Fleece or softshell—which should you choose for your employees?

A warm fleece with a print? Or perhaps a rain-resistant work softshell with a hood? Choosing the right corporate apparel is a decision that affects not only the team’s comfort but also the image of the entire brand—which is why customers are increasingly wondering whether a printed fleece or a softshell featuring the company logo is the better option. Both options have their supporters, and the choice isn’t obvious—it depends on working conditions, the season, the industry, and the nature of the duties performed. In this article, we’ll compare both materials, highlight their strengths, and suggest when to opt for a specific solution.

In this article, you will learn:

• How does fleece differ from softshell, and what are their properties?
• What are the most important differences between the two materials?
• When is it worth choosing branded fleece for your team?
• Why is work softshell gaining popularity?
• In which industries is fleece best suited, and in which is softshell?
• How to effectively brand corporate clothing with a logo?
• FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

How does fleece differ from softshell, and what are their properties?

Before deciding which clothing is best for your employees, it’s worth learning about both materials. Fleece is a soft, lightweight, and fluffy fabric usually made of polyester, known for its excellent thermal insulation properties. It keeps you warm, wicks away moisture effectively, and is incredibly soft to the touch. Softshell, on the other hand, is a modern, three-layer fabric that combines flexibility, breathability, and resistance to wind and light rain. The outer layer protects against the elements, while the inner layer provides warmth.

If you’re looking for fleece jackets with a company logo, our selection includes both classic styles (for women and men) and more technical options tailored to various uses.

What are the main differences between the two materials?

Although both products serve a similar purpose—they provide warmth and serve as a medium for visual branding—they differ significantly in the details. Fleece is lighter, softer, and more pleasant to the touch, but it doesn’t protect as well against wind or rain. Softshell is heavier, more technical, and resistant to changing weather conditions, but feels less “cosy.” In terms of durability, softshell wins—its structure is more resistant to abrasion, pilling, and stretching. Fleece, on the other hand, performs better in the price category—it’s a great solution when you need a larger quantity on a limited budget. If you’re looking for a cohesive collection, check out our selection of promotional apparel with prints, where you’ll find both types in many color options.

When should you choose branded fleece for your team?

Company fleece is a great solution wherever employees spend most of their time indoors or in conditions where thermal comfort is essential. Custom-printed fleece works perfectly as an outer layer in cooler warehouses, offices, or production halls, but also as a mid-layer under a jacket in winter.

It’s best to choose a work fleece when:

• Your employees work mainly indoors but in cooler environments,
• you want lightweight, soft, and comfortable clothing,
• you’re looking for a cost-effective solution at an attractive price,
• you want to ensure your team’s comfort on cool mornings and evenings,
• you plan to order clothing for corporate events, trade shows, or training sessions.

Fleece also pairs well with other wardrobe items, such as a custom-printed long-sleeve shirt, creating a cohesive corporate outfit.

Why is work softshell gaining popularity?

Work softshells are a choice that has gained immense popularity in recent years—and for good reason. They combine the benefits of a windbreaker, a fleece, and technical apparel into a single, slim layer. A softshell with a company logo looks great, emphasizes professionalism, and gives your team a modern look.

A printed softshell is worth considering when:

• employees perform their duties outdoors, regardless of the weather,
• you need clothing resistant to wind and light rain,
• you want your team to have a modern look,
• freedom of movement and fabric flexibility are important,
• you want the clothing to serve both an image-building and protective function.

Custom polo shirts are often paired with softshells, creating an elegant, business-appropriate ensemble suitable for customer interactions.

In which industries is fleece best suited, and in which is softshell?

The choice between fleece and softshell often depends on the nature of the work. Printed fleece is ideal for the food service industry, retail, internal logistics, education, healthcare, and customer service—anywhere where there is no exposure to harsh weather conditions. It’s worth ordering when your employees frequently go outside the building (gardeners, gas station attendants) or need to enter rooms with refrigerators (warehouses, food wholesalers). On the other hand, work softshells reign supreme in construction, the service industry, transportation, installation, and among field crews and security personnel. A good complement to both options can be a custom-printed T-shirt, which serves as a base layer. Remember thatworkwear with a logo is not just a matter of functionality—it’s also a marketing tool that builds brand recognition in public spaces.

How to effectively brand company clothing with a logo?

Printed workwear should be carefully crafted to maintain an aesthetic appearance for a long time—even with frequent washing. For fleece jackets, embroidery is most commonly used, as it looks elegant and is very durable. Softshells are also ideal for embroidery, and can additionally be branded using the transfer or flex method. Well-designed printed workwear is an investment that pays off in the form of a consistent brand image, greater customer trust, and employee identification with the company. If you care about professional craftsmanship, choose a trusted partner for corporate clothing with a logo.

Do you want to equip your team with comfortable and stylish clothing that highlights your brand’s professionalism? Check out our full range of clothing and promotional items with logos and choose the perfect solution for your company—we’ll help you select materials, colors, and marking techniques!

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

Which is warmer – fleece or softshell?

Fleece generally has better thermal insulation properties as a standalone layer, while softshell provides better protection against wind and moisture, so it may feel warmer in outdoor conditions.

Can softshell be machine-washed?

Yes, most softshells can be washed at 30°C without fabric softeners, which could damage the membrane. It’s always a good idea to check the manufacturer’s label.

What is the best marking method for fleece?

The most commonly recommended solution is computer embroidery—it is durable, elegant, and resistant to repeated washing.

Is softshell suitable for working in the rain?

Softshell is resistant to light rain and wind, but in heavy rain it is better to opt for a jacket with a fully waterproof membrane.

What is the minimum number of garments required to order logo branding?

This depends on the supplier and the branding technique—in many cases, orders can be fulfilled starting from just a few to a dozen or so pieces. Contact us, and we’ll prepare an offer tailored to your needs.