Adventure Gear Spotlight: Kailas Women’s Full-Zip Hooded Fleece Jacket Review
If you’re on the hunt for a nice full zip base layer hoodie jacket for your next outdoor adventure be sure to check out the Kailas Women’s Full-Zip Hooded Fleece Jacket. I got the opportunity to test out this super comfortable lightweight jacket and I have been absolutely loving this super comfortable fleece jacket. From casual outings to fall hiking adventures and even using it as a base layer backcountry split boarding at Mt. Rainier.
Quick Disclaimer:
I received a Kailas Women’s Full-Zip Hooded Fleece Jacket from the company for the purpose of testing and providing my honest review. I am under no obligation to write a positive review, and the following gear assessment is my own genuine opinions after using this product on multiple hikes and adventures in the great outdoors.
Quick Kailas Women's Full-Zip Hooded Fleece Jacket Spec's:
- Material: 91% Nylon, 9% Spandex
- Fit: Sports Cut for active performance
- Design: Simple yet versatile, perfect for a range of activities
- Features:
- Patchwork fabric on the front chest enhances durability and wear protection
- Thumbhole cuffs ensure a secure fit and allow for better mobility during activities
- Soft, brushed fabric for a comfortable feel with excellent warmth retention
- Windproof and warm patchwork fabric on the chest and elbows for added protection
- Convenient chest pocket with a sturdy YKK zipper for secure storage
- Elastic hem provides a snug, flexible fit
Ideal For:
- Daily wear
- Hiking
- Urban commuting
Key Benefits:
- Warm and breathable
- Soft, cozy, and lightweight comfort
My Thoughts On The KALAS Womens Full-Zip Hooded Fleece Jacket
So far, I’m really loving the Kailas Women’s Full-Zip Hooded Fleece Jacket. This lightweight fleece has been absolutely perfect for those hikes where it’s a little brisk at the start but warms up as you go—or when you know you’ll be shedding layers once you’ve gotten moving 5 min into your hike. The breathable material is fantastic for hiking, keeping me comfortable without overheating, while still offering just enough warmth to take the chill out of the air.
On my most recent splitboarding adventure at Mt. Rainier National Park, I used this Kailas Fleece jacket as my base layer and it did an amazing job of keeping me warm while still being highly breathable. I ended up shedding my outer shell and spent most of the trek up to Panorama Point comfortably in just this lightweight Kailas fleece.
This jacket really shines as a layering piece. On colder days, it’s ideal as a base layer under something heavier, like a down jacket or ski shell, thanks to its lightweight, stretchy fleece. That said, I wouldn’t recommend wearing it alone in really cold weather unless you’re doing a strenuous activity like hiking that builds up body heat.
For instance, it was perfect for trekking uphill split boarding at Mt. Rainier, where I stayed warm without overheating. On the other hand, during a low-energy activity like strolling around the Christmas-themed Bavarian town of Leavenworth, WA, I layered it under my down puffy jacket, and the combo was just right—warm without feeling bulky.
I wore this lightweight hooded fleece on its own during a crisp fall hike in Olympic National Park. It did an awesome job of cutting the chill without making me too hot. Whether I’m layering it or wearing it solo, this fleece has been a fantastic addition to my outdoor gear collection.
This has been a great piece to throw on for early morning hikes or jogs and I’ve also used it as a go-to layer for casual outings. I like that it is a lightweight full-zip jacket making it super easy to take off if I wish to shed a layer.
One thing I love about this lightweight base layer jacket is all the thoughtful little features. The stretchy side pockets are roomy and comfortable, and the large chest pocket is the perfect size for my phone or a few small essentials. It even has two large interior pockets on the inside of the jacket that I never noticed before in addition to the 3 zippered pockets. The soft, brushed fabric inside gives it a cozy feel that I can’t get enough of. Plus, the reinforced chest and elbow patches add durability and a bit of wind resistance right where you need it most. I also really love the stretchiness of this lightweight fleece. This Kailas jacket moves with me so effortlessly that It doesn't ride up or feel too tight in the arms while I’m hiking, scrambling over rocks, snowboarding, or just hanging out on a tree stump eating a granola bar.
