I use fleece ALOT in the backcountry. It dries out fast and is light. I would concentrate on a textured fleece if you plan on using it exclusively for outer wear. I have a performance fleece that I use and put rain gear on over when the wind picks up. I am switching over to the rivers west backcounty gear this year and it is a textured fleece. It has a 10 year waterproof gaurantee. This way I can use it for dry or wet weather, thus cutting down my weight.