Wool vs. Fleece: Everything You Need To Know

When it comes to fabrics that’ll keep you warm and toasty in the winter, you really can’t go wrong with either wool or fleece. And while both fabrics have similar properties, there are a few key differences between the two that can help you decide which fabric you want to spring for when looking for clothing, like socks, hats, jackets, sweaters, sweatshirts, and anything else you might wear when the temperatures dip below freezing. From breathability and durability to price points and the weight of each fabric, here’s everything you need to know about wool and fleece. 

What Is Wool?

Wool is a type of natural fabric that is typically worn in the wintertime or in the colder months. Some common garments that are made of wool include sweaters, overcoats, jackets, hats, scarves, gloves, socks, and trousers. Although sheep’s wool is commonly used to make wool items, wool can also come from other animals, like goats or llamas. 

What Is Fleece?

Fleece is another kind of fabric that is typically worn in the winter or in the colder months. Common items of clothing made of fleece include jackets, sweaters, sweatshirts, sweatpants, hats, mittens or gloves, and other garments that are designed to keep you warm. Fleece is usually made of polyester, and there are many different types of fleece fabric, including cotton or cotton-blended fleece, microfleece, sherpa fleece, Lycra spandex fleece, and more.

What Are the Main Differences Between Wool and Fleece?

There is one huge difference between wool and fleece, and a few minor differences that may help you decide which fabric you prefer. The main difference between wool and fleece is that wool is a natural fabric, while fleece is a synthetic fabric made in a factory to imitate wool. Both materials will keep you warm in the winter, but the fact that one is natural and one is synthetic comes with a slew of small differences between the two when it comes to things like weight, performance, breathability, durability, comfortability, and more.

As far as durability goes, fleece slightly outperforms wool. While wool can be very durable if you properly care for it, fleece doesn’t need as careful attention to taking care of it, as it’s designed to last for long-term wear. 

Wool is typically a little more breathable than fleece because it is a natural fabric; however, fleece is also considered pretty breathable, depending on the type of fleece. For example, microfleece is way more breathable than sherpa fleece, which can feel stuffy depending on the garment you’re wearing.

Another minor difference between wool and fleece is the weight of the fabric – wool is typically heavier than fleece, which is considered a lightweight fabric. Additionally, wool can sometimes be scratchy or itchy, while fleece is usually soft and comfortable. Of course, it depends on the brand, the item of clothing, etc., but the price points of wool and fleece items differ slightly, as wool is generally more expensive than fleece. 

Essential Wool Items Every Man Should Own

Every man should own a wool overcoat – it’s just a straight-up fact. For an overcoat that’ll go with everything you own and keep you warm throughout the winter, try the J. Crew Ludlow Topcoat, which comes in both Toffee and Heather Steele and fits true-to-size. Wear it over your best suit, a smart casual winter outfit like chinos and a sweater, or throw it on over joggers and a sweatshirt to instantly elevate your casual, run-to-the-corner-store look.

Another essential wool item that every man should own is a classic wool sweater that you can wear to a holiday party, to dinner, or to the office on a casual Friday. Try the L.L. Bean Men’s Heritage Sweater for a cold-weather staple that’ll take you from a Christmas brunch with your family straight to happy hour with your friends. Finally, you shouldn’t overlook wool accessories, like the Bombas Men’s Merino Wool Calf Socks, which come in a four-pack and will keep your feet warm all winter long. 

Essential Fleece Items Every Man Should Own

When it comes to fleece garments, a zip-up fleece jacket is a no-brainer and a must-have in every man’s closet during the colder months. Try the North Face Men’s Ridge Fleece ¼ Zip Pullover, which is light, warm, and durable and comes in four different colors. If you’re looking for a fleece jacket with a fresh twist, try the North Face Men’s Gordon Lyons Full Zip, which has the silhouette of a classic bomber jacket but the look of a fleece jacket. 

There’s no better time to invest in a pair of fleece joggers than in the colder months, and the Muir Fleece Jogger, which comes in three different colors and features a relaxed fit, sturdy construction, and plush texture, is the perfect pair of comfy sweats to lounge in. 

For the ultimate casual garment that’ll keep you warm without suffocating you, check out the L.L. Bean Men’s Fleece-Lined Flannel Shirt, which is perfect to wear when you’re pulling a Clark Griswold and decorating the entirety of your house in lights, or doing other work outside in cold weather.