travel down vest

The Best Travel Vest for Women: 15 Cozy Reader Picks

Backpacking , FASHION , Sweaters & Jackets , Travel Clothing

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Do you need a little extra warmth on your next trip to fight the cold winter or cool spring weather? TFG readers recommend their favorite travel vest womens styles!

Travel Vests

Written By: Tae Haahr

Table Of Contents

A vest is an excellent addition to your travel wardrobe. They help keep you warm when you’re outdoors, easy to layer so you can adjust your temperature, and many of them are built to be packable—they can be folded up into a bag!

But there are a ton of vests out there on the market. Some are great for a chilly outdoor hike, others perfect for a night on safari . With so many options out there, we asked TFG readers to share their top picks so you can make your own choice!

What Are the Best Womens Vests for Travel?

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Quince

Quince Lightweight Travel Vest

The Quince lightweight down vest is a huge fave in the TFG community. This light vest is a chic option that’s made to be worn everywhere! 

It’s warm yet slim, with a stretchy hem and armholes for a comfy and extra warming fit, while side pockets and a zip closure add to the function. Plus, it’s incredibly light and packable, so it’s easy to take with you and pull out whenever needed. 

This womens long vest is designed to be layered, so it’s great for everything from freezing winters to that awkward transition between seasons. And on those colder days, you can zip the neck up for some extra protection!

Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Amazon 

32 Degrees Ultra-Lightweight Packable Down Vest

If you’re looking for a cozy vest for those cool-weather outings, then the 32 Degrees Vest  is a great choice. It comes in several different colors to match your ideal look. It is “perfect for layering and very packable.”

TFG readers love this vest, with one saying, “I love these packable vests—I wear them at work in the winter for layering. Took one to Europe and wore it in Ireland … had one in my bag in NYC and put it on when it suddenly got chilly under my denim jacket. Such a great item.”

It comes in sizes XS-XXL and if down isn’t your thing, 32 Degrees also offer this non-down alternative vest too.

These are the most lightweight denim jackets according to TFG readers!

Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Amazon | Eddie Bauer

Eddie Bauer Puffer Vests for Women – CirrusLite

Eddie Bauer down vests come recommended by TFG readers due to the fact that it’s easy to pack into a carrying bag. It’s water-repellent and machine washable and will help you keep warm in the cold weather. 

This vest comes in several different colors. It has zip pockets, stand-up collar, and elasticized cuffs. One TFG reader shares, “Eddie Bauer packable vest is a great option. I love it.”

You’ll want to look your best when you travel! Read my travel tips to Pack Light Stylishly !

Eddie Bauer Fireside Plush Vest

The fleece Eddie Bauer vest is perfect for warding off the cold while you’re out-and-about. It’s a terrific choice if you want to layer, but it’s still soft and thick enough to keep it cozy.

TFG readers love these fleece vests for women. One shares, “ Coziest vest ever! Looks great worn with my tshirts , sweatshirts , sweaters , and flannel. Great layer for crisp fall weather! .”

These are the most fashionable fleece jackets recommended by our readers!

Shop: Amazon  | Columbia Sizes: XXS-XXL Regular | XS-XL Petite | 1X-3X Plus

Columbia Benton (Plus Size Women’s Vests Available)

Columbia makes one of the best women’s vests for fall. It comes in 32 colors and is made of 100% polyester fleece. You can get the Columbia Women’s Benton Springs Vest in sizes XS-XL, petite XSP-XLP, and plus sizes 1X-3X. It features two zippered side pockets, a full zip closure, and a collared neck.

Readers say to add this to your list of women’s spring vests. One says “I wear my vest constantly.” Another reader adds, “I have a fleece vest and wear it all the time in the fall or early spring with a thin lining sleeve so I can push the sleeves up if needed.”

Our readers share their top picks for lightweight packable rain jackets , perfect for your next trip!

Shop Land’s End: Sizes XS-XL Regular |  1X-3X Plus

Lands’ End Packable Light Vest

Lands’ End makes warm vests for ladies to wear on their next outdoor venture. It’s filled with down to give you a warm and layerable piece of clothing. This is a longer vest that hits below your hips, but it has a two-way zipper so you can wear it closed to be more cozy or open when the weather lets up.

One TFG reader shares, “Have a Lands’ End tunic length packable down vest. It’s warm enough with some butt coverage and goes with anything dressy to casual. I can pack it into its own pocket. To pack it, the key is to just keep rolling and squeezing the air out.”

Readers love these cashmere sweaters for their polished and timeless look, incredible warmth, and versatility.

Shop Sizes XXS-3X:   Athleta

Athleta Downtown Women’s Quilted Vest

If you’re looking for a more fashionable style, then look no further than this Athleta Water Resistant Downtown Puffer Vest . It’s a quilted vest that features side panel stitching and a flattering curved hem to give a neat silhouette. This is a warm gilet that you’ll turn to from spring, right through to fall.

Our readers share their favorite brands for the best travel blazer !

Shop: Amazon  | Columbia Sizes: XS-XXL Regular | 1X-3X Plus

Columbia Puffy Vests for Women

The Columbia Women’s Heavenly Vest  is one of the best puffer vests for women on the market. It’s great to layer while you’re out on the trail. And it’s lightweight and thin so you can stick it under your heavier jacket.

TFG readers love these women’s winter vests because they’re quite warm. One reader shares, “Love Columbia with Omni Heat on the inside. I hate being cold!” The heat technology is a brilliant addition to colder weather travel, especially if you’re spending a lot of time outside.

Read this post to learn about some of our favorite winter jackets for travel!

Shop Sizes XS-3XL: Amazon  | The North Face

The North Face Puffy Women’s Travel Vest with Pockets

If you’re looking for comfortable and warm down vests, look no further than The North Face Women’sThermoball . It’s a quality product that’s both lightweight and made of superior material. Plus, it has a zippered closure to keep you warm.

One TFG reader shares that it is “great if you’re at the outdoorsy end of the market.” Overall, a high quality that looks flattering, and you can get it in 10 colors.

See our readers’ picks for the best packable down jacket for travel!

Shop Sizes S-XXL: SCOTTeVEST |   Amazon  

Scottevest Warm Womens Vests with RFID

The Scottevest RFID Vest comes highly recommended by TFG readers due to its 18 different pockets where you can store items in as you’re out and about. One reader does warn that “it’s heavy even without much in it. But having a vest with pockets is great.”

One reader comments that this vest was invaluable on her summer trip to Scotland because they appreciated “the freedom of not needing a purse.”

It’s great to layer with it, one reader shares, “I’ve loaded the thing up with budget airlines to bypass weight limits and such to get through security and on the plane. No one weighs it!” This comes in sizes S-XXL .

Read this post on how to pack a bulky winter jacket in a suitcase!

Shop Sizes XS-3XL: Amazon | The North Face

The North Face Aconcagua Down Vest

TFG readers love this brand and this classic  North Face puffer vest is a comfortable and nice-looking puffer and it’s equipped with lots of insulation, making it an ideal layer. One reviewer shares, “ This vest is super lightweight and the material is very soft and flexible and this vest fits true to size. I’m so happy with this purchase!”

Shop Sizes XXS-XXL: Uniqlo 

Uniqlo Women Ultralight Down Vest

The Uniqlo ultralight vest can be stored into a small carrying pouch, making it super easy to pack and bring along on your next trip. It’s made of durable and water-repellent coating. This puffer vest, while packable, definitely has all the hallmarks of being warm, with a 640 fill power, or more. 

One TFG reader shares, “I’ve got a Uniqlo vest that I’ve worn under my leather jacket for extra warmth when out and about. It’s great for travel since it compresses down to nothing, and since I got it in burgundy, it spices up my wardrobe.” Another reader adds, “Can’t believe how warm it kept me.”

Check out our selections of lightweight fall jackets for your next trip!

