Work fleece jackets are warm without weight, quick-drying and comfortable from the first wear, which makes them one of the hardest-working garments in British workwear. They've earned their place in vans, warehouses, offices and site cabins across the country. The key is choosing the right weight, style and finish for the job.

Why fleece works so well for work

Fleece fabric traps air in its brushed fibres, delivering excellent warmth-to-weight performance. Unlike heavier jackets, a fleece doesn't restrict movement, making it ideal for active roles. Because polyester fleece wicks moisture and dries fast, it stays comfortable through changeable days, and it's machine-washable for easy care.

Fleece has limits too. On its own it lets wind through and isn't waterproof, so outdoor teams should pair it with a shell from our waterproof jackets range when the weather turns.

Fleece weights explained

Weight is the key spec to check, measured in grams per square metre (gsm). As a rough guide:

Anti-pill finishes keep the fabric looking smart after repeated washing, and they're worth insisting on for uniforms that represent your brand. Without one, fleece can bobble quickly where bags, belts and seatbelts rub.

Styles and features to compare

Style options have grown too: full-zip jackets, quarter-zip pullovers, fleece gilets and lined hybrid designs all serve different roles. Full-zips are easy to vent and wear open, quarter-zips layer neatly under a jacket, and gilets keep arms free for active work. Look for:

• Zipped pockets so phones and keys don't fall out when bending.
• Elasticated or adjustable cuffs to keep draughts out and sleeves clear of the work.
• An adjustable hem to trap warmth.
• Ladies' fit options, so the whole team gets a comfortable fit.

For colder roles, a fleece also layers well under a padded bodywarmer for extra core warmth without bulky sleeves.

Embroidered fleeces and branding

For branding, fleece takes embroidery superbly. The stitching sits proudly on the textured fabric for a premium, hard-wearing finish, which is why the embroidered fleece remains a corporate uniform classic.

Very fine text and thin lines can sink into the pile, so simplify small details or enlarge the logo slightly. Left chest is the usual position, with a larger back logo for teams who want to be seen from behind. Our guide to embroidery vs printing covers when each method works best, and you can see branding options in our embroidery and printing collection.

To keep fleeces looking good, wash them inside out at a low temperature, skip fabric softener, which can flatten the pile, and avoid high tumble-dryer heat. Washing similar colours together and closing zips first also helps prevent snagging and bobbling.

Quick answers

What weight fleece is best for work?

A midweight fleece of around 280gsm suits most everyday roles. Choose a lightweight microfleece for layering or mild conditions, and 330gsm or heavier for cold warehouses and winter outdoor work.

Is fleece waterproof?

No. Fleece dries quickly but lets wind and rain through, so pair it with a waterproof shell for outdoor work in bad weather.

Can you embroider a logo on a fleece?

Yes, fleece is one of the best fabrics for embroidery. Keep very fine details to a minimum, as thin lines can sink into the pile.

Browse our work fleece jackets and softshells in team colours and full size ranges, and find out how our embroidery service can add your logo. Comfortable enough that your team will actually wear them, and visible enough that your brand benefits every time they do.