Fashion

The Vancouver Uniform: 9 Alternatives to the Pervasive Patagonia Fleece Pullover

Have layers, will travel. We’ve rounded up a selection of cozy chic zipped fleeces to keep you warm, no matter the activity.

By Sally Michael White /

Even on the sunniest days in this city, there’s a high chance that it will, in fact, be chilly later and you will be happy to slip into the cozy embrace of a fleece. That being said, wouldn’t it be nice if your sweater wasn’t the exact same style (ahem, Patagonia) as half the people in your immediate vicinity? Whether you’re heading up a mountain or posting up on a patio, bring one of these stylish half-zip pullovers. You can thank us later.

a woman with long hair wears a striped sweater

Manon Knit Zip Sweater from Wemoto

Mix some spring flavour into your wardrobe with this playful mint and lavender jacquard striped Manon sweater from Wemoto. It is made of 100-percent no-pill cotton, which is sure to feel fresh and breezy with every wear. $165, eugenechoo.com

a green and blue half zip sweater, laid flat on a white background

Axis Polar Fleece Pullover from Frank and Oak

Frank and Oak’s retro-inspired relaxed-fit pullover is made with a specially engineered fleece that is designed to retain its performance and softness over time, while reducing microfibre pollution and biodegrading at a rate similar to natural fibres like wool. $149, frankandoak.com

someone is wearing a green sweater and crossing their arms in front of their chest; their face is cropped out of the photo

SnoDay Polar Frontside Sweater from Aritzia

This quarter-zip mock-neck sweater from Aritzia’s TnAction line is made from weightless Polartec fleece, meaning it will keep you warm without any bulk. Each of the five available colours feature an adjustable easy-cinch hem and low-profile zippered side pockets. $110, aritzia.com

a happy woman in a hat is wearing a green and white sweatshirt that zips up

Vargag Lite Fleece from Fjällräven

Fjällräven was first developed in a small town in Sweden where the mountains and forest meet the sea. Sound familiar? It’s no wonder its outdoor wear has gained popularity in Vancouver over the last several years. The Vargag Lite fleece, available in a variety of monochrome and two-tone colours, is a timeless layer for any outdoor adventure. Best of all, the company offers lifetime repairs, so you can really put it through its paces. $155, fjallraven.com

a white sweatshirt laid flat on a white backdrop. it has a zipper at the neck and has a black stripe across the chest.

Midweight Fleece Colour Block Quarter Zip from Reigning Champ

Vancouver-based athletic wear brand Reigning Champ prides themselves on an “obsession with quality and make.” Its handcrafted striped quarter-zip is made from a mid-weight fleece with a super-soft brushed interior in a full-cut silhouette designed to look good on all body types. $190, ca.reigningchamp.com

READ MORE: 8 Very Nice Black Leggings That Are a Dupe for Lululemon

a woman with long hair wearing a dark-green, over-sized half-zip sweatershirt

One Half Zip Stein Gender Free from Roots

Part of Roots’ gender-free One Collection, (an inclusive, sustainably made fleece collection available in an extended size range) the Stein Half Zip may just be the classic-fit sweatshirt you’ve been searching for. We love the double topstitched detailing around the neckline and the subtlety of the tonal embroidered logo. Made of organic cotton and recycled materials, you can feel good about looking good. $108, roots.com

a woman with long hair wearing a half-zip light grey sweater on a grey background

Organic Quarter Zip from Colorful Standard

This oversized quarter-zip from Colorful Standard is PETA approved, made from 100-percent organic sustainable fibers and feels so unbelievably soft, you’ll want to throw it on top of every outfit. The hardest part will be deciding which of their 50-plus colours to choose from. May we suggest Pacific Blue? $120, wootoseeyou.com

READ MORE: 8 Blundstone Alternatives to Keep Your Feet Dry in Style

a woman wearing a green button-up sweatshirt on a white background

Buttoned Polar Sweatshirt from Sporty and Rich

Inspired by vintage sportswear with a luxurious twist—think Princess Diana in an effortless oversized sweatshirt and bike shorts—Sporty and Rich is all about looking great while playing hard. With details like a popped snap-button stand up collar and three lay-flat front pockets, this pullover is a perfect layer for your next regatta or ski trip. $325, holtrenfrew.com

woman wearing purple half-zip sweatshirt on a blue background

Mountain High 1/2 Zip Fleece from Free People

Envelope yourself in boxy, bold contrast Mountain High fleece. The proportions of the super comfy oversized cut are balanced out with a shorter cropped length, high neck, and adjustable hem for a cool, carefree look, especially when paired with a simple black legging. $135, freepeople.com