When the temperatures really start to drop, every guy needs a reliable layer that pulls double duty—something that keeps you warm without weighing you down. That's why fleece has become a true cold weather staple. Once the choice of hikers and outdoorsmen, it eventually made its way into the uniform of bankers and tech bros, but is now enjoying a resurgence for men who want cozy comfort and function wrapped in a clean, modern silhouette.

Some stylish guys are opting for vintage, made-in-U.S.A. styles from heritage brands, while others are choosing bigger, bolder styles from modern labels that offer revamped silhouettes, luxe materials and a jolt of graphic patterns. Today's fleece is lighter, softer and finished with elevated details that make it just as at home under a topcoat as it is on a weekend hike. It's proof that practical gear can look damn good, no matter the location.

“You could see fleeces as the new hoodie,” Lauren Cochrane, noted fashion writer and author of The Ten, told MR PORTER recently. “Some fleeces are so discreet that they can be worn as a neutral .. but for the more colorful one, go full Seth Rogen and wear with other colors and patterns—that's totally allowed now.” Whether you prefer a classic pullover, a zip-front jacket or a retro-inspired sherpa, a good fleece earns its keep. It's the kind of piece that works seven days a week—layered over a tee on mild days or under your coat when the cold really hits. Here are the best fleece pieces to get you through the season in comfort and style.