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Rab’s renowned for making top quality products for use in the harshest conditions, and its entry for this mid-weight fleece test was the Boulder Pull-on. The Boulder Pull-on is made using Polartec High Loft Thermal Pro, which offers the highest warmth to weight ratio of any Polartec fabric. The fleece is very light and packs down small, and would be of interest to lightweight adventurers with limited pack space. In fact, at just 382g and with the jacket’s small pack-size, you’ll barely notice it in your bag.

The high loft fibres trap in more insulating air than closer-cut fleece fibres making this fleece ideal for colder conditions. It also serves the dual purpose of making the jacket incredibly comfortable to wear. The sleeves are easily rolled up thanks to elasticated hems, this is great for heat management during activities when it would be too cold to take your fleece off. To help with insulation the collar fully zips up and is comfortable against the neck.

The North Face Genesis jacket is a slightly bulky mid-weight fleece that’s made from Polartec Thermal Pro – the warmest fabric on offer from Polartec. It gives high breathability, a quick drying time and it is made using no less than 50% recycled materials. Like most other fleeces it features an interactive zip so you can attach it to your shell.

The Genesis has been treated with a DWR (durable water repellent) that’s a nice touch on a fleece; while not fully waterproof it will offer you some protection from the odd shower. The cuffs are thick and comfortable and stretch to fit almost any wrist size and this, coupled with the high collar and adjustable hem, make the fleece a great insulator that will keep out chilly draughts. The Polartec Thermal Pro is incredibly warm and feels great against skin. The jacket also features two handy inner mesh pockets.