Introduction
When it comes to staying warm in the great outdoors, choosing the right fleece can make all the difference. Fleece fabric has become a go-to choice for warmth and comfort in various applications. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of fleece and compare Blizzard Fleece and Polartec Fleece. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which fleece suits your needs best.
Understanding Fleece Fabric
Fleece is a soft, warm, and highly insulating fabric known for its comfort and versatility. It is a popular textile used in a wide range of clothing and accessories, especially in cold-weather gear. Fleece is not a natural fiber like wool but is instead a synthetic or semi-synthetic fabric typically made from polyester or a blend of other fibers. Proper insulation is a game-changer in outdoor and cold-weather activities. Fleece combines warmth, comfort, breathability, and durability into a versatile fabric that suits various lifestyles and activities, without adding the bulk of natural materials like wool. Whether you’re heading into the great outdoors, staying warm during winter months, or seeking an easy-to-care-for fabric for everyday wear, fleece plays a significant role in providing the comfort and functionality you need.
Blizzard Fleece
Blizzard fleece is best known for it’s smoother and soft feel. It is also a bit denser and thicker, provide warmth while remaining lightweight and breathable. Blizzard fleece is typically made out of 100% polyester fibers and comes in a wide range of prints and solid colors. Its durability ensures that it can withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures, however blizzard fleece is more prone to pilling.
Advantages of Blizzard Fleece
Blizzard Fleece stands out for its ability to provide superior warmth while remaining lightweight and breathable. Its durability ensures that it can withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures.
Best Uses for Blizzard Fleece
Ideal for activities like hiking, camping, and skiing, Blizzard Fleece excels in cold, demanding environments. It also finds its place as versatile everyday wear for those who value warmth and comfort.
Polartec® Fleece
Polartec has a rich history and an established reputation as a quality American textile brand for performance fleece. Polartec was the first to bring a recycled fleece to market in the early 90s and is primarily made of post-consumer recycled polyester from recycled water bottles. Polartec is a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts for it’s superior warmth and hydrophobic (water repellent) without the bulk.
Benefits of Polartec Fleece
Polartec fleece encompass warmth, breathability, durability, lightweight design, versatility, eco-friendliness, easy care, comfort, and a proven track record in the outdoor industry. These advantages make Polartec fleece an excellent choice for staying warm and comfortable in cold weather and demanding outdoor environments.
Optimal Applications for Polartec Fleece
Polartec fleece’s versatility and performance characteristics make it suitable for a wide range of applications, from outdoor sports and activities to everyday wear and gear. Its ability to provide warmth, breathability, and durability makes it a go-to choice for those seeking comfort and protection in cold-weather conditions.
Head to Head: Polartec vs Blizzard Fleece
Warmth and Insulation
In the battle of warmth, both fleece types perform admirably. However, Polartec often takes the lead in extreme cold, offering better insulation.
Breathability and Moisture Management
When it comes to breathability both fleeces perform almost identically, but for moisture management, Polartec Fleece shines with its hydrophobic (water repellent) ability.
Weight and Comfort
Blizzard Fleece is the lighter option, offering excellent warmth-to-weight ratio. Polartec Fleece is slightly heavier but provides unparalleled insulation and warmth.
Durability and Longevity
Both fleeces are known for their durability, but Polartec Fleece has a slight edge in longevity, making it a trusted companion for the long haul.
Conclusion: Choosing The Right Fleece
The key distinctions between Blizzard Fleece and Polartec Fleece, it’s clear that each has its strengths. They both are warm, comfortable and soft. Blizzard Fleece is a little thinner and lighter, whereas Polartec is better for extreme cold along with it’s water repelling capabilities. The optimal choice, whether it’s Blizzard or Polartec, ultimately depends on the activity and preferences of the individual, as well as the demands of the activities they plan to undertake in colder climates.
FAQ: Fleece Questions Answered
Q1: Can Polartec or Blizzard Fleece Be Machine Washed?
Yes, both can be machine wash in cold to warm water and tumble dry on low. Avoid the use of bleach and fabric softeners.
Q2: Is one of them more eco-friendly?
Polartec is the leader in eco-friendly fleece as it is primarily made of post-consumer recycled water bottles
Q3: Do they required any special care?
For most fleece fabrics: Avoid bleach and fabric softener when washing. Do NOT iron or have dry cleaned.
Q4: Is either fleece waterproof?
Neither are waterproof, however Polartec hydrophobic properties will repel water.
Q5: Which fleece is more budget-friendly?
Blizzard Fleece is often more budget-friendly, but Polartec Fleece’s durability can provide long-term value.