Fleece jackets can be a bit… uninspiring, to say the least. Many technical fleece products look quite samey-samey, which is why Finisterre’s Orsik Fleece stopped me in my tracks as I was scrolling through potential models to add to T3’s best fleece jacket guide.
I’m a huge fan of Finisterre as a brand. Not only do I think it’s one of the most actual sustainable companies out there, but its products continuously impress me. They look great and perform even better; plus, Finisterre is based in Cornwall, UK, not far from where I live in Somerset, so it kind of feels like I’m supporting a local brand when I cover it on T3.
Inspired by oceanographic maps, the Orsik Fleece in the delightful Contour colourway is a sight to behold. The pattern is beautiful, and the large, contrasty pockets add to the overall design aesthetics of the garment.
Admittedly, it looks very fashionable – maybe too fashionable for some – but the fleece is also functional with large pockets and a mesh lining that improves ventilation and breathability. Should you buy Finisterre Orsik Fleece? Let’s find out.
Finisterre Orsik Fleece review
Price and availability
The Finisterre Orsik Fleece was launched in September and is available to buy now at Finisterre UK, Finisterre US and Finisterre AU for a recommended price of £165/ $210/ AU$380. It comes in two colourways: Contour and Raven Black. It’s available for both women (sizes 6-18) and men (sizes XS to XXL).
Specifications
- Weight: 943g/ 33.15oz (men’s large)
- Pockets: 2 zippered pockets and 2 hand pockets
- Waterproof: no
- Materials: 100% recycled polyester (fleece), 100% recycled nylon (trim)
- Fit: Relaxed
Design and materials
The Orsik Fleece is made entirely from recycled polyester (see also: How environmentally friendly is fleece?). The Sherpa-style jacket has a relaxed fit and full zip at the front, so it’s quite easy to get inside and take it off. You’ll find a mesh liner inside, which helps breathability and traps some air to improve insulation.
The Orsik has a slightly longer back and a shorter front, which makes it slightly more confusing what size to get (more on this below). It also has a low-cut neck, practically exposing whatever base layer is underneath it even when fully zipped up.
There are four pockets: two hand pockets and two zippered pockets on top of those. All of them are very generous in size; I especially appreciated the zippered pockets, as they can store a lot of bits and bobs.
The Orsik Fleece is free from branding apart from the small Finisterre badge on the front.
Performance and comfort
I found the sizing slightly off. The models on the website are the same height as me and wear a medium, and since I’m usually a medium, it made sense for me to get the Orsik in medium, too.
Strangely enough, when I received Orsik, the arms were too short, and the front did not feel long enough, either. I do have long arms, so for a moment, I contemplated keeping the medium jacket but decided to have it sent back and request a large one instead.
For the record, Finisterre doesn’t do swaps. You have to return your unused garment, after which the company refunds the money. Then, you can reorder the product in a different size. It’s not a hindrance, but thought I’d mention it.
The large version fits much better on me (I’m 6’0”/ 184cm). The arms could still be a little bit longer, but they aren’t too short, and that’s the main thing. The shorter front also feels better on the large jacket.
Sizing issues aside, I’m absolutely in love with the Orsik Jacket. I don’t mind the low-cut neck – I’m not a cold person and hardly ever wear scarves – and felt that the fleece was perfect for interchangeable weather, thanks to the full zip construction that lets you adjust the Orsik.
It’s a bit bulky as a mid-layer under a waterproof jacket, although if you have a larger shell with a more relaxed fit, I’m sure you can have it over the Orsik.
Verdict
The Finisterre Orsik Fleece is not without contradictions, but overall, it’s a fantastic fleece jacket that looks nice and feels warm. It might not replace technical fleeces as a staple in your mountaineering setup, but if you’re looking for a casual garment that will keep you toasty during Autumn, I’d highly recommend the Orsik.
Also consider
Uniqlo Fluffy Yarn Fleece Full-Zip Jacket: A budget-friendly option that offers warmth and comfort with a simple design, perfect for everyday wear. It lacks the eco-friendly credentials of the Orsik but provides solid value.
Patagonia Retro-X Fleece Jacket: Known for its high-quality recycled materials and windproofing, this jacket comes with a higher price tag but delivers excellent durability, warmth, and a stylish, retro look.
Arc'teryx Delta MX Jacket: A highly technical fleece designed for outdoor enthusiasts, offering exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio, breathability, and quick-drying properties, ideal for layering during hikes or climbs.
