When it comes to outdoor clothing, fleece jackets and down jackets are two of the most popular choices for warmth and comfort. Each has its strengths, and the choice depends on climate, activity, and personal preference. This article explores the differences between fleece and down jackets using research-based data, practical comparisons, and industry insights. If you are a buyer, retailer, or fashion brand, understanding these differences can help you make informed sourcing and purchasing decisions.
Introduction to Fleece and Down Jackets
Fleece jackets are made from synthetic fibers such as polyester, designed to mimic the insulating properties of wool while being lightweight and breathable.
Down jackets, on the other hand, are insulated with goose or duck down (the fine layer of feathers beneath the outer feathers), prized for its superior warmth-to-weight ratio.
Both are staples in outdoor apparel, but they perform differently depending on conditions.
Our company provides various types of wool jackets, synthetic Fleece jacket and down jackets. You can ask us for the product catalog. We also provide customized services.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Fleece Jacket | Down Jacket |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Synthetic (polyester) | Natural goose/duck down (sometimes mixed with feathers) |
| Warmth | Moderate warmth | High warmth, excellent insulation |
| Breathability | Very high | Moderate |
| Weight | Light to medium | Ultra-light for warmth provided |
| Moisture Resistance | Retains warmth even when wet | Loses insulation when wet (unless treated) |
| Durability | Long-lasting, resistant to wear | Requires more care, sensitive to moisture |
| Price Range | Generally affordable | More expensive due to natural materials |
| Best Use | Active sports, layering | Cold, dry climates, casual wear |
Down jackets are generally warmer than polyester fleece jackets, but they also tend to be more expensive. Both fleece and down jackets come in a wide variety of styles and designs. Down jackets tend to have a more fluffy, voluminous shape, while fleece jackets offer a more streamlined silhouette, making them suitable for a wider range of occasions. Our factory offers a wide variety of down and fleece jackets, so please contact us with your inquiries.
Warmth and Insulation Performance
One of the main considerations is warmth. According to outdoor apparel research from the International Down and Feather Bureau (IDFB, 2023), down jackets outperform fleece in insulation efficiency.
Research Data: Thermal Insulation Comparison
| Jacket Type | CLO Value (Insulation Measurement) | Suitable Temperature Range |
|---|---|---|
| Fleece (200g/m²) | ~0.9 CLO | +5°C to +15°C |
| Midweight Down (600 fill power) | ~2.8 CLO | -5°C to +10°C |
| Heavy Down (800 fill power) | ~4.0 CLO | -20°C to 0°C |
Conclusion: Down jackets are the clear winner in extreme cold, while fleece is better for mild weather and layering.
We can provide jackets with different levels of warmth according to your needs.
Weight and Packability
Outdoor travelers often care about weight. Down jackets are lighter for the same warmth level, which is why they’re popular in mountaineering and backpacking.
| Metric | Fleece Jacket (average) | Down Jacket (average) |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 400–600g | 250–400g |
| Packed Volume | 4–6 liters | 2–4 liters |
Insight: If you need a jacket for hiking or travel where weight matters, down is the superior choice.
Our down jackets are available in light, medium and heavy weights, allowing you to cater to a wider range of consumers with different needs.
Moisture and Weather Resistance
Fleece’s synthetic fibers maintain insulation when wet, making it a reliable option in damp or humid conditions. Down, however, clumps when wet and loses insulating ability unless treated with DWR (Durable Water Repellent) technology.
| Condition | Fleece Jacket Performance | Down Jacket Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Light Rain | Good | Fair (without DWR) |
| Heavy Rain | Poor (requires outer shell) | Poor |
| Humidity | Retains warmth | Loses warmth |
| Dry Cold | Adequate | Excellent |
Takeaway: Fleece is better in wet conditions, while down excels in dry cold.
We offer synthetic Lamb Fleece jacket, Berber Fleece jackets and polar fleece jackets. We also offer natural wool overcoats.
Durability and Maintenance
Durability is another factor for consumers and retailers.
Fleece jackets: Can withstand frequent washing, abrasion, and outdoor use.
