Hi Vis Fleece Jackets

How Fleece Insulation Works

Polar fleece fabric is 100% polyester that's been brushed to raise the fibres and create a soft, fuzzy surface. This brushing process creates millions of tiny air pockets throughout the fabric – it's those air pockets, not the fabric itself, that trap your body heat and provide insulation. The brushed surface also wicks moisture away from your skin toward the outer surface where it evaporates. That's why fleece keeps you warm during active work without the overheating you'd get from a heavy winter coat.

Fleece maintains about 70-80% of its insulating properties even when damp, unlike down which loses all warmth when wet. It dries quickly too – typically within 2-3 hours at room temperature. This makes fleece ideal for UK weather where you might get caught in showers.

Weight and Warmth: Choosing the Right GSM

Microfleece (under 200gsm) feels thin and packable. It works for mild autumn weather or as a mid-layer under waterproof jackets. Maximum breathability for very active work. Midweight polar fleece (260-280gsm) provides the best balance between warmth, breathability, and flexibility – this weight suits most outdoor winter work in UK conditions where temperatures range from 0-10°C. Heavyweight fleece (over 300gsm) delivers maximum insulation for extreme cold or static outdoor roles where you're not generating much body heat through movement. Less breathable during active work.

What Fleece Can't Do

Fleece jackets aren't windproof or waterproof. Wind passes straight through the open weave of fleece fabric, so on windy days you'll need a windproof layer over your hi vis fleece jacket. Light rain will soak into fleece fabric. Fleece-lined jackets combine a windproof or shower-proof outer shell with fleece lining inside, offering weather protection that standard fleece can't provide – these work as all-in-one jackets rather than requiring separate layers.

Care and Replacement

Wash fleece lined hi vis jackets at 30-40°C maximum – hot water damages the brushed fibres and reduces insulation. Never use fabric softener, which coats the fibres and reduces breathability. Tumble dry on low heat or air dry. Anti-pill treatment prevents bobbling and matting on the fabric surface, keeping the jacket looking professional through 100+ industrial washes. Replace when the brushed surface becomes matted and compressed (losing those insulating air pockets) or when reflective tape shows significant cracking and peeling.