Columbia womens Fire Side II Sherpa Full Zip Jacket - Plush Warm Layer

In this review of the Columbia womens Fire Side II Sherpa Full Zip Jacket the bottom line is simple: this is a plush, flattering fleece for anyone who wants serious warmth without bulk. Built from high-pile hourglass sherpa, the jacket delivers an immediately cozy feel and a dressier look than a basic fleece, making it a smart choice for chilly walks, everyday wear or as a mid layer under a shell. The full zip and posh stand-up collar let the wearer lock in heat while the hourglass silhouette keeps the fit flattering.

Key Features

• High-pile sherpa: The extra plush sherpa pile provides an insulating, velvety surface that feels soft against skin and traps warmth efficiently.
• Hourglass silhouette: The tailored hourglass cut offers close-fitting comfort that flatters the waist while still allowing layering underneath.
• Full zip and collar: The full-length zipper and plush stand-up collar let you seal in heat quickly when temperatures drop.
• Zippered hand pockets: Two well positioned zip pockets keep hands and small essentials secure and warm on the go.
• Comfort trims: Cuffs and hem are trimmed for added comfort, reducing drafts and improving fit over a longer day outside.
• Versatile layer: Lightweight enough to wear as an outer layer in cool weather or as a warm mid layer under a shell for cold winter activity.

Who It's For

The Fire Side II is aimed at women who want a warm, attractive fleece that works for daily wear and outdoor activities in shoulder season or layered in winter. It suits those who prefer a softer, more luxe texture and a fitted look rather than a boxy, technical jacket.

People seeking a very technical, waterproof outer shell or a super-bulky parka for extreme cold should look elsewhere; this fleece excels at insulated comfort and style but is not a substitute for a waterproof hard shell or a heavy winter coat on its own.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Luxuriously soft sherpa pile creates immediate cozy warmth and a dressier appearance than standard fleece.
• Flattering hourglass fit and full zip with a plush collar make it practical and comfortable for varied wear.
• Zippered hand pockets and trimmed cuffs/hem add secure storage and reduce draft for better overall comfort.

Cons

• Not waterproof or highly windproof, so it performs best as an outer layer in mild conditions or as a mid layer in colder weather.

Specifications

Brand	Columbia
Material	High-pile sherpa fleece
Fit	Regular fit with hourglass silhouette
Closure	Full-length zipper with stand-up collar
Pockets	Two zippered hand pockets
Use	Outer layer in cool weather or mid layer for winter

Our Verdict

The Columbia womens Fire Side II Sherpa Full Zip is a great buy for anyone who wants a soft, warm, and attractive fleece that works for everyday wear and layering. It offers good value for those who prioritize cozy texture, flattering fit, and handy zip pockets, but those needing waterproof protection will want a dedicated shell to pair with it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this jacket good for winter?
It is warm and works well as a mid layer in cold winter weather but is best paired with a weatherproof shell for wet or very windy conditions.

Does it run true to size?
The jacket is a regular fit with an hourglass cut; customers report it fits nicely with sleeves slightly long for added coverage, so follow the sizing chart when choosing.

Can it be machine washed?
The sherpa pile is typically machine washable on a gentle cycle, but check the garment care label for specific instructions to preserve softness.