Quarter-Zip Fleece Buying Guide

As a staple in many wardrobes, the quarter zip fleece has become a go-to choice for those seeking comfort, warmth, and style in a variety of settings. Whether you're a long-time fan of this versatile garment or simply looking to expand your collection, understanding the key features, materials, and styling options available can help you make an informed decision when selecting your next quarter zip fleece. Quarter zip fleeces are available in a wide range of styles, colours, and materials to suit various preferences and activities. Fleece is a synthetic fabric that is designed to mimic the insulating properties of wool while being lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying. It is made from polyester fibres that are brushed to create a soft, fuzzy texture that traps air and provides warmth. Fleece is also moisture-wicking, which means it draws sweat away from the skin to keep the wearer dry and comfortable. Quarter zip fleeces are a popular choice for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and skiing, as well as for casual wear in cooler weather. They can be worn as a standalone top or layered under a jacket for added warmth. Many quarter zip fleeces also feature additional details such as thumb holes, zippered pockets, and chin guards for added functionality and comfort. Whether you're seeking a reliable layer for outdoor adventures, a comfortable option for casual wear, or a stylish piece to add to your wardrobe, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to choose the perfect quarter zip fleece to suit your needs and preferences.

Quarter zip fleeces offer a range of benefits that make them a popular choice for a variety of activities and settings. Some of the key benefits include:

• Warmth — Fleece is an excellent insulator, trapping air between its fibres to provide warmth without adding bulk or weight.

• Breathability — Fleece is a breathable material that allows air to circulate and moisture to escape, helping to regulate body temperature and prevent overheating.

• Moisture-wicking — Fleece is designed to draw moisture away from the skin, keeping the wearer dry and comfortable even during physical activity.

• Lightweight — Fleece is a lightweight material that is easy to pack and carry, making it a great choice for travel or outdoor adventures.

• Quick-drying — Fleece dries quickly when wet, making it a practical choice for activities where exposure to water or sweat is likely.

• Easy care — Most fleece garments are machine washable and dry quickly, making them easy to care for and maintain.

Quarter zip fleeces are typically made from 100% polyester fleece, although some may have added spandex or elastane for stretch and mobility. The weight of the fleece can vary, with lightweight options (100-200 gsm) being ideal for mild weather or as a layering piece, and heavier weight options (300+ gsm) providing more warmth for colder temperatures. Fleece is a synthetic fabric that is made from polyester fibres that are brushed to create a soft, fuzzy texture. The brushed texture traps air and provides insulation, while the polyester material wicks moisture away from the skin to keep the wearer dry and comfortable. Fleece is also lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying, making it an ideal material for activewear and outerwear.

The construction of a quarter zip fleece typically involves several panels of fleece fabric that are sewn together to create the garment. The quarter-length zipper is usually made of plastic or metal and is sewn into the front of the garment, extending from the collar to the chest. Some quarter zip fleeces may have additional features such as zippered pockets, thumb holes, or a chin guard to prevent chafing. The quality of a quarter zip fleece can vary depending on the brand and price point. Higher-end fleece may have additional features such as reinforced seams, a more durable zipper, or a higher-quality fleece material. Lower-priced options may have a thinner, less durable fleece or a lower-quality zipper that is prone to snagging or breaking. When choosing a quarter zip fleece, it's important to consider the intended use and the level of durability and quality needed. For outdoor activities or frequent wear, a higher-end fleece with reinforced seams and a durable zipper may be worth the investment. For casual wear or occasional use, a lower-priced option may suffice.

Several types of fleece fabric are used in quarter zip fleeces, each with unique properties and benefits. Some common types of fleece include:

• Polar fleece — Polar fleece is a type of fleece designed to mimic wool's insulating properties. It is made from 100% polyester and is known for its warmth, softness, and durability. Polar fleece is often used in outerwear and activewear.

• Microfleece —  Microfleece is a lightweight, thin fleece that is ideal for mild weather or as a layering piece. It is made from finer polyester fibres than polar fleece and has a soft, smooth texture. Microfleece is often used in lightweight jackets, pullovers, and base layers.

• Sherpa fleece — Sherpa fleece is a type of fleece that has a pile on one side that resembles sheep's wool. It is thick, soft, and warm, making it a popular choice for cold-weather outerwear. Sherpa fleece is often used as a lining material in jackets and coats.

• Stretch fleece — Stretch fleece is a type of fleece that has added spandex or elastane for stretch and mobility. It is ideal for activewear and outdoor pursuits where freedom of movement is important. Stretch fleece is often used in athletic jackets, pullovers, and base layers.

• Tech fleece — Tech fleece is a type of fleece that is designed for high-performance activewear. It is typically made from a blend of polyester and spandex and has a smooth, sleek surface that is designed to wick moisture and provide a full range of motion. Tech fleece is often used in athletic jackets and hoodies.

Quarter zip fleeces are an excellent layering piece that can be worn in a variety of ways to suit different weather conditions and style preferences. Some popular ways to layer with a quarter-zip fleece include:

• Under a jacket — A quarter zip fleece can be layered under a jacket or coat for added warmth in colder weather. Choose a lightweight fleece for a streamlined look, or a thicker fleece for maximum insulation.

