Difference Between Fleece Vs Faux Fur

Fleece and faux fur are two popular fabric choices known for their cozy and warm characteristics. While fleece is made from synthetic fibers like polyester, faux fur replicates the look and feel of real animal fur using synthetic materials.

These fabrics have similarities and differences in terms of cost, durability, care, and appearance. Fleece is affordable, durable, and easy to care for, while faux fur offers a luxurious aesthetic but may require more delicate handling.

Understanding these aspects can help individuals make informed decisions when selecting between fleece and faux fur for clothing, blankets, and other cozy items.

Key Differences Between Fleece and Faux Fur

Fabric Composition

• Fleece: Fleece is made from synthetic fibers, usually polyester. These fibers are knitted together to create a soft and warm fabric. The synthetic composition of fleece allows for its affordability, durability, and ease of care. It is a popular choice for everyday items like clothing and blankets.
• Faux Fur: Faux fur is also made from synthetic fibers, but it is specifically designed to mimic the look and feel of real animal fur. The composition of faux fur fibers is carefully crafted to replicate the texture and appearance of various animal furs. The synthetic nature of faux fur makes it an animal-friendly alternative to real fur.

Cost

• Fleece: Fleece is generally more affordable compared to faux fur. It is made from synthetic fibers like polyester, which are widely available and can be produced at a lower cost. Fleece is a popular choice for budget-conscious consumers who still want a cozy and warm fabric for their clothing and blankets.
• Faux Fur: Faux fur, on the other hand, tends to be more expensive. The manufacturing process involves creating synthetic fibers that replicate the luxurious look and feel of real animal fur. The intricate production and attention to detail contribute to the higher cost of faux fur. It is often seen as a premium option for those seeking a more elegant and glamorous aesthetic.

Durability

• Fleece: Fleece is known for its durability. It is a sturdy fabric that can withstand regular use and washing without losing its shape or softness. The synthetic nature of fleece fibers helps them maintain their integrity over time. Fleece garments and blankets are often long-lasting and can provide warmth and comfort for an extended period.
• Faux Fur: While faux fur can also be durable, it may be more prone to certain issues compared to fleece. The long fibers in faux fur can sometimes become matted or tangled with extensive wear or improper care. Shedding of faux fur can also occur, especially in lower-quality varieties. However, higher-quality faux fur products are designed to be more durable and better maintain their appearance over time.

Care

• Fleece: Taking care of fleece is relatively easy. It is machine washable, allowing for convenient cleaning. Fleece garments and blankets can be laundered at home using regular laundry detergents. Additionally, fleece dries quickly, minimizing the time required for maintenance. This convenience makes fleece a popular choice for everyday items that require regular washing.
• Faux Fur: Faux fur requires more delicate care compared to fleece. It is often recommended to avoid machine washing and instead opt for dry cleaning. Cleaning faux fur at home can result in matting or damage to the fibers. Additionally, faux fur products may need occasional brushing to maintain their appearance. Careful handling and following the care instructions provided by the manufacturer are essential to preserve the look and longevity of faux fur items.

Appearance

• Fleece: Fleece has a soft and fluffy texture. It typically has a smooth surface with a brushed or pile texture that provides warmth and insulation. However, fleece does not resemble animal fur. It is available in a wide range of colors and prints, offering versatility in terms of design options. Fleece is often chosen for its cozy and practical look.
• Faux Fur: Faux fur is specifically designed to mimic the appearance of real animal fur. It often has longer fibers and a more textured surface compared to fleece. Faux fur can provide a luxurious and glamorous aesthetic, emulating various animal furs such as fox, mink, or rabbit. The visual appeal of faux fur makes it a popular choice for fashion-forward individuals who want to add a touch of elegance to their clothing and accessories.

Insulation

• Fleece: Fleece is known for its excellent insulation properties. The synthetic fibers in fleece create air pockets that trap body heat, keeping the wearer warm in cold temperatures. Fleece is a popular choice for winter clothing and blankets as it provides effective insulation and helps retain body heat.
• Faux Fur: Faux fur also offers insulation, but its effectiveness may vary depending on the quality and thickness of the fabric. The long fibers in faux fur can provide some level of warmth, making it suitable for colder weather. However, the insulation capabilities of faux fur may not be as efficient as those of fleece.