Shop Sizes XS-XXL:  Amazon

BALEAF Women’s Lightweight  Vest with Hidden Pockets

The BALEAF softshell vest has an internal pocket to hide your favorite valuable items. Made from  wind proof and water resistance fabric, this women’s vest jacket can effectively keep you dry all-day . Plus, the added high collar helps block the wind and keeps you warmer longer.

TFG readers adore this piece, with one sharing, “Love my BALEAF vest. Super comfy and keeps me warm without getting too hot.” You can get it in 6 colors too so there is a style for everyone.

These are the most packable and beautiful cardigans that you’ll want for your next trip!

Shop L.L.Bean: Sizes XXS-XL Regular & Petite | 1X-3X Plus

L.L. Bean Fleece Light Weight Vest (Petite and Plus Sizes Available)

The L.L.Bean fleece vest is slightly-fitted, easy to layer, and one of the most popular warm weather vests, due to the PrimaLoft insulation and the outer layer is water-resistant.

One TFG reader shares, “This vest is my go-to when I travel. It has two zippered pockets that are roomy, and is also long enough for me to wear it with leggings, is pretty wrinkle-proof, and has a zip-off hood. I have two and wear them all the time.”

Shop Sizes 0-14: Lululemon 

Lululemon Pack It Down Vest

The Lululemon Down for It All vest is a great addition to your travel wardrobe. It is a water-resistant model using Glyde fabric. It has an easy-access pocket, plus a secret hidden one, so you can hide your credit cards and such while traveling. And it packs into a handy sack. 

One TFG reader shares, “Can’t go wrong with Lululemon.” It comes in three cute colors, including lunar rock, chianti, and black, so you can truly make your personal style shine.

Wondering what to wear on a rainy day when traveling? Check out this post !

Product Comparison Chart

[wpsm_comparison_table id=”196″ class=”center-table-align”]

Compass Rose Packing Cubes

How to Pack Your Vests

Many of our readers use packing cubes to roll up and organize their clothes. Compass Rose packing cubes allow you to do so by number and color so you know where you packed everything, even when you use the cubes to separate outfits. Learn more in the video below.

Learn about our hacks with packing cubes in this video !

We also put together a five-part YouTube series showing the different methods of using packing cubes for travel. If you use this specific packing strategy, packing cubes can also compress your belongings. This is the secret to traveling carry-on only!

What’s your favorite travel vest? Share and comment below!

For more travel jackets, please read:

• Best Winter Parkas
• Classic Trench Jackets 
• Cozy Women’s Wool Coats 
• Most Recommended Waterproof Jackets for Every Adventure

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The Best Insulated Vest

By Liz Thomas and Jenni Gritters

When you want to add a little more warmth but are seeking greater freedom of movement than a jacket allows, a vest is the perfect cozy addition.

To find the best insulated vest to keep you warm on your most active days, we sent 22 adventurers with 25 vests to nine states and two countries.

After all of those adventures, we’ve determined that the Patagonia Down Sweater Vest ( men’s and women’s ) is the best down vest both for technical performance and for everyday commuter or office use.

Everything we recommend

Patagonia Women’s Down Sweater Vest

The best women’s down vest.

This is one of the warmest vests we tested, with strong construction that stands up to tough use.

Buying Options

Patagonia Men’s Down Sweater Vest

The best men’s down vest.

Montbell Thermawrap Vest Men’s

A synthetic option for men.

If you prefer synthetic insulation over down, this vest is our choice. It stays warm even when wet, and the slimmer profile works great either for layering under outerwear or as a top layer.

Montbell Thermawrap Vest Women’s

A synthetic option for women.

This is the same great vest as the men’s version but in women’s sizes.

Budget pick

REI Co-op 650 Down Vest 2.0 - Men’s

A stylish, inexpensive vest.

This budget vest is half the price of our other picks, but it’s nearly as warm and still well constructed.

REI Co-op 650 Down Vest 2.0 - Women’s

This is the same model as the men’s version but with a slimmer fit, and it comes in additional colors.

REI Co-op 650 Down Vest 2.0 - Women’s Plus Sizes

This vest comes in extended sizes, making it an even more appealing option.

The Patagonia Down Sweater Vest (in men’s and women’s versions) is a warm, stylish choice for people who want to wear a vest while walking the dog, running errands in urban areas, hanging out in cool temps, and engaging in outdoor adventures. The Patagonia vest’s stitching is some of the strongest we found. And the vest has a tough, ripstop nylon shell (in 2022, the company switched to a ripstop nylon made from recycled fishing nets), which minimizes insulation loss. The Patagonia vest comes in a variety of colors, and its front pockets are located right where your hands fall, so they’re well positioned for keeping them warm. Due to the 800-fill-power down, this vest kept us warm, even on the coldest days—in fact, it’s one of the warmest options we tested. In past years, we didn’t like the men’s version: The fit was boxy, and reviewers noted that it wasn’t great for layering. But in 2022, Patagonia updated the Down Sweater Vest (and jacket) line, and the designers fixed this fit problem, allowing for easier layering and a more flattering look. The remodeled vest feels slightly warmer (the company says it added 27% more down), but it’s still lightweight and durable.

If you plan to hike in cold, wet climates, or you’re looking for an option that isn’t down, the Montbell Thermawrap Vest (in men’s and women’s versions) is our favorite synthetic model. With its Exceloft filling, the Thermawrap vest strikes an ideal temperature balance, keeping active people warm but not making them so hot that they overheat. When it’s raining or snowing, the shell’s fabric repels wind and droplets. But even when the vest gets wet, the synthetic insulation will still keep you warm. Since it isn’t as puffy as our top picks, the Thermawrap can work as both a midlayer and a top layer (it fits under a jacket). And it looks sleek, whether you’re out on the trail or commuting to work. In 2022, Montbell redesigned this vest to be reversible, and it narrowed the fit just slightly. We didn’t notice any huge differences in functionality, and the vest still fits nicely under a jacket or over a base layer.

REI has released an updated version of this pick (for women and men ). We’ll be testing this new model and will update with our results.

The REI Co-op 650 Down Vest 2.0 (which comes in men’s , women’s , and women’s plus versions) is an ideal budget option for people who want a down vest to wear for commuting, urban walks, and the occasional outdoor adventure. The REI Co-op vest, which has 650-fill-power down, is as warm or warmer than all but our top pick (and it’s less than half the price). This vest comes in a range of sizes, for many body types, and due to the slightly boxy fit, adding layers beneath it is quite easy. That said, the price cuts were evident in its wider baffles and the fact that feathers started emerging from the seams after only a day of use (a sign that the vest might become less warm over time, as it loses insulation). And despite having a DWR (durable water repellent) coating, this vest still isn’t great at repelling water, so it’s not ideal for rainy climates—once the vest is wet, it loses its warmth. Still, we think that it’s a decent option for the price; several of our testers even ranked this vest as their favorite option providing “just enough” warmth.

The research

Why you should trust us, when should you wear a vest instead of a jacket, how to layer with a vest, how we picked, how and where we tested, our pick: patagonia down sweater vest, also great: montbell thermawrap vest, budget pick: rei co-op 650 down vest 2.0, other good vests, the competition, care and maintenance, what to look forward to.

To find the best puffy vests, we asked cool-weather climbers, commuters, cross-country cyclists, hikers, a curler, backcountry skiers, and an ICU nurse what they wanted in a vest for both work and play. Our sources included:

• Brandon Lampley , a rock climber, mountaineer, and review editor at OutdoorGearLab at the time of the interview, who has biked across the country to raise awareness for several nonprofits doing development work in Nepal.
• Manasseh Franklin , a Laramie, Wyoming–based backcountry skier, mountain biker, and former certified technical rock-climbing guide whose writing has appeared in Alpinist and Rock and Ice magazines.
• Maya Rosenzweig , a San Francisco Bay Area–based ICU nurse and distance backpacker who wears vests both indoors and outdoors.
• Jayme Moye , a Nelson, British Columbia–based recreational curler and award-winning travel and outdoor writer .
• Jim McDannald , a runner, podiatrist, and assistant coach of track and cross-country at the Université du Québec à Montréal at the time of our interview.

