Polartec® Fleece Series is the original synthetic fleece, setting the industry standard for warmth without weight, high breathability, and long-lasting durability. Used for everything from high-quality outdoor garments and gear to iconic fashion attire, Polartec® Fleece provides soft comfort with fast-drying, easy to care for convenience, making it ideal for cold-weather outdoor activities.

In 1981, Polartec® revolutionized cold-weather gear by inventing the first polar synthetic fleece, offering a lighter, warmer, and more breathable alternative to traditional wool, called Polarfleece. Because Polartec® Fleece set a new paradigm for outdoor wear, Time magazine named it "One of the most important inventions of the 20th century".

Polartec® Fleece is a knitted material, which is transformed into soft, furry pile through a series of proprietary, specialized surface-finishing techniques. The raised pile entraps body warmth in its air spaces to provide exceptional warmth without weight.

Most of Polartec® Fleece is made of post-consumer recycled polyester from recycled water bottles. Polartec was the first to bring a recycled fleece to market in the early 90s and the first Polartec® fleece made with recycled content was Soda-Bottle Green, to honor the color of the discarded product. Over the years we have significantly increased our use of recycled and other sustainable materials, and now have over 200 fabric styles that are made from more than 50% PCR plastic bottles.

The special knit construction and raised pile traps air in the fibers to provide exceptionally long-term warmth without the weight, without overheating and without the bulk.

Polartec® Fleece is engineered to provide an incredibly soft, smooth, and velvety touch experience.

Polartec® pioneered synthetic fleece technology, and its Polartec® Fleece fabrics are known for their exceptional warmth-to-weight ratios, in addition to their breathability, and durability. Many have tried to replicate this, but still today, Polartec® remains the benchmark for performance fleece.

Polartec® Fleece Series comes in four weights to suit different insulation needs: • Micro Fleece – Ultra-lightweight for mild conditions or layering. It is finished with Shed Less Technology, to reduce micro fiber fragments shedding up to 85% on average during home laundering*. • 100 Fleece – Lightweight warmth, it’s perfect as a breathable mid-layer. • 200 Fleece – Mid-weight fleece that is ideal for versatile cold-weather protection. Diverse styles are finished with Shed Less Technology, to reduce micro fiber fragments shedding up to 85% on average during home laundering*. • 300 Fleece – Heavyweight fleece that provides maximum insulation for extreme cold. *According to AATCC 212-2021, when compared to the base line fabric.

Polartec® Fleece is available in four different weights to add warmth without the bulk to jackets, mid-layers, and hybrid performance wear. It is also used by fashion brands for its soft hand and aesthetic appeal. As a result Polartec® Fleece is ideal for outdoor activities and to satisfy the latest fashion trends.

Yes! Polartec® Fleece is highly breathable, keeping you dry and comfortable by allowing excess heat and moisture to escape.

Yes. The fast-drying properties of Polartec® Fleece prevent moisture buildup, ensuring consistent warmth even in damp conditions.

Polartec® Fleece is highly durable, designed to withstand wear and tear from outdoor adventures and frequent washing, without losing its insulating properties.

Yes! Polartec® Fleece is designed to be layered, and works well with both base layers and outer shells to provide for adaptable warmth in different conditions.

For best results, wash garments and gear made from Polartec® Fleece in cold water with mild detergent and avoid fabric softeners. Tumble dry on low or hang dry, and be sure to follow the garment’s care instructions.

If you're interested in using Polartec® Fleece for your designs or collections, please fill out the form below, and our team will contact you with more details. Looking for inspiration for your designs? Check out Products and our Made To Partner stories.