Down jackets: Require careful washing and storage to maintain loft.
| Durability Factor | Fleece | Down |
|---|---|---|
| Washing | Easy, machine washable | Special care needed |
| Longevity | 5–7 years | 4–6 years (if maintained well) |
| Wear Resistance | High | Medium |
Polyester fleece jackets are easier to clean and store, while natural wool jackets require special care. Down jackets need to maintain their loft.
Cost Comparison
According to a 2024 market report by Statista Outdoor Apparel Insights, fleece jackets are generally more affordable than down jackets due to material costs.
| Jacket Type | Average Retail Price (USD) | Market Segment |
|---|---|---|
| Fleece Jacket | $40 – $120 | Mid-range, sportswear |
| Down Jacket | $100 – $400 | Premium, outdoor gear |
Note for retailers: Fleece jackets appeal to budget-conscious buyers, while down jackets attract premium-market consumers.
Polyester fleece jackets are cheaper. Down and natural wool are more expensive. We are committed to providing you with products that offer the best value for money.
Sustainability and Environmental Factors
Sustainability is a growing concern in the fashion industry.
Fleece: Often made from recycled polyester, but microplastics remain an environmental issue.
Down: Natural and biodegradable, but ethical sourcing (RDS-certified down) is crucial.
| Sustainability Factor | Fleece | Down |
|---|---|---|
| Recyclability | High (recycled polyester available) | Natural biodegradability |
| Environmental Issue | Microplastic pollution | Animal welfare concerns |
| Certifications | GRS, OEKO-TEX | RDS, IDFL, bluesign® |
Our clothing and raw materials meet various standards, so you can buy with confidence.
Practical Use Cases
| Scenario | Best Jacket |
|---|---|
| Casual everyday wear in mild winter | Fleece |
| Office commute in very cold climate | Down |
| Hiking in wet or humid environment | Fleece |
| Mountaineering or dry alpine conditions | Down |
| Layering under a shell jacket | Fleece |
| Travel with luggage restrictions | Down |
Consumer Trends and Market Demand
According to Euromonitor International (2024), demand for fleece jackets is growing among activewear consumers, while down jackets continue to dominate luxury and outdoor travel markets.
| Region | Fleece Jacket Demand Growth | Down Jacket Demand Growth |
|---|---|---|
| North America | +8% annually | +6% annually |
| Europe | +7% annually | +5% annually |
| Asia-Pacific | +10% annually | +9% annually |
The global market is expanding for both categories, with fleece slightly leading in active lifestyle trends.
Brand Highlight: JIANGSU OVERSEAS FAREAST INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.
When choosing between fleece and down jackets, retailers and brands need reliable suppliers. JIANGSU OVERSEAS FAREAST INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD., founded in 2016, is a trusted global garment and textile manufacturer under the JIANGSU OVERSEAS GROUP CO., LTD. (JOC Group).
Why Choose Us?
Strong Production Capacity:
400+ design and technical staff
10 production lines in China with 80,000 garments per month output
Overseas factories in Myanmar, Vietnam, and Cambodia with 4,000+ employees
Total annual production capacity of 10 million garments
Quality Assurance:
Certified by BSCI and WRAP for ethical and sustainable production
Strict QC processes across design, R&D, and production
Global Market Reach:
Established partnerships across Europe, USA, and Australia
Competitive pricing with high-quality garment solutions
Fashion-Forward Designs:
In-house design and R&D centers constantly innovate with new styles
Expertise in fleece jackets, down jackets, and other outdoor apparel
Whether your business focuses on affordable fleece jackets for activewear markets or premium down jackets for luxury outdoor brands, we are your trusted partner.
Conclusion: Which Jacket Should You Choose?
If you need breathability, affordability, and durability, choose a fleece jacket.
If you want lightweight warmth in extreme cold, go for a down jacket.
For brands and retailers, offering both categories is ideal to meet diverse consumer needs. By partnering with JIANGSU OVERSEAS FAREAST INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD., you can ensure consistent quality, scalable production, and on-time delivery across global markets.
We have established four textile and apparel production bases in Cambodia, Myanmar, and Tanzania to ensure timely delivery. With design centers, sample centers, and R&D centers, we have established stable and strong partnerships with clients in Europe, the United States, Australia, and other countries and regions. We welcome you to join our ranks of satisfied customers.