Liz Thomas wrote the first iteration of this guide when she was a staff writer on Wirecutter’s outdoors team; she started wearing insulated vests as a rock climber in Yosemite a decade ago and found that they translated well to outdoor activities and everyday life. Since then, she has hiked more than 15,000 miles on long trails and once held the women’s unassisted speed record on the Appalachian Trail (hiking 2,181 miles from Georgia to Maine in 80 days 13 hours). She teaches Backpacker magazine’s online Thru-Hiking 101 class and wrote Long Trails: Mastering the Art of the Thru-Hike .

Freelance journalist and frequent Wirecutter contributor Jenni Gritters updated this guide, testing the newest versions from 2020 and then conducting testing again in 2022. Jenni has a decade of experience writing about health, the outdoors, parenting, and purchasing. She has covered products ranging from headlamps , down jackets , and trekking poles to backpacking tents and baby swings. She grew up in the wet and cold cities of Boston and Seattle, and she currently lives in central Oregon with her son, daughter, husband, and dog. Jenni spends her summers hiking, her falls and springs tromping through the rain, and her winters wearing snowshoes. So she’s a pro at evaluating the best—and worst—winter gear.

In the past, Jenni contributed gear reviews to the REI Co-op Journal, which is an editorially independent publication run by the REI Co-op. Liz was an outdoor ambassador to about a dozen companies, including Montbell, which provided her with gear from November 2015 until she joined the Wirecutter staff, from 2017–18. To keep the findings of this review objective, we based our conclusions on quantitative data (including weight, compression size, length of torso) and on qualitative data from third-party testers (who had no affiliation with any of the gear companies mentioned in this guide). The findings for this guide were also reviewed and affirmed by two additional Wirecutter outdoors editors who’ve never had any type of professional relationship with REI, Montbell, or other companies mentioned here.

A vest has some practical advantages over a jacket: It weighs less, allows for added mobility, and takes up less space (which is nice for travelers who are limited to a carry-on). Also, a vest typically costs less than a jacket.

If you need warmth primarily when you’re not moving (such as back at the campsite after a day of play or while watching a sports game), stick with an insulated jacket . But if you anticipate drastic temperature changes on an outdoor adventure, or you plan to be super-active (which can translate to high volumes of sweat), choose an insulated vest. In cool weather, insulated vests are masters of thermoregulation (or keeping the body from overheating or getting too cold) when either the ambient temperature or the amount of heat you generate through exercise changes.

An arms-free insulating layer offers benefits to athletes, especially when it comes to mobility. Brandon Lampley, a Yosemite big-wall rock climber with several Himalayan first ascents, told us, “Sleeves get in the way. Elbow and forearm fabric wear out quick.” He added that many climbers favor vests because of the maximum range of motion in the shoulder.

He also typically uses a vest while cycling, as a “Goldilocks layer” for interval training or exercising on rolling hills. When the intensity level of your activity drops, sweat can chill the body to dangerous levels. Lampley added, “I’m super-sweaty, and if I want the same clothes for uphills and downhills, the vest is great. On the bike, I don’t want to stop every 5 or 10 minutes [to take off a layer] on the uphills, and I don’t want to be frozen on the downhills, either.” Many athletes, including Lampley, told us the arms made a jacket hard to remove when you’re on the go. With a vest, your core stays warm when you’re going downhill, but you can still let off some heat through your arms.

Those mobility advantages also translate to the workplace. “We physically move people and manipulate equipment all the time,” San Francisco Bay Area intensive care unit nurse Maya Rosenzweig told us. “A vest has more mobility than a jacket, so it’s more functional.”

Vests are designed to be worn over a base layer . The base layer creates a temperature-regulated bubble against your skin, and the vest keeps your core warm. This is important “because your body puts a premium on protecting the vital organs over the appendages,” said Jim McDannald, a podiatrist and an assistant running coach at the Université du Québec à Montréal at the time of our interview.

Although insulated vests lack arms, they still keep your arms warm by limiting shunting (the process of blood leaving the appendages or the skin to keep your organs functioning in the cold). When the body doesn’t need to work as hard to keep you warm, it can dedicate resources to other activities, including performance.

Although breathability is less important in a vest than in a base layer, an insulated vest should not trap your sweat. You can also layer your insulated vest with a wind jacket. To stretch the temperature range of the vest-plus-base-layer combo without having to add a jacket, put on a hat, gloves, and warm socks.

A vest also works well under rain gear. When you spend enough time in the rain, water creeps under your sleeves to the layer beneath. If you wear a down jacket, those sleeves become useless for insulation and warmth. But with a vest, your core will stay warm, without the worry of wet wrists or sleeves.

To determine which brands and models to test, we talked with experts, considered the most popular vests at outdoor stores, scoured outdoor and fashion media, and looked through customer reviews. We identified over 50 different vests that looked promising. From there, we narrowed the field to 25 contenders during several seasons. Then we chose which vests to test based on the following criteria:

• Price: We looked for vests that were available in both men’s and women’s versions for approximately $150 or less. (Since the first iteration of this guide, prices have gone up, and some of our picks are now closer to the $200 range.) Some of our vests tend to retail for more but are on sale with enough regularity that we decided to include them.
• Light to midweight models: Our experts steered us away from heavyweight vests. If you’re moving around, the best vest will keep your core warm but won’t leave you wanting to take it off. Chances are good that if the weather is cold enough for a heavier vest, you’ll want arms with it. So then you’re better off wearing a jacket.
• 600 to 800 fill power (for down vests): By eliminating vests with a lower fill power (a measure of how much volume, in cubic inches, 1 ounce of down will fill), we found vests with better warmth-to-weight ratios.
• Hand-warmer pockets: These two pockets are positioned on either side of the body where the arms fall, allowing you to stuff your cold hands into them.
• Extra features: We looked for a full zipper and a waist cinch to reduce draft (which all of the vests except the Uniqlo model had).
• Positive online customer reviews: We looked for models with more than four out of five stars, when available.
• Ethical sourcing : We preferred vests that contained down certified by the Responsible Down Standard (RDS), which aims to ensure a company sourced its feathers from birds who weren’t live-plucked. Global Traceable Down Standard (Global TDS) is another down certification program that both guarantees the safety of the birds and also audits the farms distributing feathers. At the moment, most down products—including most of the vests in this guide—are certified through RDS.

Down or synthetic?

An age-old debate among those who love the outdoors is the question of down versus synthetic. Wirecutter writers have researched this debate for years (you can read more on the topic in our other guides, including those for sleeping bags , puffy blankets , comforters , and bed pillows ).

Down has the best warmth-to-weight ratio of any insulation, and down vests can be more compact, durable, and soft. Plus, they typically look more stylish than their synthetic counterparts. Our testers generally thought down felt cozier and more luxurious.

Synthetics, on the other hand, stay warm even when wet, making them ideal for outdoor adventurers. They’re functional in light weather or under a soaked-through rain jacket. And we liked that after a hot climb with a backpack, back sweat dried more quickly with a synthetic vest than a down one. Synthetic models also tend to be more durable than down. And, of course, synthetic vests don’t involve killing birds.

Ultimately, which type of insulation you choose depends on your budget, how you use your vest, where you take it, how long you expect it to last, and whether or not you choose to wear down. We’ve included both down and synthetic vest options in this guide.

