Comparison · Sweatshirt Fabric

French Terry vs
Fleece

Both are classic sweatshirt and jogger fabrics, but built for different seasons and hand feel. GSM, brushing and use-case compared.

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Quick Answer

French Terry or Fleece — Which One?

In one line: French terry (loopback) is unbrushed, light and suits mid-season wear; fleece is brushed and built for winter warmth. French terry's looped inner face is its signature; fleece is brushed on both faces. Altunkaya produces french terry at 420-440 gsm and fleece at 270-280 gsm.

PropertyFrench Terry (Loopback)Fleece
GSM420-440 gsm270-280 gsm
SurfaceLooped inside, flat outsideBrushed on both faces
WarmthMedium (breathable)High
SeasonMid-season, year-roundWinter
Main useSweatshirts, joggers, light cardigansHeavy sweatshirts, jackets, blankets
Width180 cm175-180 cm
Make a Decision

Which One Fits Your Product?

French terry fabric for mid-season sweatshirts

Year-Round, Premium Sweatshirts

Want a breathable, sweat-free, soft-hand product? French terry is the right choice — a favorite of loungewear and DTC brands.

→ French Terry recommended
Fleece / brushed three-thread fabric for winter sweatshirts

Heavy Winter Sweats, Jackets

Need maximum warmth and a firm, shape-holding fabric? Choose fleece or brushed three-thread.

→ Fleece / Three-Thread recommended
French Terry Full Guide → Fleece Full Guide → Fabric Glossary →
FAQ

Common Questions About French Terry and Fleece

What is the basic difference between french terry and fleece?
French terry (loopback) has a looped inner face and is unbrushed, making it lighter (420-440 gsm at Altunkaya). Fleece is brushed on both faces, giving a fuzzy texture and more warmth (270-280 gsm). French terry suits mid-season wear, fleece suits winter.
Which is lighter and which is warmer?
Fleece is warmer thanks to its brushed, fuzzy structure and feels lighter to the touch. French terry, being unbrushed, is more breathable, doesn't trap sweat, and suits transitional seasons like early fall and spring.
Which should I choose for sweatshirt production?
For heavy winter sweatshirts and joggers, choose fleece or brushed three-thread fleece. For a lightweight, breathable, four-season sweatshirt, choose french terry. Premium DTC brands often position french terry as their "soft and light" line.
Why is french terry also called "two-thread" fabric?
In Türkiye, french terry is also known as "two-thread" (iki iplik) because its knit structure uses two yarn systems — ground and loop. Three-thread fleece adds a third, brushed pile yarn, making it thicker and warmer than french terry.

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