Breathability

• Fleece: Fleece is generally breathable, allowing air to circulate through the fabric. The synthetic fibers in fleece often have moisture-wicking properties, which help in regulating body temperature and preventing excessive sweating. This breathability makes fleece comfortable to wear during physical activities or in moderate weather conditions.
• Faux Fur: Faux fur is generally less breathable compared to fleece. The dense and plush nature of faux fur can restrict airflow, leading to reduced breathability. Wearing faux fur in warmer climates or engaging in activities that generate heat may cause discomfort due to reduced ventilation.

Texture

• Fleece: Fleece has a soft and cozy texture. The fabric is typically smooth with a brushed or pile surface, providing a plush feel against the skin. Fleece is often chosen for its comfortable and tactile appeal, making it suitable for garments and blankets that require a soft touch.
• Faux Fur: Faux fur has a distinct texture that mimics the look and feel of real animal fur. The fibers are designed to have a textured surface with varying lengths, creating a luxurious and tactile sensation. Faux fur offers a visually appealing and plush texture, enhancing the overall appearance of clothing and accessories.

Thickness

• Fleece: Fleece is available in various thicknesses. It can be lightweight and thin, suitable for layering or use in milder climates. Alternatively, fleece can also be produced in heavier weights, providing extra warmth in colder conditions. The thickness of fleece can be chosen based on the desired level of insulation and comfort.
• Faux Fur: Faux fur can vary in thickness depending on the design and intended use. It is available in both lightweight and heavyweight options. Thicker faux fur tends to offer more warmth, while lighter versions are suitable for decorative purposes or adding a touch of luxury to garments or accessories.

Moisture-wicking

• Fleece: Fleece fabrics often have moisture-wicking properties. The synthetic fibers in fleece can efficiently draw moisture away from the skin and towards the outer surface of the fabric, where it can evaporate. This moisture-wicking ability helps keep the wearer dry and comfortable during physical activities or in humid conditions.
• Faux Fur: Faux fur typically does not possess moisture-wicking properties. The dense nature of faux fur can trap moisture close to the skin, leading to a less breathable and potentially clammy feel. Faux fur is not designed for moisture management and may not be the best choice for activities that involve perspiration.

Allergies

• Fleece: Fleece is generally considered hypoallergenic. The synthetic fibers used in fleece production are less likely to cause allergic reactions compared to natural fibers such as wool. This makes fleece a suitable choice for individuals with sensitivities or allergies to certain materials.
• Faux Fur: Faux fur is also hypoallergenic since it is made from synthetic fibers. It does not contain animal proteins that can trigger allergies in some people. Individuals with fur allergies can comfortably wear faux fur without the risk of experiencing an allergic reaction.

Eco-friendliness

• Fleece: Fleece is made from synthetic fibers, typically polyester, which is derived from petrochemicals. The production of polyester has environmental implications, as it involves the use of non-renewable resources and energy-intensive manufacturing processes. However, fleece can be recycled into new fabrics, reducing waste and environmental impact.
• Faux Fur: Faux fur is considered a more eco-friendly option compared to real animal fur. By using synthetic fibers, faux fur eliminates the need for animal farming and reduces the associated environmental harm. However, like fleece, the production of faux fur involves the use of petroleum-based materials, which still contributes to certain environmental concerns.

Versatility

• Fleece: Fleece is highly versatile and used for various purposes. It is commonly used in clothing, such as jackets, hoodies, and sweatshirts, as well as blankets, scarves, and hats. Fleece can be found in different weights and styles, allowing it to be adapted to different climates and fashion preferences.
• Faux Fur: Faux fur offers versatility in terms of its usage. It can be found in clothing items like coats, vests, and accessories such as hats, scarves, and handbags. Faux fur is also used for decorative purposes in home decor, adding a touch of luxury and warmth to interiors.

Natural Alternative

• Fleece: Fleece is not a natural fabric; it is made from synthetic fibers. While it can provide similar warmth and comfort to natural materials like wool, fleece is a man-made alternative that is often chosen for its affordability and durability.
• Faux Fur: Faux fur serves as a natural alternative to real animal fur. It allows individuals to enjoy the aesthetic appeal of fur without supporting the fur industry or harming animals. Faux fur provides an ethical and humane option for those who wish to avoid using real fur.

