Are fleece made out of cotton?
Short answer: sometimes. “Fleece” doesn't mean just one thing—it's a family of cozy fabrics. In kids' loungewear, fleece often refers to sweatshirt fleece: a knitted fabric with a smooth outer face and a soft, brushed inner side that brings the snuggle. Sweatshirt fleece is usually cotton-rich or a cotton/poly blend. The cotton adds breathability and that familiar, natural feel; The polyester helps with durability, shape retention and quicker drying after those puddle-jumping championships.
You might also hear about polar fleece or microfleece, which are typically 100% polyester. These are fluffy and warm for their weight, great as an outer or mid layer for chilly mornings on the sides. They trap heat well and dry fast, but they don't breathe quite like cotton. For all-day wear and classroom comfort, many families love cotton-rich fleece in jumpers, joggers and hoodies because it keeps kids warm without turning the Wiggles into overheats.
There's another cousin in the mix: French terry. It's looped on the inside instead of brushed, making it lighter and perfect for in-between weather and active play. If your child runs hot or never stops moving, French terry can be a smart alternative to heaviest fleece.
At Cotton On Kids you'll find soft, easy-care loungewear across these fabric families, with plenty of cotton-rich options in hoodies, jumpers and joggers for everyday comfort. The right choice depends on your child's adventures, your weather, and how you like things to wash and wear.
How to select fleece for boys?
Start with the mission. If he's a playground sprinter or scooter pro, choose midweight, cotton-rich jumpers and joggers that breathe while they warm. A brushed fleece interior feels instantly snug without bulky layers, so superheroes-in-training can move freely. For colder mornings or winter weekends, a heaviest fleece hoodie or a polar fleece layer adds extra warmth without the stiff, “can't bend my elbows” vibe.
Think layers like you think stackable blocks. A tee plus a fleece jumper keeps him comfy from classroom to park, while a zip-through hoodie gives you the magic trick of quick on, quick off. If your mornings involve “just five more minutes,” a zip makes getting dressed feel less like a negotiation and more like a win.
Fit is your friend. Look for ribbed cuffs and hems on jumpers and joggers; They keep sleeves and trouser legs in place for climbing frames and cartwheels, and they pieces help “fit longer” as kids grow. For joggers, a comfy elasticated waistband with a drawcord helps everything stay put during tag, dance moves and sofa leaps. If your little one is between sizes, consider going up for extra grow-room—cuffed ankles keep things neat while he shoots up.
Weight matters. Lightweight or French terry styles are great for active days and trans-seasonal weather. Midweight fleece is the everyday hero for school and play. Heavier fleece or polar fleece works for chilly adventures, early sports or camping trips. If you're not sure, feel the inside: a light brush is cooler; A plush brush is toastier.
Softness isn't a luxury—it's the whole point. Kids are sensory geniuses; if it's scratchy, it's a no. Choose loungewear with a smooth outer and a gentle, brushed inner. If he's sensitive to seams or labels, seek out softer tags and flat seams where possible. The cozier it feels, the less you'll have to chase him to put it on.
Pockets are treasure keepers. Kangaroo pockets on hoodies keep hands warm and hold the very important rock he found. Side pockets on joggers stash snack money and tiny cars. Zips make independent dressing easier, especially for preschoolers keen to “do it myself.”
Color and prints turn getting dressed into play. Bold brights, classic neutrals, team colors, dinosaurs, rockets—choose what makes his eyes light up. When he loves what he's wearing, mornings run smoother and adventures start sooner. Prints also hide grass stains like a pro, in case the park calls—and it will.
Care should be easy, because real life is messy. Most fleece loungewear and joggers are designed to handle frequent washing. Wash inside out in cold water to keep colors vivid and that fuzzy inner soft. Line drying helps pieces hold their shape and reduces wear from high heat. Got a tumble-dry habit? Low heat is kinder. The goal: less laundry drama, more playground time.
Durability keeps the fun going. Cotton/poly blends in jumpers and joggers are great for busy weeks—they resist shrinkage and keep their shape, even after “one more” slide down the hill. Look for sturdy stitching at knees and seams if your kiddo is part mountain goat. And if school uniforms need a weekend buddy, a neutral hoodie or jumper pairs with everything and goes from football sideline to movie night in a blink.
Safety and comfort tag along together. A hood is cozy, but for sports or bike rides, a crew neck jumper under a jacket can be the safer, simpler choice. For littler kids, zips with chin guards and soft finishes keep sharp edges out of the snuggles. Dressing for the day's plan keeps the fun on track.
Finally, make the child the hero. Let him pick between two fleece favorites—“dino hoodie or rocket jumper?”—and watch the motivation meter jump. Add joggers that move like he does and you've got a uniform for big feelings, big imaginations and big play.
From snug jumpers to go-everywhere joggers, our boys' fleece lineup is built for movement, mess and magic. Warm without the weight, soft without the fuss, and ready for every leap, lounge and “look what I can do!” You bring the cuddles; We'll bring the cozy.
