selection · 4 min read
Fleece vs French terry: choosing a sweatshirt fabric
Both are cotton knits with a raised or looped back. The difference decides warmth, weight, pilling and how the garment feels against skin.
By Weft Bridge · Reviewed by our Guangzhou sourcing team · Updated 2026-11
The structures
Fleece is knitted with a pile that is brushed after knitting, creating loft. It traps air and feels warm for its weight, but the brushed surface pills more readily.
French terry has unbrushed loops on the inside and a smooth face. It is lighter, absorbs moisture better and drapes softly.
Side by side
| Fleece | French terry | |
|---|---|---|
| Inside | Brushed, fluffy | Looped, unbrushed |
| Weight | 280–400 gsm | 240–320 gsm |
| Warmth | Higher for the weight | Moderate |
| Pilling | More likely | Less likely |
| Best for | Hoodies, cold-climate sweats | Loungewear, mid-weight sweats |
What to specify
- GSM and the tolerance, on finished fabric.
- Whether the back is brushed or looped.
- Anti-pilling finish, and whether it survives washing.
- Shrinkage after the wash you will put on the label.
FAQ
Is fleece warmer than French terry?
At the same weight, yes, because the brushed pile traps more air.
Why does my fleece pill?
Brushing exposes short fibres. Combed yarn and an anti-pilling finish reduce it.