Breathable Lining

• Fleece: Fleece is often used as a breathable lining material in various garments. It adds an extra layer of insulation while allowing moisture and heat to escape. Fleece linings can be found in jackets, coats, and other outerwear, providing warmth without sacrificing breathability.
• Faux Fur: Faux fur is not typically used as a lining material due to its dense and plush nature. It does not offer the same level of breathability as fleece. However, faux fur can be used as a decorative element on the exterior of garments, providing a stylish and cozy appearance.

Weight

• Fleece: Fleece is generally lightweight, making it comfortable to wear and easy to move around in. It is a popular choice for garments and blankets that require a cozy feel without adding excessive bulk or weight.
• Faux Fur: Faux fur can vary in weight depending on the thickness and quality of the fabric. While some faux fur may be lightweight, certain varieties can be heavier, especially those with longer and denser fibers. Heavier faux fur provides a more substantial and luxurious feel.

Softness

• Fleece: Fleece is known for its soft and comfortable texture. The synthetic fibers used in fleece production create a plush and cozy feel against the skin. Fleece garments and blankets are cherished for their softness and gentle touch.
• Faux Fur: Faux fur is designed to replicate the softness of real animal fur. The fibers are carefully crafted to mimic the smooth and silky texture of various animal furs. Faux fur provides a luxurious and indulgent feel, adding a touch of opulence to clothing and accessories.

Static Electricity

• Fleece: Fleece fabrics can generate static electricity, especially when rubbed against certain materials or in dry conditions. This can result in clinginess and discomfort. However, various anti-static treatments and fabric softeners can help minimize static build-up in fleece.
• Faux Fur: Faux fur is also susceptible to static electricity, particularly in dry environments. Similar to fleece, the fibers in faux fur can create friction and lead to static cling. Anti-static sprays or fabric softeners can be used to reduce static in faux fur garments.

Color Options

• Fleece: Fleece offers a wide range of color options. It can be easily dyed, allowing for an extensive selection of vibrant or subtle hues. Fleece fabrics are available in solid colors as well as various patterns and prints, providing versatility in design choices.
• Faux Fur: Faux fur comes in a diverse array of colors and patterns. It can imitate the natural colorations of different animal furs or showcase bold and unconventional hues. Faux fur offers a broad spectrum of options to suit individual style preferences and design requirements.

Water Resistance

• Fleece: Fleece is not inherently water-resistant. The synthetic fibers used in fleece production can absorb moisture. However, some fleece garments may undergo water-repellent treatments or have moisture-wicking properties that allow them to dry quickly. These features enhance the fabric’s ability to resist water to some extent.
• Faux Fur: Faux fur is generally not water-resistant. The fibers used in faux fur production are not designed to repel water. Faux fur fabrics can become wet and may take longer to dry compared to fleece. It is advisable to protect faux fur from exposure to excessive moisture to maintain its appearance and quality.

Design Flexibility

• Fleece: Fleece offers excellent design flexibility. It can be easily cut and sewn into various garment styles and shapes. Its inherent stretchiness allows for comfortable movement, making it suitable for activewear, jackets, sweaters, and more. Fleece can also be printed or embossed with patterns, logos, or designs, providing customization options.
• Faux Fur: Faux fur offers design flexibility in terms of texture and appearance. It can be used as a trim or as the main fabric in garments, allowing for different design possibilities. Faux fur can be tailored into coats, vests, accessories, or even decorative accents, providing a versatile option for creating fashionable and eye-catching pieces.

Animal Ethics

• Fleece: Fleece is considered animal-friendly since it is made from synthetic fibers. No animals are harmed in the production process of fleece, making it an ethical choice for those who wish to avoid using animal-derived materials.
• Faux Fur: Faux fur is a cruelty-free alternative to real animal fur. It eliminates the need for fur farming, trapping, or using animal pelts. Faux fur allows individuals to enjoy the look and feel of fur without supporting practices that may involve animal suffering.

