When the temperature dips and the wind picks up, the battle lines are drawn: fleece vs. cotton. Both fabrics are wardrobe staples, but which one reigns supreme in the fight against the elements? Our guide breaks down the details.
What’s the difference between fleece and cotton?
Let's face it, both fleece and cotton have earned a spot in our active arsenals. But when it comes to pushing your limits, which one reigns supreme? Here's the intel you need to dominate, no matter the terrain.
Fleece
First up is fleece. It's no secret that we love this insulation champion at ThruDark. You'll find it from top to toe in our most popular products, including our Phalanx Fleece, Mantra Black Ops Pants, and award-winning Centurion Alpine Jacket.
Fleece is all about cutting-edge performance, and that often means synthetic materials. The most common is a type of polyester called polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The fibres are woven and then specially treated to create a loft of air pockets. These pockets trap your body heat, keeping you incredibly warm without weighing you down.
Cotton
We value cotton for its exceptional breathability. We love it in oversized tees, long-sleeve layers, and trousers for both performance and everyday comfort.
Derived from the robust cellulose fibres surrounding cotton plant seeds, cotton boasts an unmatched strength-to-weight ratio. Unlike most synthetic materials, cotton wicks moisture away from your skin, preventing chafing and irritation — a crucial advantage for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts.
Fleece and cotton offer distinct advantages tailored to different needs. Fleece, engineered for performance, provides superior insulation by trapping heat while remaining lightweight and breathable. On the flip side, cotton is renowned for its natural softness and comfort that is hard to beat.
Which is better - fleece or cotton?
Understanding these key differences will help you pick the perfect fabric for any adventure.
INSULATION
Fleece is the undisputed insulation champion. Its fluffy construction traps heat like a champ, making it ideal for cold weather activities like skiing or winter hikes. On the other hand, cotton is simply not built for winter conditions. While comfortable, it struggles to retain warmth, leaving you shivering in colder temperatures.
Winner: Fleece
COMFORT
Comfort is key and fleece can be a bit suffocating. While it excels at warmth, it's not the best at letting your body breathe during intense activities. However, cotton allows air to flow freely, keeping you cool and comfortable during
Winner: Cotton
Breathability
Fleece dries reasonably fast for a warm fabric. However, fleece can still take longer to dry than cotton, especially in humid environments. Cotton's natural fibres wick away moisture and dry quickly, keeping you fresh and comfortable.
Winner: Cotton
Water resistance
Fleece offers some water resistance, especially thicker varieties. However, it's not truly waterproof. Water will eventually soak through, leaving you feeling damp and chilly. Cotton, however, absorbs water like a sponge. Once wet, it loses its insulating properties and takes a long time to dry, making it a poor choice for wet conditions. For ultimate waterproofing, you want a shell layer.
Winner: Fleece
Durability
Fleece is generally durable, but with limitations. It can withstand regular wear and tear, but constant abrasion can cause pilling. Cotton is renowned for its durability. It can handle numerous washes and frequent use without showing much wear. However, very thin cotton can be susceptible to tears and rips.
Winner: Cotton
The verdict
Know your mission. Choose fleece for winter adventures, and cotton for sweat-drenched pursuits. For a touch of luxury and the best of both worlds, explore fabrics like Polartec® Thermal Pro®, found in our best-selling Mantra Fleece, or opt for 100% premium cotton tees.
