Most fleeces are pretty much the same, standard Polartec 200 or
similar jackets with a collar, a full-length zip and a couple of
pockets. To be honest, there isn't much difference between them.
The exceptions are technical fleeces. Designed specifically for
mountain use, they should show a fleecy finger to fashion
considerations and instead concentrate on practical cut, effective
material and useful features.
These are OUTDOORSmagic's top tips for buying a technical
fleece:
1. Cut should be snug to minimise billowing but allow you
to reach high above your head without being restrictive or pulling up
the bottom of the jacket up. Waists and hems should be elasticated
for a close fit.
2. The material should be at least wind-resistant to allow
for use without a shell jacket in milder conditions. If you're
climbing in extreme cold, the absolute insulation value becomes more
significant
3. Breathability and wicking should be as effective as
possible.
4. If the fleece is going to be used in conjunction with a
jacket with pit zips, matching zips on the fleece will optimise
venting
5. Hoods are a matter of personal choice, we like them
because they remove the need to carry a spare hat, and make losing it
impossible, but if fitted they should go under a climbing helmet
easily, be snug and adjustable and drawcords and tabs should be
anchored to prevent self-whipping in windy conditions.
6. Pockets should be sited to be accessible when using a
harness or a rucksack belt.
7. No loose cords which could tangle with gear or abseil /
belay devices
8. Reinforcement in areas of high wear such as shoulders,
forearms and cord tunnels is desirable
9. Collars should be high enough to protect the neck from
cold and fasten snugly
10. Zip pulls should be tagged for easy use with gloved and
cold hands
