Fleece vs. Polar Fleece: What’s the Real Difference?

In the world of cold-weather clothing and cozy blankets, fleece and polar fleece are terms that often come up. They are both soft, warm, and widely used in jackets, hoodies, throws, and outdoor gear. But are they the same? Is polar fleece just a marketing term, or is it fundamentally different from regular fleece?

What Is Fleece?
Fleece is a general term used to describe a synthetic fabric made from polyester fibers. It is known for its soft, brushed texture that mimics the insulating properties of wool while being lighter, faster-drying, and often more affordable.

Originally developed as a wool alternative, fleece became popular for its lightweight warmth, moisture-wicking ability, and breathability. It is commonly used in activewear, loungewear, blankets, and cold-weather accessories.

Key Characteristics of Fleece:
Made primarily from polyester
Soft and warm with a brushed surface
Lightweight and comfortable
Dries quickly and insulates well even when damp
Resistant to shrinking and wrinkling
Often used in mid-layers or light outerwear
Fleece comes in various weights and finishes. Not all fleece is created equal—some are thin and stretchy, while others are dense and insulating.

What Is Polar Fleece Fabric?
Polar fleece is actually a specific type of fleece, developed by Malden Mills (now Polartec®) in the late 1970s. The name “polar fleece” was coined to distinguish this innovative, high-performance fabric from other synthetic fleeces on the market.

Polar fleece is engineered with a double-sided brushed finish, meaning both the outer and inner surfaces are soft and fuzzy. This enhances insulation and gives it a distinctive plush feel. It also comes in different thicknesses or "weights," commonly measured in grams per square meter (gsm), such as 100, 200, or 300.

Key Characteristics of Polar Fleece:
A premium fleece fabric with a double-sided nap
Designed to retain warmth while remaining breathable
More insulating than standard fleece
Comes in multiple thicknesses for different applications
Less prone to pilling when high quality
Often used in performance gear and technical apparel
Polar fleece is often considered the gold standard for fleece materials in outdoor and winter apparel.

How Are They Different?
While polar fleece falls under the broader category of fleece, there are several key differences in terms of construction, performance, and intended use.

1. Fabric Density and Warmth
Polar fleece is usually denser and thicker than basic fleece. It's designed to provide better insulation in cold weather conditions. Basic fleece may be lighter and less structured, suitable for layering or indoor garments.

2. Texture and Finish
Polar fleece typically has a double-sided brushed finish, which makes it plusher and warmer. Standard fleece may only be brushed on one side or may feel less refined in texture.

3. Durability and Performance
Higher-grade polar fleece is engineered for outdoor use and tends to resist pilling, stretching, and wear better than lower-cost fleeces. It also maintains its insulation properties after repeated washes. Standard fleece can vary significantly in quality, especially among low-cost garments.

4. Moisture Management
Both fabrics wick moisture away from the skin, but polar fleece generally performs better in activewear or cold-weather layering systems because it balances warmth with breathability. It can release moisture without trapping sweat inside.

5. Weight Options
Polar fleece is often available in clearly defined weights (like 100, 200, 300 gsm), allowing users to choose based on climate or activity. Basic fleece may not be labeled as clearly and might offer less performance consistency.

When to Choose Each Type
Understanding your end-use can help determine which type of fleece fabric is better suited for your needs.

Choose Basic Fleece When:
You want lightweight warmth for indoor wear
Cost is a priority, such as in mass-produced blankets or casual wear
The garment doesn’t need to endure harsh weather or frequent washing
You’re making loungewear, pet bedding, or accessories for mild climates

Choose Polar Fleece When:
You need reliable insulation for cold or outdoor environments
The garment is for layering under shells or jackets
Durability and long-term wear are important
You're creating gear for hiking, skiing, or mountaineering
Moisture-wicking performance and breathability are essential

While all polar fleece is fleece, not all fleece is polar fleece. Fleece is a broad category of synthetic fabric known for its softness and warmth, while polar fleece is a specialized, high-performance variant that offers enhanced insulation, durability, and comfort.

Whether you’re a manufacturer choosing fabric for a new product line, or a consumer looking for the most comfortable and reliable winter clothing, understanding these differences will help you make smarter decisions.