Over the course of five years, our 22 testers took 25 vests to nine states and two countries to put them to the test, over several seasons. From visiting waterfalls in Iceland to playing cornhole in Michigan, our testers evaluated these vests across many different climates and scenarios, including:

• Thru-hiking the Pacific Northwest Trail , a 1,200-mile-long backpacking trip from the Continental Divide in Glacier National Park to the Pacific Ocean in Olympic National Park, through Montana, Idaho, and Washington.
• Hiking and sightseeing in Iceland, including a visit to Gullfoss Waterfall.
• Backpacking in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park, in California , and in Sespe Wilderness , Los Padres National Forest, north of Ojai, California.
• Playing cornhole, hanging out, and hiking in and near Warren Dunes State Park in Michigan , and in Keystone, Colorado. Dog walking and commuting in Chicago, Sacramento, Seattle, and Bend and Portland, Oregon.
• Eclipse watching and sightseeing in Corvallis, Oregon, and on Mt. Shasta in California.
• Walking along Lake Sacajawea Park and hanging out in Longview, Washington.
• Camping on the Olympic Peninsula, at Kalaloch Beach .
• Cycling and commuting in San Francisco.
• Exploring Orcas Island in Washington’s San Juan Islands.

We used the following criteria to decide which vests were the best:

The right temperature: We expected the vests to keep us warm but not too warm, regardless of whether we were moving. A good vest should keep your core warm but not make you so hot that you want to take it off when you’re exercising. We looked for breathable vests that were quick-drying enough that when we stopped moving, we weren’t chilled by back sweat (gross). To supplement our testers’ subjective opinions on which vest was the warmest, we used a thermal-imaging infrared camera to detect the amount of heat testers generated while wearing different vests.

Fit and comfort: An insulated vest is designed for layering over a base layer. It should fit close to the body, with room for a base layer or (if you go up a size) a sweater or sweatshirt. A comfortable vest won’t restrict your range of motion in the back or shoulders. It shouldn’t pinch under your arms or anywhere else. If a vest isn’t fitted at the waist, it will bunch and ride up, exposing your lower back to cold air; for that reason, we also preferred vests with a long torso.

Versatility between performance and everyday use: If you can buy only one insulated vest, you’ll want it to excel as a technical performance layer but translate to daily use, too. An insulated vest should work well in the outdoors but not have so many performance features that it feels fussy when you wear it at the bar. A versatile vest can switch between outdoor use and commuting, layering under both ski jackets and suit coats.

Pockets: Good pockets turn a vest into a wearable purse or lumbar pack. We tested whether the vests’ pockets were deep enough to hold an iPhone, a wallet, keys, sunglasses, a point-and-shoot camera, and two Probars. After hearing sob stories from folks who’d lost their phones out of pockets, we decided that a good vest pocket should be able to hold its contents even when you forget to zip. To verify this, we played countless games of cornhole with our phones and wallets stashed in unzipped pockets. The best pockets are angled, so even if you forget to zip, you won’t find yourself phone-less. Hand-warming pockets are positioned where your hands are—not on your sides or too close to your stomach. We liked vests that had internal pockets, which helped us to keep phone batteries warm and to store essentials when we didn’t want bulkiness (such as while wearing a climbing harness).

Durability: Each vest went through standardized rough treatment. We shook each one 10 times and then crammed it into its pocket or stuff sack, after which we shook the compacted vest 10 times to mimic jostling in a briefcase or backpack. We took each vest out of the stuff sack and repeated those steps 10 times. By the end of the experiment, feathers were flying. We also noted any threads that loosened or any synthetic insulation that came through the seams.

Weatherproofing: A vest works as part of a layering system but can perform as an outer layer in mild weather. Even though a vest isn’t a windbreaker, when you’re wearing it as an outer layer, you shouldn’t feel a breeze on your back. We also preferred vests that could work in both dry and moist climates. A versatile vest can repel a drizzle and snow flurries, giving you the option to avoid wearing hot and clammy shells or a rain jacket in anything but the most torrential weather. We tested the vests’ waterproofing using a protocol similar to what we used for our rain pants guide ; this was based on advice from Susan Sokolowski, director of the Sport Product Design Program and a professor at the University of Oregon.

Can be packed away: For those times when you aren’t wearing your vest, you’ll need to carry it. We preferred vests that were lightweight and could compress to a compact size. Some vests zipped into their own pockets. Others came with stuff sacks (which, because they can be lost, aren’t as good). The poorest-rated vests in this regard were a flopping mess that either didn’t zip or didn’t fit into their pockets. The best stowaway systems were easy to figure out and lined with fleece, for conversion into a pillow.

Good zippers: A vest’s zippers should be big enough that they are easy to open and close, even with cold, numb, or mittened hands. Whether the company calls it a chin guard, a zipper guard, or a zipper garage, the design needs to include some fabric over the top of the zipper to prevent your chin and neck from chafing.

The Patagonia Down Sweater Vest ( men’s and women’s ) is one of the warmest and puffiest vests we tried. It’s a cozy, stylish vest to wear either around town or on outdoor adventures. Our testers were impressed with the quality of materials and tightly sewn baffling, which stopped it from shedding down. It kept us warm even on blustery days of hiking, car camping, and skiing, and it could be layered over or under fleeces and jackets.

None of the vests we tested had poor stitching, but on the Down Sweater Vest, the stitches were tighter and straighter. This vest also scored among the best in our durability tests, with only the tip of a feather sticking out from a seam. After we compressed the vest, its puffiness bounced back quicker than on most of the other down vests we tried. Patagonia uses a responsible-down-sourcing program, certified to the Responsible Down Standard . This vest’s 800-fill-count down was among the highest fill count of any vest we tested, and it kept us warm throughout the day. According to the company, the 2022 redesign added 27% more down to the mix, too, though in terms of warmth, the new women’s model felt just like the one from 2020. And the recycled-polyester shell (which is made from old fishing nets, as of 2022) performed well in our tests of wind and water resistance.

Patagonia’s baffles (the tubular-looking “ribs” that separate and hold the down in place) are thinner and more numerous than those on many of the other down vests we considered. Down-vest manufacturers often cut corners by constructing fewer baffles (this is not as important on synthetics). But because Patagonia has added so many baffles to its Down Sweater Vest, this vest manages to minimize cold spots and keeps a uniform warmth. All of those baffles help with mobility, too.

The pockets on this vest are among the best of those on any vest we tried, due to their large size and placement. They were “placed and angled right where [my] hands fall,” one tester said. During past rounds of testing, we disliked the men’s model of this vest because it felt too narrow and bunchy, which led to oddly placed pockets and a constrictive fit. But the 2022 remodel fixes those problems. We liked the generous internal Napoleon-chest-pocket zips, too. Maneuvering the big (but not too big) YKK zippers with mittened or numb hands is easy, and a zipper garage keeps your chin protected. As for weight, the Down Sweater Vest is middle-of-the-pack compared with the other vests we tried: A men’s vest weighs 8.9 ounces.

Previously, testers complained that the Down Sweater Vest had a shorter torso than some of the other vests we tested, so it would ride up and expose the small of their back when they wore a backpack. But the 2022 remodel has added an inch or two of length, and the drawcord hem at the hips also creates a more secure fit.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

The Down Sweater Vest doesn’t come in as expansive a range as we’d like. If you’re looking for a longer and wider option, the budget REI Co-op 650 vest offers more coverage. This Patagonia vest also doesn’t fit in its own pocket like some of the other vests we tested, but it does pack down small enough.

If you’re headed to a damp place, or you need warmth during highly active adventures, the Montbell Thermawrap (in men’s and women’s versions) is an ideal choice. It features a still-warm-when-wet synthetic insulation and a thin shell fabric that repels raindrops. The Thermawrap is less puffy than our down picks, and we found it was equally comfy as a top layer or tucked beneath a jacket for extra warmth. Even after some rough handling, this vest showed no signs of wear.

