While I always try my best to look put together with cute OOTDs even as cold weather shuffles in, sometimes my heart just beckons for a comfortable and cozy athleisure look that’s low-lift (sorry, jeans). Layering is key in the fall and winter for activewear pieces. On their own, these styles — leggings, tanks, and long sleeves —  tend to be more lightweight, so a layered look with a reliable fleece jacket on chillier days is my go-to outfit formula to ensure I’m comfortable and warm.

I recently added the REI Co-op Trailmade Fleece Jacket to my fashion lineup, and it’s all I’ve grabbed for lately when heading out the door to walk my dog and run errands. The style is currently on sale for 30 percent off and available in six colors, including classic black (which I opted for). 

REI Co-op Trailmade Fleece Jacket

It’s ideal as a standalone jacket on warmer days and the right thickness to layer under a down jacket on colder ones. At just $42, the insulated, midweight style is a cold-weather must-have that I’m considering snagging in an additional color while it’s marked down. 

I own my fair share of thick, heavy fleece pullovers and jackets that aren’t exactly easy to layer under winter coats; however, this REI Co-op option fits perfectly under my puffer jackets and even my more tailored trenches without feeling constricted. The silhouette is relaxed but still fitted around the bust and cinches slightly at my waist for a flattering shape, and the fleece has held up beautifully and is still ultra-soft after multiple washes. It features zippered hand pockets for keeping my phone, card case, and keys safely stowed and a double-layer collar that, when fully zipped, keeps my neck and chin warm. 

Shoppers also praised the style for being great for layering under a jacket without being too “bulky.” Another reviewer who was contemplating more expensive styles was ultimately happy they snagged this option since they’ve been wearing the “comfy and cute” fleece everywhere since they purchased it. A third person said it even kept them “plenty warm” on single-digit temperature days.

Head over to REI to grab your own Trailmade Fleece Jacket, and keep scrolling for other cozy fleece styles to add to your wardrobe. 

REI Co-op Hyperaxis Fleece Jacket 2.0

Patagonia Retro Pile Marsupial Fleece Pullover

The North Face Campshire Full-Zip Fleece Jacket 

Columbia Back Bowl Fleece Jacket

Kari Traa Rothe Fleece Jacket

Ali Faccenda is a shopping writer with a focus on fashion, beauty, and home content with an emphasis on first-person reviews and sale finds.