Columbia Boys' Steens Mountain II Fleece Jacket - Soft Layering

Our review of the Columbia Boys' Steens Mountain II Fleece finds it ideal for active kids who need a dependable, comfortable midlayer. The single biggest reason to buy is the deep 250g MTR filament fleece: it delivers substantial warmth while remaining soft and lightweight, so it works equally well alone on cool days or as a midlayer under a shell. Fit and construction feel thoughtfully designed for everyday wear, and features like zippered hand pockets and a soft collar binding make it a practical option for school, playgrounds, and family outings.

Key Features

• 250g MTR Fleece: Provides a substantial warmth-to-weight balance that keeps youngsters comfortable without overheating.
• Full-Zip Closure: Allows easy on and off and quick temperature control when moving between indoors and outdoors.
• Zippered Hand Pockets: Keep small items secure and provide a warm spot for hands on chilly days.
• Soft Collar Binding: Adds comfort at the neck and reduces irritation during active play.
• Durable Construction: Quality stitching and materials mean the jacket stands up to repeated wear and machine washing.
• Versatile Layering: Works as a standalone light jacket or a warm midlayer beneath a rain shell or coat.

Who It's For

The Steens Mountain II is best for parents shopping for a reliable, everyday fleece for boys who spend time outdoors or need a warm, easy-care layer for school. Its regular fit and soft, midweight fleece suit active kids who prefer freedom of movement and straightforward care like machine washing.

Those seeking a heavy winter parka, a waterproof outer layer, or high-performance technical fabrics for extreme cold should look elsewhere; this fleece is intended as a warm midlayer or light jacket for mild to cool conditions rather than a stand-alone severe weather solution.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Well-balanced 250g fleece that offers warmth without bulk for versatile seasonal use.
• Zippered pockets provide secure storage for small items during play.
• Soft collar and quality stitching contribute to long-lasting comfort and durability.
• Easy-care polyester fabric is machine washable and retains shape.

Cons

• Not water resistant, so it does not replace a rain jacket in wet weather.
• Regular fit may be roomy for slimmer kids, so sizing down could be necessary for a snug fit.

Specifications

Brand	Columbia
Material	100% Polyester
Fleece Weight	250 g MTR filament fleece
Closure	Zipper closure, full zip
Lining	Polyester lining
Care	Machine wash
Fit	Regular fit for youth

Our Verdict

The Columbia Boys' Steens Mountain II Fleece is an excellent value for families who want a dependable, comfortable midweight jacket for everyday outdoor use. It shines as a soft, durable layering piece with useful features like zippered pockets and a full zip, making it a sensible buy for active kids who need practical warmth without excess bulk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this fleece heavy enough for winter?
It is a midweight 250g fleece suitable as a warm layer in cool weather but not meant as a stand-alone coat in severe cold without additional outerwear.

Can it be machine washed?
Yes, the polyester construction is machine washable and designed to retain shape and softness after repeated laundering.

Does it have secure pockets?
Yes, the jacket includes two zippered hand pockets that keep small items and hands protected during activity.