The Thermawrap was one of the lightest and most compact vests in our lineup. On our scales, the men’s medium weighed 221 grams, and the women’s medium weighed 197 grams, making this vest the second lightest of the synthetics we tried (at 218 grams, the Arc’teryx Atom vest was just barely lighter than the men’s Thermawrap, but it wasn’t as warm). Compressed, the Thermawrap is the size of a Nalgene bottle, so it’s also easy to carry when you’re not wearing it.

On mountain backpacking trips and cool beach walks, the Thermawrap did the best job of helping us balance between overheating on the uphills and overcooling on the downhills. Unlike The North Face’s Nuptse , which tended to overheat, Montbell’s Thermawrap kept our testers the right amount of toasty. The Thermawrap vest also blocked the wind and kept us warm enough during snack breaks, something that couldn’t be said for competing synthetics such as the Arc’teryx Atom or the Patagonia Nano Puff .

During our water-repellency tests, the Thermawrap vest’s shell fabric was among the most effective at making droplets bead and roll off, instead of letting them penetrate the material. Our tests confirmed this: During a windy, rainy hike without our rain gear on Washington’s Mount Baker, water was slow to penetrate. When it did, the Thermawrap vest was still warm when wet, compared with the soggy and deflated-looking Montbell down vest we tried at the same time.

When water did penetrate the Thermawrap vest (like when we soaked it in the wash), it dried more quickly than most others (it was almost dry after two spin cycles and totally dry after another 20 minutes in the dryer on extra-low heat). With all of the vests we tried, when we wore them under a rain jacket, condensation or a soak-through rain made them moist (that’s the rain jacket’s fault, not the vest’s). But even in that situation, we found that the Thermawrap vest dried faster than the down competitors and most of the synthetic-insulation models we tested.

Our testers also found that the Thermawrap vest fit true to size. Most testers liked the cut and said the Thermawrap vest stayed put and didn’t bunch in the back or chest, even when they were moving about vigorously. And most testers liked the long length of the torso (which measured 28 inches for a medium, the longest among the vests we tested). In 2022, Montbell redesigned this vest to be reversible and narrowed the fit just slightly. However, we didn’t notice any huge differences in functionality, and the vest still fit nicely under a jacket or over a base layer. We also found that compared with the material of the other vests, the Thermawrap’s stretchy shell fabric provided some mobility (though not as much as the Arc’teryx Atom, which had stretch side paneling). Montbell produces men’s and women’s versions of the Thermawrap with that same kind of uninsulated stretch paneling, but we didn’t test them.

We also appreciated the two generous hand-warmer pockets, with YKK zippers big enough to work even with numb or mittened hands. Each hand-warmer pocket fits an older model iPhone (the same size as the current SE ), a camera, sunglasses, a checkbook-sized wallet, keys, and two Probars. To confirm that the pockets were angled well enough to keep their contents safe, we played a 21-point game of cornhole with our pockets full and unzipped. At the end of the game, the winner still had a phone in her Thermawrap vest pocket.

After our rough durability tests, the Thermawrap and the Arc’teryx Atom alone showed no signs of wear. Both designs had fewer seams than the other vests, reducing the number of needle holes where insulation could exit or water could seep in.

The Thermawrap has a boxier fit than some other vests we tested, though the 2022 update has a slimmer fit, making it easier to layer over. Still, the side panels aren’t as contoured, so most testers found this vest to be less flattering than our top pick. Though they said this vest fit well, one tester of the men’s version found the upper back constricting when he made kettlebell motions. As with all of the vests, if the sizing isn’t right, you’ll see bunching even if you cinch the waist cord. But with the Thermawrap, this bunching is more pronounced than on our Patagonia down pick.

Synthetic insulation won’t last as long as down. Each time you compress and compact your synthetic layer, the microfibers lose their resilience. Still, if you find something wrong with your vest, know that Montbell offers a lifetime warranty program for the original owner that covers manufacturing defects, and it has a repair program that covers other fixes for a reasonable rate.

Note: REI has released an updated version of this pick (for women and men ). We’ll be testing this new model and will update with our results.

If you need a vest for everyday errands and the occasional outdoor adventure, the REI Co-op 650 Down Vest 2.0 (in men’s , women’s , and women’s plus ) will do the job for less than half the price of any of our other picks. It is warm enough to get you through cold days, and it’s made with responsible down standard (RDS) down . It also fits a range of body types.

We didn’t expect much from this basic vest, especially since it was half the price of most of the other vests in our testing pool. But we were pleasantly surprised by the fit, warmth, and extra features. Although many budget vests don’t contain information about their down count or provenance, REI uses ethically sourced down in these vests (as do the makers of our other down picks). This is a 650-fill-power down vest, and it’s slightly cooler than our top pick from Patagonia . But we found the 650 fill to be just right on cool shoulder-season days, on long ferry rides, and even on chilly camping trips. We didn’t overheat, but we were grateful for the added core warmth.

The 650 Vest 2.0 is nearly as lightweight as our synthetic pick, and it easily packs down small into its own pocket, to about the size of a one-liter water bottle. We like that it comes in plus-size options for women and that the plus-size women’s vest is well made: Rather than simply adding another panel to make the vest wider, REI has constructed the vest with continuous baffles, which help seal in warmth and keep the insulation from bunching. The fit is a bit boxy compared with that of our other picks. So the REI vest is easy to layer under, but you likely won’t be able to fit another jacket on top of it. There are two simple yet large outer zip pockets and two inner pockets.

There are some features we missed in this lower-priced vest, compared with our other picks. After our camping trip, the down started leaking out along the jacket’s seams, with a feather here and a feather there every 10 minutes or so. This isn’t a huge problem at the outset, but it means that, over time, the 650 Vest 2.0 may become less reliable and could leave you colder, and the insulation may be patchy. Also, the zippers aren’t as sturdy as those on our top picks, and the REI zippers occasionally got stuck on the surrounding fabric. Unlike synthetic insulation (which continues to warm even when wet), on a snowy day down insulation may become clumpy (which will make it non-insulating).

You get what you pay for with the REI Co-op 650 Down Vest 2.0. It’s not fancy, but it’s definitely good enough for errands, cold-weather BBQs, football games, and the occasional hike. We think it’s the best among its budget-vest peers.

If you’re planning to go climbing or trail running: Consider the Arc’teryx Atom Vest ( men’s and women’s lightweight). We already liked this vest, but in 2023, Arc’teryx updated the women’s version, streamlining the fit even more and slightly cutting the price. And now we like it even better. Along the sides, this vest has non-insulated stretch paneling, which adds mobility and makes the vest more breathable. Like our pick from Montbell , this vest is durable and highly water-repellent, and it contains synthetic insulation, which stays warm even when wet. But the Atom vest isn’t as warm as the Montbell vest, and it doesn’t keep the wind out quite as well. Also, those side panels absorb water and dry more slowly than the rest of the vest—which may translate to a colder day out on the trails. Testers also didn’t like that they couldn’t stuff this vest into its own pocket and zip it. That said, many of our testers preferred the sleeker style of the Atom over the boxier Montbell. We’ll also be keeping an eye out for an updated men’s model.

If you’re a gram-counting ultralight backpacker: Consider the Montbell Superior Down Vest ( men’s and women’s ), a performance vest that packs down small and has a good warmth-to-weight ratio. But at 5½ ounces, it is probably too minimalist for most people. We didn’t notice any durability issues during our shake, wash, or use tests. But the vest’s 10-denier fabric won’t hold up to serious abuse as well as our picks’ higher-denier fabrics do. (Denier numbers show the fabric’s thread thickness, and this one is relatively low compared with those of some of the other vests we tested.) Montbell’s website says the company uses responsible down that does not come from live-plucking sources, but it is not third-party-certified like Patagonia’s down.

