I've used Minky on 5 or 6 quilts so far -
it does come in some colors in 60" width (example:
http://www.fabric.com/ProductDetail....7-62f5792a6a05)
and I've used different piles, designs, embossings - no problems with any of them. They suck the quilting design in and it is awesome looking! I have bought both online (from fabric.com) and from my LQS and I can't tell you any difference in the quality. I have pieced the back to have it larger and again no issues. I had read somewhere there there is a lesser grade minky that some bigger stores carry. I can't address that tho. Maybe someone else has that experience?
I've not used Fleece so I can't do a comparison for you.
I do include batting - never even gave it a thought of not including...
One tip about using Minky - cut it and take it outside and shake the fire out of it to get the loose threads and shedding off of it.
Try one - people seem to LOVE the Minky!