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Fashion can be cyclical, but some pieces stand the test of time rather than fall in and out of favor. Take the fleece jacket, for instance.

Fleece jackets are having a moment right now, both in terms of seasonality (hey, winter’s starting to ramp up) as well as looks and popularity. Maybe it’s got something to do with all things ‘80s and ‘90s coming back into play, but when you want an alternative to one of the best sherpa jackets, a fleece jacket is the way to go. 

RELATED: In Need of Some New Winter Gear? We’ve Got You Covered

Fleece finds its origins in the chilly Northeast, created as another alternative to wool while providing strong, durable and insulating texture. There are more textured types of fleece, like sherpa fleece, and more smooth options, like polar fleece. Either one makes a great barrier against chilly winter winds when layered up properly, be it over a thermal shirt or even one of the best denim shirts for some added warmth. And the best fleece jackets are highly stylish, of course.

Below, you'll find 10 of our top picks for cozy seasonal layering in the form of — you guessed it — fleece jackets.

Laidback winter lounging just got even cozier, thanks to this wear-anywhere fleece jacket featuring a two-way zipper. The unique zipper design allows you to customize your fit and layering, while the rich Quartzite color is cool-as-can-be when worn with everything from heather grey joggers to dark blue jeans. 

Fleece takes many forms these days, including this more rugged shirt jacket you can layer over your favorite henley or flannel shirt. Made with large buttons for easy on and off access, this fleece “shacket” also comes in a range of color options to suit every palette. Oh, and did we mention it’s highly affordable? Because it sure is.

Patagonia is perhaps one of the first brands that comes to mind when thinking of retro styles like the fleece jacket, right? That’s where this fittingly named fleece enters the equation (and your wardrobe). It’s a callback to past classic styles from the brand, and is even designed to wick moisture so you don’t overheat. 

Sporty appeal has long been part of wearing a classic fleece jacket, and the sportswear purveyors at Original Penguin know this all too well. Here, they’ve used bold stripes and a slim fit to turn the fleece into the kind of jacket fit for wearing on the slopes as a light layer or behind the wheel on a road trip. 

You can trust Canada Goose to come up with the most dependable gear for the toughest conditions on the planet, so it only makes sense that they’ve overbuilt this fleece jacket in all the right ways. From the reinforced elbow patches to the jersey knit lining, this jacket is designed to keep you warm and comfortable just about anywhere. 

Leave it to the retro style masters at Tommy Hilfiger to deliver a classic fleece jacket with colorblocked design for added style points. Use the stand-up collar and full-zip protection to keep out winter’s chill, and get ready to layer up over a grey crewneck sweatshirt for casual, everyday winter style. 

For more active pursuits this winter, it’s hard to beat the lightweight yet layering-friendly appeal of the fleece jacket. This polyester fleece jacket is equipped with multiple pockets for your everyday carry, and colors like navy are neutral enough to pair with anything. Wear it with dark denim for a casual evening grabbing beers at your favorite brewery, or take it on the trail with technical pants. 

Fleece jackets can be surprisingly luxurious, believe it or not, especially this handsome number designed by NN07 and sold by MR. PORTER. Heavy-duty fleece and a strong collar design make this an uncommonly warm fleece that’s refined enough to be worn with an Oxford shirt and wool trousers this winter. 

Filson’s flannel shirts and waxed jackets are the stuff of legend as far as heritage gear is concerned, no doubt about it. This fleece jacket is a technical, more lightweight way to get just as much warmth and rugged style in your wardrobe. It’s designed to dry quickly and serve as a comfortable mid or top layer in plenty of conditions. 

The North Face excels at crafting all things technical for adverse conditions, so it only makes sense that the brand’s designs hold up even when done on a smaller scale in lighter fabrics. Take this fleece jacket: It’s packed with useful pockets and technical details like reinforced elbow patches, and yet it should wear easily with work pants or black stretch hiking pants, on or off the trail. 

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