If you want something easy to pack: Check out the Arc’teryx Cerium Vest ( men’s and women’s ). Currently $300, it’s more expensive than our top pick, the Patagonia Down Sweater Vest . But it’s 2 ounces lighter—just 7 ounces total for the men’s vest—and it packs down smaller than any of the other vests we tested. It feels as warm as the Patagonia; it has an 850 down fill count—higher than most of the other vests we looked at. However, we prefer some features of the Patagonia vest that the Cerium doesn't offer, such as the larger zippers, which are easier to grasp. The Patagonia also has a slightly wider fit, making it easier to layer under; the Cerium’s fit is more tailored, as is typical for Arc’teryx. The Cerium’s sizing is also less inclusive than some other vests, including the REI Co-op 650 Down Vest . But we think the Cerium is a solid, well-made option for folks who prioritize packing ultra-light.

If you simply need an additional layer on a budget: Consider the Uniqlo Ultra Light Down Vest ( men’s and women’s ), which offers back-up warmth with virtually no weight at a price that sometimes drops as low as $30. The company offers no information about the down count, and the construction is simple—no liners around the armholes, and wide baffling with feathers already emerging—but the basics are there.

If you want something for nights on the town: We like the women’s Outdoor Research Coldfront Vest , if you can find it. It appears to have been replaced by a second version , which we haven’t had the chance to test. This 700-fill-count down vest was one of the puffier options we tried. It doesn’t pack down as small as its competitors, but it comes with a cozy, adjustable hood and has a drop-waist design (with a drawcord hem) to cover your tush. The top of the vest contains diamond-shaped baffles, while the bottom half is made with horizontal baffles. Our testers appreciated this contoured construction, and they got many compliments when they wore it out in the world. Despite the differing baffle structure, the down seemed to stay in place as well. This vest is too bulky to be ideal for active outdoor adventures, and it’s certainly not even close to being the most waterproof or windproof option out there. But for a workday or casual dinner plans, we think this is an option you won’t regret adding to your closet.

If you like the style of our top pick but want brighter colors: Cotopaxi’s Fuego Down Vest (men’s and women’s ) is a solid choice for nearly the same price. The baffles vary in width from top to bottom, which can mean the down migrates a bit (and causes cold spots over time). And we found the stitching wasn’t quite as solid as on the Patagonia Down Sweater Vest ; every so often, a feather escaped. Otherwise, the Cotopaxi Fuego Down Vest is quite similar to our top pick in fit and design, with the benefit of a more expressive, bright color palette. The Fuego is made with 800-fill, RDS-certified down and has ripstop nylon lining, which proved to be both durable and waterproof. It weighs 8 ounces and packs down small. The pockets were a bit less cozy and the zippers got stuck slightly more often than on the Patagonia vest. But the pockets on the Cotopaxi were still better placed than those on many of the other vests we tested. Cotopaxi also donates 1% of proceeds toward climate change efforts each year.

L.L.Bean Men’s PrimaLoft Packaway Vest : Testers didn’t like this affordable synthetic-fill vest’s boxy fit—sizes ran large, and the armholes were too big. Although this model was among the most wind-resistant synthetic vests, the fabric wasn’t as soft as on other picks. This L.L.Bean vest does have the best stowaway system of any of the ones we tried: It fits into its own fleecy, labeled stowaway pocket, after which it can be used as a pillow.

Patagonia Men’s Nano Puff Vest : This popular, stylish vest was among the least puffy and least warm models we tested. It didn’t keep out the wind, either. Despite its synthetic design, it wasn’t durable: After six shakes, an insulating fiber popped out of this vest’s seam. Although the Nano Puff fit our testers true to size, some found the torso to be too short and thought the pockets could have been bigger (this vest doesn’t zip into its own pocket). For the price, you have better options.

Stio Men’s Pinion Down Vest : This vest simply didn’t feel as robust as our top picks. The baffles are quite thin, giving the vest less puff. That’s ideal for active adventures when you need flexibility and plan to layer, but it also means you won’t feel as warm when the wind kicks up, since there’s less down in each of the baffle segments. The 800-fill down is RDS-certified. And at a lightweight 8 ounces, this vest packs down small. It also stayed fairly waterproof on drizzly days.

Marmot Men’s Highlander Vest : This 700-fill down vest is not as warm as our top picks, and the hardware—especially the zippers—felt a bit cheap. We found ourselves fighting to get the zipper up and down, and the pockets weren’t as well placed as those on the other vests we tested. Also, the down is not certified as sustainable. The company says the down is specially treated to be “extra water-resistant.” We did find that it performed just fine on water tests, but not any better than the other vests on our list. The fit was also just fine; the Highlander vest ran true to size, and it was possible to layer over and under it. But compared with our picks, this option just isn’t quite as well made, durable, sustainable, or stylish.

Feathered Friends Men’s Eos Down Vest : We’d been waiting a while to try this vest, one of the more expensive options on our list. Feathered Friends has a good reputation when it comes to down products, especially sleeping bags, but we didn’t love the Eos vest. It was incredibly warm—made with 900-fill-power goose down. But the shell fabric was so thin that we could see the down under the surface, and the down tended to move around in clumps because of the wide baffles. The fit of the vest we tried was also huge and boxy, so we found layering to be difficult. However, some online reviewers mentioned that their vests were too small, so we think there may be some irregularity in the sizing. Water also soaked into the nylon shell quickly, so this vest is not a great option for wet days.

Outdoor Research Men’s Coldfront Down Vest : In previous iterations of this guide, we chose the men’s Outdoor Research Transcendent Down as our top pick because it was cozy, stylish, and it fit well and was well designed. The Coldfront replaces the Transcendent Down, and we still think the Coldfront is a decent option. But with its 700-fill count, it’s not as warm as our top pick. And compared with our top-pick, the Patagonia , or the Cotopaxi vest, the Coldfront has wider baffles; that means the down moves around more within the baffles, resulting in spotty warmth. The pockets are less comfortable because of their placement, and the zippers feel cheaper. Also, the men’s Coldfront has neither the stylish look of the women’s model nor the fun colors of the Transcendent Down version. Overall, this is a just-fine option. So since this vest and the Patagonia are fairly comparable in cost, we recommend considering our top pick instead.

The North Face Women’s Nuptse Vest : Our testers found the sizing ran large, and the fit was loose on this heavy vest. It was so puffy that it couldn’t fit into its own pockets. Similar to reviewers online, our testers found this vest to be too warm for outdoor exercise. When conditions were cold enough to justify its poofiness, we wanted a jacket instead of a vest.

Andrew Marc Women’s Quilted Vest : This budget synthetic vest felt heavy and plasticky. We also ran into some fit issues: Compared with the sizing of other vests we tried, this vest’s sizing ran much larger, it was boxy, and it tended to bunch. Our medium-size testers felt as if they were “drowning in the collar” of the size S version of this vest. The pockets were too small, with low-quality zippers, and the vest didn’t compress down well, either. It’s also a Costco exclusive, limiting who can buy it.

Lands’ End Ultralight Packable Down Vest : In theory, a vest that reaches to mid-thigh should keep you very warm. But in practice, the fit was off, with bunching and pinching in strange places and an overall boxy construction. The zipper was sticky, and the quality wasn’t up to snuff compared with that of other, similarly priced vests. We do like that this one comes in extended sizing .

Stio Women’s Pinion Down Vest : The biggest difference we found with the Pinion vest was in its baffles. The thin baffles were flexible for active adventures, but that meant we felt a little chillier than we did when wearing our top picks. The Pinion’s outer fabric felt a bit thinner than that of the other vests we tested, too. But it stayed dry enough on windy, wet days. And we appreciated that the vest is made with 800-fill-power, RDS-certified down.