Warmth Retention

• Fleece: Fleece is known for its excellent warmth retention properties. The synthetic fibers in fleece create air pockets that trap body heat, providing insulation in cold weather. Fleece garments and blankets effectively retain warmth, making them cozy choices for colder climates or outdoor activities.
• Faux Fur: Faux fur can offer warmth, but its insulating capabilities may vary depending on the thickness and quality of the fabric. The long fibers in faux fur can provide some level of heat retention, but it may not be as efficient as fleece in extreme cold conditions. However, thicker and higher-quality faux fur can offer adequate warmth for milder weather or fashion purposes.

Shrinkage

• Fleece: Fleece fabrics generally have minimal shrinkage when washed and dried according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The synthetic fibers used in fleece production are resistant to shrinking, allowing the fabric to maintain its shape and size even after repeated laundering.
• Faux Fur: Faux fur is less prone to shrinking compared to natural furs. The synthetic fibers used in faux fur production are less likely to shrink when exposed to water or heat. However, it is still important to follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure the longevity and proper maintenance of faux fur items.

Outdoor Use

• Fleece: Fleece is a popular choice for outdoor activities due to its warmth, insulation, and moisture-wicking properties. It is often used in activewear, jackets, and blankets for hiking, camping, or other outdoor pursuits. Fleece is lightweight and quick-drying, making it suitable for various weather conditions and physical activities.
• Faux Fur: Faux fur can be used in outdoor garments and accessories to add style and warmth. However, it is important to consider the specific characteristics of the faux fur, such as water resistance and durability, when choosing it for outdoor use. Some faux fur fabrics may not be as suitable for extended exposure to the elements compared to specialized outdoor materials.

Fleece Vs Faux Fur: Comparison Table

Criteria	Fleece	Faux Fur
Fabric composition	Made from synthetic fibers, usually polyester	Made from synthetic fibers, mimicking real animal fur
Cost	More affordable	Often more expensive
Durability	Generally durable	May be prone to matting or shedding over time
Care	Machine washable and quick-drying	Often requires dry cleaning to maintain appearance
Appearance	Soft and fluffy texture, does not resemble animal fur	Mimics the look of real animal fur with longer fibers
Insulation	Provides warmth and insulation	Provides warmth and insulation
Breathability	Generally breathable	May have reduced breathability
Texture	Smooth surface with brushed or pile texture	Textured surface with longer fibers
Thickness	Varies, can be lightweight or heavyweight	Varies, can be lightweight or heavyweight
Moisture-wicking	Absorbs moisture and dries quickly	May have reduced moisture-wicking properties
Allergies	Generally hypoallergenic	May cause allergies in some individuals
Eco-friendliness	Synthetic fabric, not biodegradable	Synthetic fabric, not biodegradable
Versatility	Widely used for clothing, blankets, and other cozy items	Used for clothing, accessories, and home decor
Natural alternative	Not a natural fabric	A synthetic alternative to real animal fur
Breathable lining	Often used as a lining material for added warmth	Not typically used as a lining material
Weight	Lightweight	Can be lightweight or heavyweight depending on quality
Softness	Soft and comfortable to touch	Soft and luxurious to touch
Static electricity	May generate static electricity	May generate static electricity
Color options	Wide range of colors and prints available	Wide range of colors and patterns available
Water resistance	Generally not water-resistant	Generally not water-resistant
Design flexibility	Suitable for various garment styles and designs	Suitable for various garment styles and designs
Animal ethics	No animals are harmed in the production	No animals are harmed in the production
Warmth retention	Retains warmth effectively	Retains warmth effectively
Shrinkage	Minimal shrinkage during washing	Minimal shrinkage during washing
Outdoor use	Provides warmth and insulation in outdoor activities	Provides warmth and insulation in outdoor activities

Frequently Asked Questions

To Recap

Fleece and faux fur offer distinct options for creating cozy and stylish items. Fleece provides affordability, durability, and ease of care, making it a practical choice for everyday use.

On the other hand, faux fur offers a luxurious look and feel, serving as a cruelty-free alternative to real animal fur. Considerations such as cost, durability, care requirements, and desired aesthetics play a role in deciding between the two fabrics.

Whether it’s for clothing, blankets, or home decor, understanding the similarities and differences between fleece and faux fur helps individuals make choices that align with their preferences, values, and practical needs.