Fleece sweatshirt - the perfect insulation layer?

We can hear about multi layer clothing in practically every article devoted to the methodology of dressing in the field for colder days. Without a doubt, it is the most efficient method in terms of thermal comfort and allows us to adapt to sudden changes. The blog about jackets appeared some time ago, so today we will talk about the insulation layers - fleeces.

In a word of introduction - as we probably all know, it is the air that is responsible for the insulating qualities of our clothes, due to its low thermal conductivity. Therefore, we must remember that it is the material's ability to collect air that will determine its properties. Of course, a thicker sweatshirt will be warmer than a thinner one, but this is also indirectly connected with the fact that there is more space in a thicker material to accommodate the air heated by our body. We must also remember, that too strong compression of the insulation layer will limit its performance.

The second element is the air between the layers. More layers - more zones of insulating, heated air. In connection with this phenomenon, sometimes better insulation will be provided by combining two T-shirts - for example a thermoactive and classic one - with a thin fleece than a single T-shirt with a thick one. More layers also means the possibility of a more precise fit, so it is worth considering before buying a model with a slightly lighter weight.

The lightest and in our opinion the most universal one - Helikon Alpha currently available in Tactical and Hoodie versions. Hoodie - equipped with a hood, Tactical - Velcro panels on shoulders. A characteristic feature of the model is made of grid fleece material - fabric with a weight of 310 g/m2 with a spatial structure on its surface. In addition to its interesting appearance, it allows to maintain a stable layer of air between the fleece and the jacket, as well as facilitates the removal of moisture outside.

Moreover, thanks to its form it is an ideal model to work with a softshell jacket. The cuffs with welts instead of fasteners, collar type collar and double-sided zipper for easy access to pockets will allow us to use the layering. An additional plus for aesthetic values and differentiation from the classic, already standardized "fleece".

For colder days you may need something with a little more weight. And here we have a few options to choose from. The first one will be the Stratus model created strictly for outdoor applications and a related one, equipped with a Cumulus hood. Both sweatshirts are made of 330 g/m2 fleece combined at critical points with durable nylon fabric. As the model was created for use with the jacket as well as on its own, it was equipped with a segment of solutions supporting both systems.

The shoulder area exposed to wiping during use of the backpack was reinforced with the previously mentioned nylon. The sleeves around the elbows and forearms were treated with a similar treatment. A valuable addition here is also a material panel under the zipper limiting the wind through the zipper. A ventilation panel built into the armpit area is also a very useful feature of both blouses. In combination with a softshell jacket equipped with a zipper in this place it allows for efficient temperature regulation.

The company's offer also includes a more "duty" model. The Defender sweatshirt is very similar to the Stratus model. A collar of the stand-up type, reinforced arms and sleeves, good protection against wind. However, it has been equipped with a number of solutions introduced for officers of the uniformed services. First of all, the QSA system - Quick Side Access also used in the Cougar jacket. This solution enables quick access to the holster carried directly on the waist. The jacket allows us to discreetly carry a short weapon, while at the same time allowing us to dynamically get on in an emergency situation. Secondly, HID - Hidden ID panels equipped with Velcro fasteners hidden in fleece pockets. This system allows an officer to remain discreet until it is necessary to expose the markings - then it is enough to remove the pocket for ID cards and unit identifiers from the unfastened pockets.

The highest models of Helicon fleece are made of the so-called Double Fleece - a material with a weight of 380 g/m2. They are designed to be worn individually in situations of increased effort, mainly for tactical applications. Liberty and equipped with Patriot hood is an ideal solution for low temperatures thanks to both extremely thick insulation and "seals". - The Patriot has a removable cuffs, a zipper protection and, in the case of the Patriot, an adjustable hood with a canopy to protect against rainfall. At really low temperatures it is also possible to use it with a softshell. In this case, zippers placed under the armpits will be useful - with such intense insulation, every effort will heat up the interior solidly.

And finally, a small alternative to a sweatshirt made of fleece - paradoxically it is a jacket. Wolfhound is an ultra-lightweight model filled with one of the most advanced warming materials - Climashield Apex. The model was designed to be used as an outer layer, however, flexible, low-profile cuffs and a small thickness allow it to be placed under the jacket at a radical temperature drop. As for the insulation itself - Apex is characterized by very high performance and resistance to compression at the seams.

However, some important aspects should be kept in mind. The Wolfhound jacket comes with a compression bag included - use it only when carrying. If you keep the jacket in a compressed state for a long time, it will lose its warming properties. Finally, a small tip, probably known to most people using sleeping bags. When placing the jacket in the bag, do not fold it, just chaotically push it together. This will prevent repeated bending of the filling in specific places - it will positively affect the life of the jacket.