Marmot Women’s Highlander Vest : Like the men’s option, this 700-fill-power down vest simply felt less well made than our top picks. The zippers were tough to move and plasticky, and the pockets weren’t as well placed. The waist flared out in a way that some of our testers found unflattering, and the less-warm down was not certified as sustainable. It performed just fine when sprinkled with water, and it did a decent job of keeping out wind, but we preferred the warmth of our top picks.

Feathered Friends Women’s Eos Down Vest : Despite being highly priced and made with 900-fill-power goose down (the highest fill count of any vest we tested), the Eos vest fell short on fit and consistency. Like the men’s version, the women’s had shell fabric that was so thin, we could see the down under the surface. The fit was also unflattering and wide, which reviewers and testers complained about. “I almost thought they were sending me men’s sizing,” one online reviewer said. Even with many layers underneath, this vest was simply far too large.

With the proper care, a down vest can last decades. You shouldn’t expect a synthetic vest to last as long , but with good maintenance its life can be extended. Regardless of whether you opt for down or synthetic, washing a vest can help restore its loft and performance.

The steps for washing a down or synthetic vest are similar, with a few exceptions:

• Use a front-loading washing machine. Top-loaders have an agitator system that can catch or rip lightweight performance fabrics.
• Close all of the zippers so loose sliders won’t catch on fabric. Check the pockets for forgotten lip balm or chocolate. These kinds of items are usually a minor annoyance when left in a pair of jeans, but they can damage performance materials.
• Set your machine to cold and delicate.
• Use a detergent made for the type of insulation in your vest.
• For synthetics: Use a synthetic-friendly detergent such as Gear Aid’s ReviveX Pro Cleaner , Nikwax’s Tech Wash , or Grangers Performance Wash . These detergents are designed not to leave a residue, which can reduce the breathability or loft of your vest’s insulation.
• For down: Use a down-friendly detergent like Gear Aid’s ReviveX Down Cleaner , Nikwax’s Down Wash Direct , or Grangers Down Wash . These detergents will not strip the down of the naturally occurring oils that help maintain its loft.
• Don’t use fabric softeners or conditioners.
• When you open the wash, your down vest may look like it’s ruined. Don’t worry! Wet down is heavier than dry down, so it can tug on the vest’s nylon shell. To prevent damage, carefully remove your down vest with both hands so you aren’t grabbing it by the nylon. (Imagine if you were trying to pull nylon fabric from under a rock: If the rock weighed too much, the fabric might rip.)
• Use a front-loading dryer. And use your hand to check the inside of the machine, to ensure there are no nicks or burrs, which can create hot spots capable of ripping or burning the fabric (we’ve seen this happen). Set the dryer to no heat or low heat. Don’t use dryer sheets.
• It doesn’t take long for a synthetic vest to dry, but be prepared to wait two-plus hours for a down vest. If you must use heat, check to confirm that no area is overheating. For down vests, some manufacturers advise adding clean tennis balls to the dryer to break down clumps. Stuff the balls in a sock—unless you want bright yellow-green dots on your vest. Otherwise, you can massage the down clumps with your hand. Synthetic vests don’t require the use of tennis balls or massaging.
• Don’t iron a vest.
• Do not store your vest in its stuff sack or stowaway pocket. This is okay to do when you’re traveling or on a trip, but over time storing a vest this way can break down the insulation to the point where it will never loft back. Instead, when you’re done using gear for the season, dry it completely, and store it in its lofted form in a cool, dry place.
• Restore the durable water repellent (DWR). An insulating vest isn’t supposed to repel water like a rain jacket does, but if you notice water isn’t beading as much as it used to, it’s time to restore the DWR . You should expect to do this every three to five washes . There are two home DWR maintenance and restoration methods: wash-in and spray-on. For insulating vests, several manufacturers recommend using spray-on only—you spray a treatment onto the material after washing but before drying. To spray a treatment onto a clean but still-wet garment, lay your vest on a flat surface. Use a spray-on DWR like Gear Aid ReviveX Durable Water Repellent or Nikwax TX Direct Spray-On , and be sure to spray from 6 inches away . Coat both sides of the vest, paying attention to high-friction areas, like near the armpits. The bottle's label should give you an idea of how much you need to spray to cover the vest. Heat activates the DWR, so dry with low heat.

In 2023, Arc’teryx updated and improved the women’s version of its Atom vest, which we list in our Other good vests section. The men’s version has not yet been updated, but once it has been, we will retest it too.

The latest version of this article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan. This article was originally published in 2017.

Brandon Lampley, rock climber, mountaineer, bike tourer, and review editor at GearLab , phone interview , October 15, 2017

Maya Rosenzweig, ICU nurse and distance hiker , phone interview , October 16, 2017

Manasseh Franklin, backcountry skier and mountain biker and a former certified technical rock-climbing guide , phone interview , October 16, 2017

Jim McDannald, runner, residency-trained physician, Wirecutter health and technology writer, and assistant coach of track and cross-country at the Université du Québec à Montréal , Slack interview , October 13, 2017

Jayme Moye, recreational curler and award-winning travel and outdoor writer , phone interview , November 13, 2017

Meet your guides

Jenni Gritters

Further reading

Gear for Foul-Weather Bike Commuting

by Wirecutter Staff

Hard-core bike commuters share seven items—from storm-worthy gloves to rugged tires—that keep them (and their stuff) safe and dry in the winter.

How to Play Outside More This Winter, According to Outdoor-School Teachers

by Rose Maura Lorre

The right gear—and attitude—can help you coax your kids (and yourself) into embracing the elements.

The Cold-Weather Running Gear You Need This Winter

by Ingrid Skjong

Dressing for winter runs takes preparation, but the right strategy (and gear) can help you stay warm, comfortable, and safe when temperatures plunge.

Getting Outside on a Rainy Day

by Kit Dillon

This is the gear we’d use during—and after—a rainy-day outing.

Top 12 Best Down Vests for Men and Women – Plus How to Choose

Down Vests are one of the latest trends amongst travelers and hikers looking for a stylish, yet practical piece of clothing to pack in their bags, and a good down vest can come in handy in a wide variety of situations.

The best down vests are somewhat of a halfway point between a full-on down jacket, giving you much more freedom. They can be a great accessory to keep you warm in cold conditions when you really just need one more added layer, or they can work as great items of clothing to wear when it’s not too cold, and yet it’s not too hot.

The best down vests are versatile, made from lightweight material and are designed to last in the extreme outdoors if you look after them correctly. While the best down vests may not be cheap, they should be seen as an investment in quality equipment.

To help you decide which are the best down vests for you, here’s our guide to the best products on the market.

Top 5 Best Down Vests

Table of Contents

Quick Answer: Best Down Vests

• Best Overall Down Vest: Eddie Bauer Stormdown Vest
• Best Down Vest For Women: Eddie Bauer Women’s Stormdown Vest
• Best Down Vest For Men: Eddie Bauer Men’s Stormdown Vest  
• Best Budget Down Vest: Xposurzone Packable Lightweight Down Vest
• Best Down Vest For Hiking: Patagonia Down Sweater Vest
• Best Men’s Packable Down Vest: Eddie Bauer Men’s Stormdown Vest
• Best Women’s Packable Down Vest: Eddie Bauer Women’s Stormdown Vest
• Best Down Vest For Camping: The North Face Men’s Thermoball Vest
• Best Down Vest For Traveling: Eddie Bauer Stormdown Vest
• Best Wet Weather Down Vest: Columbia Lake 22 Down Vest
• Best Cold Weather Down Vest: Canada Goose Freestyle Down Vest
• Best Cool Weather Down Vest: North Face Nuptse Down Vest
• Best Lightweight Down Vest: Outdoor Research Transcendent  
• Best Waterproof Down Vest: Columbia Lake 22 Down Vest
• Best Quality Down Vest: Marmot Aruna Down Vest

Things to Consider When Choosing A Vest

Down vs synthetic.

