Macpac Nitro Fleece Pullover – Reviewed & Tested

The Macpac Nitro Fleece Pullover is one of the lightest mid layers out there, but does it actually hold up when the temperature drops? Explorer Francesca tested it in every season to see if it stacked up.

When I first saw the Nitro, I thought there was no way it would be an effective layering option. But, after playing with it in the store and buying one to test myself, I fell in love with it and Macpac’s ethos of creating gear for whatever the weather might throw at you.

Why am I the right person to do this review?

I’ve spent the last four years navigating the Aussie bush solo – from day hikes to waterfalls, to 12 months of camping in wild and remote spots across the Blue Mountains. My adventures have been in all seasons and every kind of weather you can imagine. 

Read more: 12 Things I Learnt From 12 Months of Solo Camping

Naturally, finding lightweight gear has been a focus. Taking on trails in all seasons means being exposed to some fast-changing conditions, so finding those goldilocks layers that weigh almost nothing but keep me warm has been super important. 

Plus, I’ve worked for two major outdoor retailers and have had access to my fair share of layering systems, which I’ve put through their paces on my many different trips. My days at work were often spent working with customers to help them find the right gear and clothing for a range of very specific individual needs. Both of these experiences have allowed me to figure out what works well and what I can leave at home. 

Francesca’s weekends usually look something like this

Quick Specifications

Weight: 110g (Women’s size 10) 140g (Men’s size M)
Waterproof: No
Fit: Runs smaller as the Alpha Direct fabric has very little stretch
Colourway: Black, Red, Navy Blue and Light Blue (Women’s) | Black, Green, Orange, Blue (Men’s)
RRP: $179.99

The women’s Nitro Fleece in red

Performance

Coming in at only 110g (for the women’s size 10), the Macpac Nitro Fleece Pullover is one of the most lightweight mid layers I own. It’s able to trap needed heat while on the move, whilst simultaneously releasing excess heat, so I maintain a constant, comfortable body temperature. As someone who tends to run hot, it’s been a dream. 

When I first saw it on the shelf, I took a risk and bought one, and it’s become one of my favourite pieces of gear. I even own a second in another colour!

I’ve taken the Nitro Fleece up Mount Kosciuszko and on every camping trip as my mid layer, sleeping layer, and everything in between. It’s been my best friend on cold mornings at camp, and on those early morning and late evening walks during the shoulder seasons. I found it perfect for the days when the air temperature is starting to drop off, but by the afternoon, I’m heating up.

The super breathable Polartec Alpha fleece helps you regulate your temperature

Turns out it was designed to suit high energy outputs and tested by the New Zealand Alpine team, a group of expedition climbers who seek to help young, aspiring climbers and alpinists who want to improve their mountain skills. NZAT teamed up with Macpac in 2011 and formed a partnership that led Macpac to create the Alpine Series. All of which explains how it manages to live up to the hype.

Durability

While the fabric looks thin and flimsy, I’ve found it to be hard wearing. The fabric itself is called Polartec Alpha Direct, a recycled polyester that’s moisture-wicking, breathable, and incredibly fast drying. It was originally designed for use in the US Special Forces to create consistent warmth in a range of extreme environments. 

Taking it up and down Acacia Flat with a 50L pack was a significant test for the durability of the fabric on high wear points over the shoulders, and I was amazed to see no changes to the fabric or any pilling. The Nitro Fleece emerged from the wash with no changes to fabric or sizing, and it’s handled every trip I’ve taken it on with ease. 

After using my first fleece for close to a year, I was so impressed with the durability and function that I bought another in a different colour. That being said, I don’t think the Nitro Fleece Pullover would hold up too well on an unmanaged track. The mesh nature of the fabric could easily become caught, leading to snagging and possible tears. 

Packability

This fleece weighs next to nothing and rolls up nicely into its hood, making it a great choice for day, overnight, and multi-day hikes. 

110g and only this much space tax before compression

Comfort

When I’m outdoors, being warm and comfortable is pretty important. No matter the type of hike or conditions I expect, having lightweight and effective layers is key to comfort, and this one is very warm for its weight.

The Nitro runs small as there’s very little stretch in the fabric, so sizing up or trying on in store is a good idea.

As a reference, I’m normally a size 8-10, but I needed a size 12. For fleece mid layers to work efficiently, they need to fit close, but also need room for a base layer underneath and flexible movement.

