of the good qualities of wool. It is categorized by weight in grams per square meter and comes in different thicknesses, such as micro, 100, 200, and 300, with 300 being the thickest. Fleece is not windproof and does not absorb moisture, but it readily generates static electricity and is susceptible to damage from high-temperature washing, tumble drying, or ironing under unusual conditions. It is also prone to pilling, especially lower-quality polyester fleece material.
Fleece is a synthetic insulating fabric typically made from a type of polyester called polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or other synthetic fibers. It is comfortable due to its lightweight and anti-perspiration qualities, and it allows moisture to evaporate while blocking humidity from the outside. Fleece typically only uses synthetic fibers, making it a vegan alternative to wool, and it is commonly used for sportswear and winter clothes. However, fleece is made from non-renewable resources and needs an extra chemical coating to make it windproof or water-resistant, which is not great for the environment.
Typically, fleece is made from polyester, and fine polyester fibers are woven into a light fabric and then brushed to result in a thick fabric. It can also be made from recycled plastics such as plastic water bottles, giving it an eco-friendly edge while being inexpensive. Fleece is incredibly useful for keeping warm, particularly while being active, and it is moisture-resistant, making it ideal for extreme weather conditions or sportswear. Fleece has been used for a wide range of products, from ear-warmers for babies to underwear for astronauts, due to its versatility and warmth.
Fleece resists water due to the plastic content in polyester, and it dries faster than clothes made of natural fibers after washing. It creates room for air pockets that hold body heat inside the jacket, making it warm and cozy.
In summary, fleece is a synthetic insulating fabric made from polyester, known for its lightweight, warmth, and softness. It is commonly used in various clothing and outdoor gear, but it has some environmental considerations due to its non-renewable resources and chemical coatings.
