Atajo Waffle Rugby vs Encima Fleece: Which Layer Wins?
By Cotopaxi - Gear For Good | Free shipping on orders $99+ | Published: 2026-11-02
Category: Comparisons
Compare the Atajo Waffle Rugby and Encima Fleece Pullover on fabric, warmth, and layering. See which midlayer fits your cool-weather wardrobe.
Quick answer
Choose the Atajo Waffle Rugby for a breathable, retro-styled layer that works indoors and in mild cool weather; choose the Encima Fleece Pullover for a lightweight recycled midlayer that adds warmth under a jacket or stands alone on chilly days.
Fabric and warmth: waffle knit vs fleece
The Atajo Waffle Rugby is made with Better Cotton Initiative fabric and a waffle knit that traps air in its grid structure. That gives it a bit of warmth without bulk, but it is not a fleece—it breathes well and suits transitional temperatures rather than deep cold.
The Encima Fleece Pullover is a 100% recycled lightweight fleece with a snap front. It is designed as a midlayer that pairs with a tee and down jacket, and it also works solo. The fleece surface provides more insulation than the waffle knit, but it is still lightweight, so it shines in cool-to-cold conditions when layered.
Style and versatility
The Atajo’s casual collar and waffle texture give it a retro, easy-going look that works with jeans or chinos for everyday wear. It reads more like a shirt than a technical layer, so it transitions from a cool office to a weekend walk.
The Encima has a sportier, utilitarian vibe with its snap front. It is less about style and more about function—an easy grab for a hike, a chilly morning, or as an extra layer in a pack. Neither is dressy, but the Atajo leans casual-smart while the Encima leans outdoor-casual.
Layering strategy and packability
Both are midlayers, but they layer differently. The Atajo Waffle Rugby is trim enough to wear under a jacket without feeling bulky, and its breathability helps prevent overheating when you move between indoors and outdoors. The Encima Fleece Pullover is slightly bulkier due to the fleece, but its snap front lets you vent quickly, and it slides easily under a down jacket.
For travel, the Encima packs down small and is lightweight, making it a reliable just-in-case layer. The Atajo is also packable but less insulating, so it is better for milder trips where you mainly need a stylish cover-up.
Trade-offs to weigh
- Warmth vs breathability: The Encima Fleece provides more insulation for cold days, but the Atajo Waffle Rugby breathes better for active use or fluctuating temperatures. If you run hot or stay active, the Atajo may keep you more comfortable; if you get cold easily, the Encima is the warmer choice.
- Style vs function: The Atajo’s waffle texture and collar skew casual-smart, while the Encima’s snap-front fleece is purely functional outdoor wear. Pick the Atajo if you want a layer that looks at home in town; pick the Encima if you prioritize utility.
- Layering bulk: The Encima is slightly bulkier under a jacket, but its snap front vents heat quickly; the Atajo is trimmer but less warm on its own. Consider what you’ll wear underneath and over each piece—the Encima needs a little more room in the shoulders.
Product facts
- Atajo Waffle Rugby - Women's: Made with fabric from the Better Cotton Initiative and features a casual collar. The waffle knit is breathable and the collar adds a retro look, so it works well as a standalone piece in mild weather.
Atajo Waffle Rugby - Women's - Encima Fleece Pullover - Men's: 100% recycled lightweight fleece with a snap front. The snap front allows quick venting, and the recycled fleece adds warmth without weight, making it a versatile midlayer.
Encima Fleece Pullover - Men's
Who should choose which
Best for
- Women who want a breathable, retro-style layer for mild cool weather and everyday wear
- Men who need a lightweight recycled fleece midlayer for hiking, travel, or chilly mornings
Not for
- Anyone facing freezing temperatures who needs a dedicated insulating midlayer (the Encima is warmer but still lightweight)
- People who prefer a technical, sporty look over a casual shirt-style layer
