Pop quiz: name one high-end designer brand that hasn’t recently added some sort of fleece jacket to their menswear roster. Struggling? That’s probably because there isn’t one. A few years back, the only way fleece would be inescapable was if you had somehow become trapped at an ornithological convention. Now it’s everywhere.

In just a few short seasons, thick-pile outerwear has leapt from the shoulders of your old high-school geography teacher and onto every fashion-mag front page, haute-couture runway and streetwear Instagram account worth their salt. It’s the new dad shoe, or mom jean – a fundamentally uncool garment, repurposed and revived by the fashion world’s propensity for ironic statements.

Only, it’s not just irony anymore. Fleece has passed that point now, and the more we wear it, the more we come to genuinely appreciate it. It’s light, it’s warm, and it’s delightfully retro. It adds depth and texture to an outfit and popping one on feels like a hug from a friendly bear.

Who wouldn’t want a fleece jacket?

Pull & Bear

Three Ways To Wear A Fleece Jacket

Hiking-Inspired

At its core, the best fleece jackets are outdoorsy garments. Fleece was first developed by outdoor clothing and with the hiking trend still on the ascent, it’s possible to wear one in its intended manner and still make it look good.

Starting from the ground up, get yourself some mountain-worthy footwear. Luxury leather hiking boots if you’re thinking classic, or teched-out trail runners if you’re thinking contemporary. Trouser-wise, a pair of regular-fit cargo trousers cuffed to just above the ankles should do the trick, particularly if chosen in black, khaki or navy blue.

For the main event, go retro. Patagonia is the king of fleece jackets, known for its thick-pile, throwback goodness. And in terms of the colour, cream is always a safe bet. Tie it together with a mini roll beanie and you’re good to go.