The fabric is so lightweight that I hardly felt like I was wearing a mid-layer, making it perfect for high-energy output sports when I want to keep the chill off but don’t want to overheat. Due to the nature of the fabric, if there’s an increase in wind or a big drop in temperature, I probably need an additional outer layer like a wind or rain jacket to help trap the heat in. 

Speaking of comfort, the thumb loops are great, but also help the fleece to stay in place overnight when I sleep in it. Also, I find thumb loops comforting at all times.

Thumbs loops, a big yes from us!

Design

The design of the Nitro Fleece Pullover is simple and the only difference between the men’s and women’s versions is the addition of a chest pocket for men (classic). It has minimal seams and stitching, something I like in my clothing to avoid rubbing while walking. 

The nature of the mesh fabric means it’ll only work as intended if the wind is low. This might render it unworthy without an outer layer to ensure warmth, depending on how much you’re moving. It’s most effective in shoulder seasons when wind is lower and average temperatures are milder, but still cold. 

The Nitro Fleece feels like a single piece of fabric

Sustainability

Macpac is B-Corp Certified (just like We Are Explorers!) and commits to sustainability. The brand uses organic cotton, responsibly sourced down, and bluesign fabrics. Macpac also offers gear repairs on products within its warranty period, in a bid to promote reusing gear that still has life left in it. There’s a focus on rethinking how we use gear, education around best practices for gear care and washing, and what that looks like for the longevity of products. 

The brand’s sustainability page is extensive and includes links to carbon reports and Higgs Index scores that allow brands to assess their sustainability performance and the impact of their products.

As for the Nitro Fleece, the fabric is 78% recycled polyester and bluesign approved, meaning it represents a responsible use of resources. Not bad at all!

Read more: How (and Why) to Wash Your Waterproof Jacket

Price

At $179.99 RRP, I certainly wouldn’t call the Nitro Fleece a budget item – at full price, it’s more of a splurge and something that not every hiker is going to need. But if you’re taking on a mix of climate unknowns, going longer distances, or looking to cut down weight, it’s an investment that I’d consider. At the time of writing, it’s on sale for $134.99, which represents pretty good bang for your buck.

As someone who does a lot of walking across all seasons and in all weather, I was more than happy to pay the price for not just one, but two of them. While it’s an investment for a piece of clothing, it’s a mid-layer worth having in your gear collection if you’re getting out often.

Fluffy goodness that’s worth the price if you’re exploring often

Final Thoughts

The Nitro Fleece Pullover is a really smart layering choice for people looking to really reduce weight or simply looking for something that works in tandem with their body. It’s adaptable for a wide range of conditions and I always have it packed in case the weather suddenly changes. Slight nip in the air at camp but not cold enough for a puffer? Temperatures drop, but a lightweight puffer and a T-shirt aren’t quite enough? The Nitro is the perfect mid-layer, and in some situations, the perfect outer layer.

However, it’s probably not for everyone. For the average day hiker, it’s probably more techy than you realistically need. If you just need a simple fleece, there are still some great options that aren’t as focused on being form-fitting and light. The Polartec Alpha Direct fabric really thrives as part of a more technical layering system while being ultra lightweight, so would need to be carefully chosen by the wearer. 

I was skeptical at first, but after so much usage out on the trails and as part of my sleep layering system (and, honestly, just around my house in the depths of winter) it’s blown me away at effective it is, not only at trapping heat, but regulating my body temperature while on the move. As someone who tends to run hot but feels the cold, it’s hard to find the balance with a mid-layer system that doesn’t overheat me the second I start moving, but the Nitro Fleece manages it nicely. 

Ready for many more climate-controlled adventures

FAQs Macpac Nitro Fleece

Is the Macpac Nitro Fleece waterproof?

Nope. The fleece is designed to breathe, not block rain. Bring a waterproof jacket for protection from wind and rain. 

Is the Macpac Nitro Fleece good for multi-day hikes?

Absolutely. It packs into its own hood and is incredibly light. It makes it ideal for thru-hikes and lightweight missions.

How durable is the Macpac Nitro Fleece?

Surprisingly tough – but avoid scrubby off-track walks. It’s not invincible.

Is the Macpac Nitro worth the price?

If you’re hiking in varied conditions or doing multi-day treks – 100%. For casual strolls? It might be overkill but at least you’ll be comfy.