British brand Musto has launched two new Polartec fleeces for the winter season

Shearling Polartec Fleece – £165 – 390g


Sizes: men’s S-XXL, women’s 8-18
Colours: True Navy, Black and Charcoal
Musto say:
Made from a luxuriously soft high pile construction, this fleece works well as outerwear in cool, fair weather or worn under an outer shell for additional warmth in cold, wet conditions. The funnel neck design on this fleece is complemented by Ripstop Nylon overlays on the front and back yoke for wind-resistance, added water resistance and durability. Flat locked seams make them soft against the skin and a zip guard minimises skin irritation for extra comfort. Zipped pockets to the sides provide ample storage for smaller items and auto-locking zip pulls keep the zip securely in place so there’s no risk of it sliding open.
We say:
Backpackers may favour multiple thin layers, but there’s a significant market for chunkier fleeces. This looks like an option for walkers looking for a single durable, multi-purpose warm garment.

Tidal Polartec Fleece – £150 – 315g


Sizes: men’s S-XXL, women’s 8-18
Colours: True Navy, Black and Charcoal
Musto say:
Ideal as a midlayer when out and about, the new Tidal Polartec Fleece is lightweight whilst offering warmth on those wintry days thanks to its lightly insulated properties. The quick-drying fabric makes it suitable for wearing during periods of inclement weather. A funnel neck and stretch binding on the hem and cuffs fit the garment close to the body to increase warmth and comfort. Similar to the Shearling Fleece the Tidal has flat locked seams and zip guard for additional next-to-skin comfort, hand pockets and auto-locking zip pulls.
We say:
This one seems better suited as a thinner midlayer, and looks like it will dry more quickly than the Shearling Fleece. 315g is a decent weight for a zippered fleece jacket.
musto.com