Polyester Fleece
Thick, insulating polyester knit with a brushed pile surface. Distinct from generic fleece by its heavier weight and use in outerwear. Popular brands include Polartec.
Score Breakdown
How long the fabric lasts with regular use
Softness, feel against skin, wearability
Air flow and ventilation
Heat retention and insulation
Ability to pull sweat away from skin
Environmental impact of production and disposal
How easy it is to wash, dry, and maintain
Best For
Excellent comfort (78) and easy care (80) for daily wear
Good warmth (82) for cold weather
Good durability (65) and comfort (78) for office wear
Detailed Use Case Scores
Pros
- ✓ Excellent warmth-to-weight ratio
- ✓ Soft and comfortable
- ✓ Quick-drying
- ✓ Retains warmth even when damp
Cons
- ✗ Pills over time
- ✗ Sheds significant microplastics
- ✗ Not wind-resistant without a shell
- ✗ Static-prone in dry conditions
Care Guide
Special Notes
• Wash inside out to reduce pilling
• Never use fabric softener
• Use a microfiber-catching wash bag to reduce microplastic shedding
Additional Care Tips
- • Machine wash cold (30°C/85°F) inside out on gentle cycle — always use a microfiber-catching bag
- • Tumble dry on low heat or air-only — high heat melts polyester and increases pilling
- • Never iron polyester fleece — it will melt, glaze, or develop shiny spots
- • Avoid fabric softener — it reduces fleece's ability to wick moisture and trap warm air
- • Use a fabric shaver every few months to remove pills and restore the plush surface
- • Store folded; polyester fleece does not wrinkle and is very low-maintenance
Cost
$$$$$
Budget-friendly
Shrinkage
Won't shrink with normal washing
Eco Rating
High environmental impact