That said, it’s not without a couple of minor drawbacks. The sizing runs a little small, so I’d recommend double-checking the size chart and maybe going up a size for a better fit. I definitely needed to size up from my regular size. If you get the correct size this fleece is great! Also, while I really appreciate the thumbhole cuffs—since a lot of jackets don’t include them at all—they feel like a bit of an afterthought. They could be more comfortable and designed a little better, but honestly, I’m still glad they’re there because they’re handy for keeping your jacket in place while wearing gloves on chilly mornings.
Even with those small critiques, I’ve been thrilled with this fleece. It’s lightweight, comfortable, and incredibly versatile. Whether I’m hiking, camping, layering up for winter snow adventures, or just running errands, this jacket has been an awesome addition to my wardrobe. I can’t wait to see how it holds up on even more outdoor adventures!
More About The Kailas Lightweight Women's Full-Zip Fleece Jacket
Design and Fit
The Kailas Women’s Full-Zip Hooded Fleece Jacket is designed with a sporty, athletic cut that gives it a modern, flattering fit. It is very stretchy and hugs and moves with your body. The jacket features a soft, brushed texture on the fabric that feels absolutely amazing to the touch. It is very warm and soft. The fit is flexible, with a stretchy hem and thumbtack cuffs that ensure the sleeves don't ride up while wearing gloves with your trekking poles or if you are using this as a base layer while snowshoeing skiing, or snowboarding. The jacket moves with your body yet does not feel restrictive during activities. I felt that the jacket had plenty of stretch when climbing up over logs, boulders, and snowboarding. Be sure to check the sizing guide before ordering, as the jacket may run slightly small for some, so consider sizing up.
Material and Comfort
Crafted from a blend of 91% nylon and 9% spandex, the material is soft, breathable, and perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, running, or even just a walk in the park. The brushed fabric provides a cozy feel that’s perfect for layering, while still being lightweight enough to wear on its own. Thanks to the fabric's breathability, you won’t overheat during those more strenuous moments like hiking up hill. The jacket is comfortable enough to wear all day long, whether you're adventuring or out in town running errands.
Durability and Protection
I liked how Kailas added reinforced patches on the chest and elbows for extra protection, for outdoor activities. The chest for blocking wind and the elbows because that's a high wear and tear area. I actually have some lightweight jackets where I have worn holes in the elbows because I love wearing them so much. Excited to see how this holds up in the elbows after a few years of use. The high-quality YKK zipper is a nice touch and seems to zip open and closed, no prob without snags.
Cool Features
One nice feature of this jacket is its pockets. I really liked the large chest pocket that is perfectly sized to hold your phone, keys, or small essentials like chapstick, or wallet. The two zipper side pockets are also pretty spacious with a nice stretchy feel to them. I only recently noticed this jacket has two spacious nonzip interior jacket pockets in addition to the 3 zippered pockets. They provide additional storage space for snacks or any other small items you may need while out on the trail. The included hood is a nice touch, offering extra protection from wind when you're on the go.
Style and Visibility
The fall-inspired orange with darker accents on this fleece is such a fun, vibrant color for outdoor adventures. I love how bright and visible it is—it’s perfect for safety, especially if I’m ever in a situation where search and rescue might need to find me. If you’re someone who likes to stand out on the trail for safety reasons, the orange is a great choice. Or it just really pops in photos!
The sleek design looks great, is functional, and is super stylish. The mix of lighter and darker hues keeps it looking polished without being too flashy, and it’s available in black and light purple if you’re into more subtle options. But honestly, that orange? It’s hard to beat for both vibrance and visibility.
Jacket Strech and Flexibility
The fabric has a nice amount of stretch that contours to your body, allowing for a flattering and flexible fit. This jacket moves with you, making it ideal for a variety of activities, from light hikes to daily wear. Whether you’re stretching, bending, or reaching, the jacket won’t restrict your movement, so you can focus on the task at hand without worrying about uncomfortable fabric.
Versatile Use
From hiking, snowboarding, ski touring, and other adventures the Kailas Women’s Full-Zip Hooded Fleece Jacket is incredibly versatile, making it a great choice for multiple occasions. It’s perfect for hiking, but also works well as a lightweight jacket for casual wear. The balance of warmth and breathability means it can be worn in a range of conditions, from chilly mornings to cooler evenings.
