in search for perfect fleece

The OR ferrosi jacket is a great all-around soft-shell. I own a ferrosi jacket and use it a lot, just not for backpacking. This jacket combined with an insulation layer works well for me on cold weather bike commutes, day hikes, and around town. The breathability, stretch, and durability of the ferrosi jacket is pretty awesome. At about 12 ounces for the small version, I cannot justify throwing the ferrosi jacket into my pack for most 3 season warm weather backpacking trips. I don't really use windshirts all that often while backpacking, so this jacket is too heavy to usually justify taking along with me. However, it is a great layering option for winter and early spring/late fall backpacking. Enjoy the new jacket!

You are correct on that note. I would just as well use my houdini wind shirt in spring and fall and not the ferrosi. For winter though, I think it will work out great. Like you, spring and fall I can get away with it in colder days/evenings on my commute and walk to work.

Funny, I'm always searching for fleeces without pockets and without zips. North Face does a basic 100 weight full zip fleece with pockets, http://www.thenorthface.eu/tnf-eu-en/men-s-100-glacier-full-zip-fleece-jacket/p88515.html. No zips on the pockets though. Marmot does something similar.