Columbia Women's Benton Springs Full Zip Fleece - Cozy (Style 1XXH)

In this review of the Columbia Women's Benton Springs Full Zip fleece, the bottom line is simple: this is a dependable, soft midweight layer for everyday cold-weather wear. Built from 100% polyester MTR filament fleece, it offers immediate insulation without bulk and works well as a stand-alone jacket or a layering piece under a shell. The review finds it especially well suited to casual outdoor activity, running errands, or chilly office commutes where comfort, warmth, and secure pockets matter more than technical weatherproofing.

Key Features

• Soft fabric: The 100% polyester MTR filament fleece provides plush insulation that feels soft against the skin for comfortable all-day wear.
• Full-zip closure: The zippered front makes temperature regulation easy and simplifies layering with other pieces.
• Collared neck: A collared neck adds coverage at the throat for extra warmth on blustery days.
• Zippered hand pockets: Two side zippered security pockets keep small items secure when moving around or traveling.
• Classic fit: The modern classic, active cut is lightweight and designed to move with you without feeling restrictive.
• Interior drawcord: An adjustable interior drawcord lets you slightly shape the waist for a more customized fit and added wind protection.

Who It's For

The Benton Springs Full Zip is ideal for women who want a comfortable, low-maintenance fleece for daily wear and mild outdoor activity. Hikers on cool days, commuters who layer, and anyone seeking a warm, non-scratchy fleece will appreciate the soft 100% polyester construction and simple, practical features like zippered pockets.

Those who need a fully waterproof shell, heavy-duty insulated parka for extreme cold, or a highly technical fabric with venting and taped seams should look elsewhere. This fleece excels as a warm midlayer or lightweight outer layer rather than hard-weather gear for prolonged exposure to rain or subzero conditions.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Very soft fleece that provides reliable warmth without bulk.
• Secure zippered hand pockets for storing small essentials during activity.
• Classic fit and active cut make it versatile for layering and everyday use.
• Interior drawcord lets you fine-tune the shape for comfort and fit.

Cons

• Sizing can run slightly large for some wearers, so consider sizing down if you prefer a snug fit.
• Not designed as a rainproof or insulated heavy winter coat, so it is best paired with a shell in wet or extremely cold conditions.

Specifications

Brand	Columbia
Material	100% polyester MTR filament fleece
Closure	Full zip front
Pockets	Two zippered hand pockets
Fit	Modern classic, active cut
Neck	Collared neck
Adjustability	Interior drawcord

Our Verdict

The Benton Springs Full Zip is a smart choice for anyone seeking a soft, warm, and versatile fleece that works well for everyday wear and light outdoor activity. It delivers solid value through comfortable fabric, practical zippered pockets, and a flattering active cut; just size carefully if you prefer a closer fit, and add a shell for wet weather.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this fleece warm enough for winter?
It provides good midweight warmth and is ideal for cool conditions or layered under a shell, but it is not a heavy insulated winter parka.

Does it have secure pockets?
Yes, there are two zippered hand pockets designed to keep small items secure during activity.

How does the sizing run?
Many customers find the sizing accurate, though some report it runs slightly large, so consider sizing down for a snugger fit.