Warmth and Breathability
This jacket strikes a perfect balance between warmth and breathability. It’s warm enough to provide comfort in cooler weather but allows for airflow when you're moving or working up a sweat. Whether you’re climbing a steep trail or taking a brisk walk, the jacket’s breathable fabric will ensure you stay comfortable without overheating. I especially loved using this jacket for split boarding. Trekking uphill with my ski shell jacket and a backpack loaded with essentials like an avalanche shovel, probe, first aid kit, and other gear, I got hot fast. It was nice to shed the heavier layers and rely on this fleece for the uphill part of the climb.
How Do I Wash the Kailas Women’s Full-Zip Hooded Fleece Jacket? Is the Kailas Women’s Full-Zip Hooded Fleece Jacket Machine Washable?
The Kailas Women’s Full-Zip Hooded Fleece Jacket is recommended as handwash only to maintain the softness, breathability, and overall durability of your jacket. I know it's totally tempting to toss it in the washing machine for a quick clean taking the time to properly care for your jacket can help it stay in top-notch condition.
Quick Tips To Properly Wash Your jacket:
- Handwash with Cold Water: Use cold water and a mild detergent to gently wash the jacket by hand. Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach, as they can damage the fabric.
- Gently Scrub and Rinse: Lightly scrub any areas with dirt or stains, and rinse thoroughly to ensure no detergent is left behind.
- Avoid Wringing: To prevent stretching or damaging the fabric, avoid wringing the jacket out. Simply press out excess water gently.
- Air Dry: Lay the jacket flat on a clean towel or hang it to air dry. Avoid using a dryer, as the heat can affect the fabric's texture and fit.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Comfortable Design: The soft, brushed fabric feels cozy and lightweight, making it easy to wear all day long without feeling weighed down.
- Breathable Material: Great for staying cool during outdoor activities, this jacket lets your body breathe while keeping you comfortable on the move.
- Stretchy Hem: The elastic hem moves with you, offering a snug fit that stays in place, no matter where your day takes you.
- Durable Build:
- Reinforced chest and elbow patches add durability, so you don't have to worry about wear and tear on your adventures.
- The YKK zipper keeps your items secure, offering peace of mind while you're on the go.
- Practical Features:
- The large chest pocket is perfect for storing your phone or small essentials, keeping them easily accessible.
- Spacious side pockets offer plenty of room for extra gear or snacks.
- The functional hood is there when you need it, providing a bit of extra protection from wind or light rain.
- Stylish and Functional:
- With a sleek design and mix of colors, this jacket is versatile enough to wear on the trail or around town.
- The bright orange option stands out, making it easy to spot in any situation.
- Fit and Flexibility: The fabric has just the right amount of stretch, ensuring a comfortable, flattering fit that moves with you throughout your day.
- Versatile Use: Whether you're hiking, running errands, or just out for a walk, this jacket is perfect for just about any activity.
- Warmth and Breathability: It offers a great balance of warmth and breathability, keeping you comfortable whether you're exploring the outdoors or enjoying a casual day out.
Cons
- Sizing: The jacket runs small. Consider checking the size chart and sizing up from your usual size for the best fit.
- Thumbhole Cuffs: The design feels a bit like an afterthought and could use improvement to be more comfortable when in use.
- Breathability: While the jacket's high breathability is a great feature for hiking and active use, it may not provide enough insulation on particularly chilly days if doing low-impact activities like strolling through town.
The Kailas Women’s Full-Zip Hooded Fleece Jacket has quickly become one of my go-to pieces of outdoor gear. It’s lightweight, breathable, and perfect for those hikes that start off chilly but warm up fast—or for layering under a heavier jacket when the weather calls for it. I’ve worn it split boarding at Mt. Rainier, hiking in Olympic National Park, and even just running errands, and it’s been comfortable and versatile every time. I love the stretchy pockets, cozy fabric, and the way it moves with me without ever feeling bulky. Whether I’m layering up for winter adventures or throwing it on for a crisp fall day, this jacket has been an awesome addition to my gear lineup, and I totally recommend it.
If you enjoyed this gear review, you might also like my blog posts about the down jacket I paired with this fleece on my trip to Leavenworth, and the Kailas trail runners I wore in many of the photos featuring the hooded fleece.
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