Columbia Women's Benton Springs Full Zip Fleece - Soft Cozy Layer

In this review of the Columbia Women's Benton Springs Full Zip, the bottom line is simple: this fleece is for women who want a warm, lightweight everyday jacket that layers easily and feels soft against the skin. The reviewer found it delivers dependable insulation without bulk and a classic, flattering fit thanks to its active cut and collared neck. Built from 100% polyester MTR filament fleece, it earns recommendation for casual outdoor activity, commuting, and travel where comfort and packability matter most.

Key Features

• Soft fabric: The 100% polyester MTR filament fleece provides instant insulation and a plush hand feel that keeps the wearer warm without adding weight.
• Full-zip closure: A zippered front lets you adjust ventilation quickly, making the jacket versatile from cool mornings to chillier afternoons.
• Zippered pockets: Two side zippered security pockets keep small essentials secure when walking, commuting, or layering under a shell.
• Classic fit: The modern classic fit with an active cut gives a flattering silhouette that moves with light outdoor activity without feeling restrictive.
• Collared neck: The collared neck adds extra coverage at the throat and helps retain warmth on windy days.
• Interior drawcord: An internal drawcord allows a customizable shape at the hem for a closer fit when needed.

Who It's For

The Columbia Women's Benton Springs Full Zip is best for women seeking a reliable, soft fleece for everyday wear, travel, or light outdoor activities. It suits those who value warmth, softness, and a non-itchy fleece that layers easily under coats or over base layers.

Shoppers who need a technical winter parka, heavy-duty waterproof outerwear, or insulated jacket for extreme cold should look elsewhere; this fleece is intended as a midlayer or standalone jacket in mild to moderate cold rather than a primary cold-weather system.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Very soft 100% polyester fleece provides comfortable warmth without bulk.
• Zippered hand pockets secure keys and phone during activities.
• Classic, active cut fits well for layering and offers a flattering profile.
• Interior drawcord and collared neck add fit customization and extra coverage.

Cons

• Sizing can vary; some customers report it runs slightly small so consider sizing up if between sizes.
• Not a waterproof or heavily insulated jacket for severe winter storms.

Specifications

Material	100% polyester MTR filament fleece
Closure	Full-zip front
Pockets	Two side zippered security pockets
Fit	Modern classic / active cut
Neck	Collared neck
Adjustability	Interior drawcord at hem

Our Verdict

The Benton Springs Full Zip is a dependable everyday fleece for women who want soft warmth, secure pockets, and a flattering, lightweight fit. It performs well as a midlayer or standalone jacket in cool weather and offers solid value thanks to its comfortable fabric and practical features. Choose this if you need a cozy, versatile layer that packs easily and looks neat on and off the trail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this fleece warm enough for winter?
It provides good insulation for mild to moderate cold and works best as a midlayer under a shell for colder conditions.

Does the jacket run true to size?
Customer feedback is mixed; some find it true to size while others say it runs a bit small, so consider sizing up if you are between sizes.

Are the pockets secure for daily use?
Yes, the two side zippered security pockets keep small items like a phone or keys secure while moving around.