Fleece, thermal velor
Fleece (English for a soft fluffy pile, German: Faserpelz) is the English term for a velour fabric, usually made from polyester, e.g. from recycled PET bottles.
In 1979, the fabric was introduced by Malden Mills Industries Inc. (USA). The company markets its products under the brand Polartec and is considered the world market leader in this field.
Fleece is not a woven fabric but a knitted fabric. During knitting, plush loops are formed, which are then cut open and brushed up. Because fleece is pronounced like the German word „Vlies“ (nonwoven), confusion with nonwoven fabric is common in German-speaking countries.
Fleece is used mainly for warm functional clothing in outdoor sports, such as jackets, trousers, hats, gloves, but also blankets.