• Over a base layer —  A quarter zip fleece can be worn over a base layer such as a long-sleeve t-shirt or thermal top for added warmth and insulation. This is a great option for outdoor activities in colder weather.

• With a vest — A quarter zip fleece can be worn under a vest for added warmth and style. Choose a fleece in a contrasting colour to the vest for a bold look, or match the colours for a more streamlined aesthetic.

• With a scarf — A scarf can be worn over a quarter zip fleece for added warmth and style. Choose a scarf in a complementary colour or pattern to the fleece for a cohesive look.

The North Face is a popular outdoor brand that offers a range of quarter-zip fleece options for men and women. The North Face quarter zip fleece mens and women's options are designed for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and skiing, as well as for casual wear in cooler weather. One of the most popular North Face quarter zip fleece options is the Glacier 1/4 Zip, which is available in both mens and womens sizes. The Glacier 1/4 Zip is made from Polartec Classic 100 microfleece, which is lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying. It features a quarter-length zipper, a chest pocket, and elasticated cuffs for added functionality and comfort. Another popular North Face quarter zip fleece option is the Gordon Lyons 1/4 Zip, which is available in mens sizes. The Gordon Lyons is made from a heavier-weight fleece material and features a sweater-knit exterior and a brushed fleece interior for added warmth and comfort. It also has a chest pocket and elasticated cuffs. The North Face also offers several other quarter zip fleece options, including the Canyonlands 1/4 Zip, the Borod 1/4 Zip, and the Dunraven Sherpa 1/4 Zip. These options vary in terms of weight, features, and style, but all are designed with the quality and durability that The North Face is known for.

The North Face is known for its innovative fleece technology, which is designed to provide warmth, comfort, and performance in a variety of settings. Some of the key fleece technologies used by The North Face include:

• Polartec Classic Fleece — Polartec Classic Fleece is a type of fleece that is designed to provide warmth and comfort in cold weather conditions. It is made from 100% polyester and has a soft, brushed interior that traps air and provides insulation. Polartec Classic Fleece is also lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying, making it a popular choice for outdoor activities.

• Polartec Thermal Pro Fleece — Polartec Thermal Pro Fleece is a high-performance fleece that is designed for active pursuits in cold weather. It has a unique knit construction that allows for enhanced breathability and moisture management, while still providing excellent warmth and insulation. Polartec Thermal Pro Fleece is also lightweight and quick-drying, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

• Polartec Power Stretch Fleece — Polartec Power Stretch Fleece is a type of fleece that is designed for high-intensity activities in cold weather. It has a four-way stretch construction that allows for a full range of motion, while still providing warmth and insulation. Polartec Power Stretch Fleece also has a smooth, durable exterior and a soft, brushed interior for added comfort.

   

The North Face uses these and other fleece technologies in its quarter zip fleeces and other fleece garments to provide optimal performance and comfort in a variety of settings. When choosing a North Face quarter zip fleece, consider the specific fleece technology used and how it aligns with the intended use and desired level of warmth and performance.

Men's quarter zip fleeces are designed with a focus on functionality, durability, and versatility. They often have a relaxed, boxy fit that allows for easy layering over base layers or under jackets. This relaxed fit also provides ample room for movement, making them a great choice for outdoor activities or sports. In terms of materials, men's quarter zip fleeces are typically made from 100% polyester fleece, although some may have added spandex or elastane for stretch and mobility. The weight of the fleece can vary, with lightweight options (100-200 gsm) being ideal for mild weather or as a layering piece, and heavier weight options (300+ gsm) providing more warmth for colder temperatures.

Men's quarter zip fleeces often feature additional details that enhance their functionality and durability. These may include:

• Reinforced seams — Reinforced seams provide added durability and prevent the fleece from tearing or fraying over time.

• Zippered pockets — Zippered pockets provide a secure place to store essentials like keys, wallets, or phones.

• Chin guards — Chin guards are a small piece of fabric that sits behind the zipper to prevent chafing or irritation on the chin or neck.

• Elasticated cuffs — Elasticated cuffs help to keep the sleeves in place and prevent cold air from entering.

• Drawcord hems — Drawcord hems allow the wearer to adjust the fit of the fleece at the waist, providing a customized fit and added protection from the elements

Women's quarter zip fleeces are designed with a focus on style, fit, and comfort. They often have a slimmer, more tailored fit than men's options, with a feminine silhouette flattering the figure. This tailored fit also helps to keep the fleece close to the body, providing added warmth and insulation. In terms of materials, women's quarter zip fleeces are typically made from soft, lightweight polyester fleece that is comfortable against the skin. Some options may have added spandex or elastane for stretch and mobility, allowing for a full range of motion during activities.

Women's quarter zip fleeces often feature additional details that enhance their style and functionality. These may include:

• Thumbholes — Thumbholes are small openings at the end of the sleeves that allow the wearer to pull the sleeves over their hands for added warmth and coverage.

• Ruching or gathering — Ruching or gathering at the sides or back of the fleece can provide added shaping and a more flattering fit.

• Contrasting zippers or trim — Contrasting zippers or trim can add a pop of colour or interest to the fleece, elevating its style.

• Longer lengths — Some women's quarter zip fleeces may have a longer length that provides added coverage and warmth.