The age-old question of using Down vs Synthetic products when traveling and hiking will always be a question with no correct answer, as it depends on many factors such as budget, requirements, weather conditions etc and will always, ultimately come down to personal preference.

Down products essentially make use of the feathers taken from duck or geese, to create a warm, insulated product that traps warm air between the feathers in much the same way the animals themselves keep warm.

Synthetic products make use of artificial materials – usually polyester or similar – to create a similar effect.

There are several different types of synthetic and down used to create many different products on the market today. There are very distinct advantages and disadvantages to both materials.

The best down vests will be much lighter and will keep you much warmer than synthetic vests, which are always bulkier and heavier.

Down vests will compress much smaller than any comparable synthetic products, allowing you to carry the vest around without it taking up too much packing space or adding considerably to the overall weight of your gear.

Wet Weather Performance

Down though, performs extremely poorly in wet weather. The down feathers used to create the vest will absorb water at an alarming rate if exposed to rain or snow, rendering it useless incredibly quickly.

While they are perfect in conditions when you know it won’t rain, ultimately you will need to wear the down vest as a layer beneath a waterproof raincoat. For summer conditions though, a down vest can be the perfect piece of clothing.

Down products also need to be cared for and looked after properly. If they are, they can last a lifetime, but you can’t simply throw the best down vests into a washing machine and hope for the best, you need to treat them with different products and wash them very carefully.

Synthetic products can perform much better in the rain, and are much, much easier to look after, however, most products will inevitably be much heavier to carry around and perhaps not quite as soft and as comfortable.

The biggest advantage is the synthetic ability to repel water to a much higher extent than down, while they are also much cheaper to purchase.

As technology and synthetic production advances ever onwards though, you can expect synthetic to match down in the future, but this is still a long way off.

Ultimately, down vests, as long as they are looked after and kept out of the rain, are much better at keeping you warm and keeping your gear light.

Down Options

There are several different types of down filling available, which will have different qualities, prices, and warmth to weight ratios.

The best quality on the market is Goose Down Fill, which is also the most expensive. This makes use of fine goose down and will be the lightest and warmest of the best down vests you can buy.

Another popular down option is the use of Duck Down Feathers, which are generally much cheaper but also heavier and not quite as insulating in comparison to goose down. Some products labeled as Down make use of a mixture, so check the composition of the vest before purchasing.

More commonly, you can purchase down products with water repellent treatment allowing them to perform reasonably well in wet conditions. It still won’t be as waterproof as a synthetic vest, however. 

Synthetic Options

As with down, there are also many different synthetic material options available on the market. The range is greater than with down and if you opt for synthetic over down, then ensure you are purchasing a good brand, with a good reputation for quality.

Many companies have their own trademarked synthetic fills, ranging from such different materials as Thermolite, Thinsulate and many more similar brands.

Warmth Rating

One of the most important deciding factors when choosing the best down vests may well be the overall warmth rating. Down products are generally labeled and rated through a fill number.

For quality down vests, this will range from a low rating of say 600 up to the top of the range 900 ratings.

The lower the down fill rating, the less warm it will be. The higher the down fill rating, the warmer you will be. Of course, a warmer rating will cost you more. The best goose down products will have the highest ratings. 

Comfort and Fit

It’s not wise to purchase a down vest before physically trying it on for size and fit because different brands have different styles and sizing guides.

Down products aren’t cheap, and down vests are no exception, so with this being an investment, you want a vest that can handle different situations and last over time.

Ideally, you will want your down vest to be baggy and loose, allowing you to add several different layers underneath if needs be. This allows your vest to become more versatile, and to cover a greater range of temperatures and conditions.

You also want to ensure that any vest you buy, you are able to cover with a suitable raincoat if the clouds open up while you are out hiking because you don’t want your down getting wet. For this reason, you won’t want the vest to be too baggy either.

You will also want to consider different aesthetic and comfort qualities of the best down vests too. Well-known brands such as North Face or Mountain Hardware produce their own quality ranges, which are as stylish as they are comfortable, allowing you to wear it out and about rather than just when you’re on an expedition.

You will want to check the number of pockets, whether they are practical for holding what you may need them to hold if the zippers are easy to pull up or loosen.

You can only check minor details like this, by trying the vest on in person and when you are spending a lot of money on a product, minor details can very well be the deciding factor in your purchasing choice.

Best Down Vests – Product Recommendations

There are some great quality products on the market, but there are also a lot of products to choose from. To help you to narrow down your purchase, here are a few of our favorite down vests.

Mountain Hardware Vest

With a name like ‘Ghost Whisperer,’ you can expect Mountain Hardware’s premium down vest to be both compact and stylish.

It is both of these things and much, much more besides. With a huge down fill rating, you are guaranteed to be kept warm while wearing the Ghost Whisperer, while it’s one of the lightest vests for sale on the market.

Given all this quality, it’s also one of the most expensive, but if your budget isn’t a problem and you are looking for future investment, this is a solid choice to make.

• Check Price: Mountain Hardwear Women’s Ghost Whisperer Down Vest
• Check Price: Mountain Headware Men’s Ghost Whisperer Down Vest

Patagonia Down Vest

Patagonia makes excellent quality down vests, but given both the branding and the high down rating, you aren’t looking at a cheap product.

The Patagonia Down Sweater Vest is compact, lightweight and it will keep you exceptionally warm, while it’s also stylish and good looking enough to wear in the city on a cold day without looking like you’re setting off to climb a mountain.

• Check Price: Patagonia Women’s Down Sweater Vest 
• Check Price: Patagonia Men’s Down Sweater Vest

North Face Down Vest

North Face is one of the most reputable and practical brands to choose from when it comes to outdoor equipment.

They offer both value and quality, and while their vests aren’t necessarily the top of the range when it comes to size and warmth rating, they are perfect for those with a mid-range budget, who are after a vest that will last a long, long time.

The Nuptse and Thermoball range are a bit bulkier than say the Mountain Hardware or Patagonia offerings, with a down fill rating of 700. It’s incredibly snug though and is perfect for camping expeditions, while it won’t break the bank. 

The retro look isn’t as sleek as some brands, and the North Face Nuptse range would fall into the more classic vest look in comparison to other offerings from other companies.

• Check Price: The North Face Women’s Nuptse 2 Vest
• Check Price: The North Face Men’s Thermoball Vest

Eddie Bauer Down Vest

Eddie Bauer is the leader in outdoor clothing so naturally, their down vests are some of the best out on the market. Built by outdoor lovers for outdoor lovers to last a lifetime of adventures.

They are not just functional but fashionable. Their vest offers premium ultralight features with a high-mobility fit that truly fits like a jacket or  hoodie , minus the sleeves.

Eddie Bauer’s vest is thinner than other down vests out on the market. But their combination of minimal bulk and effective warmth material is what makes the Eddie Bauer vest some of the best down vest on the market.

• Check Price: Eddie Bauer Women’s Stormdown Vest
• Check Price: Eddie Bauer Men’s Stormdown Vest  

Marmot Down Vest 

Marmot down vest is another great choice for adventure loves, designed to be the highest quality performance product by adventure loves from one of the most adventurous places in the wold Juneau Alaska.

They down vest are for those chilly moments where ever your adventures take you from sipping a cup of coffee while out on safari in Africa to gathering firewood while camping in the back county in Patagonia.

• Check Price: Marmot Women’s Aruna Down Vest
• Check Price: Marmot Men’s Zeus Vest

Columbia Down Vest  

Columbia is an industry leader in outdoor appeal and products. They understand outdoor people and the adventures they may take on wearing their vests. This is why Columbia is always pushing the limits with cutting edge technologies.

They offer a great range of down vest that offers their Omni-Heat insulation with their thermal-reflective lining. Their vest is built to retain core body heat and is one of the warmest, softest, and lightest down vest out on the market.

Not only are their vest warm but they are packable  into their interior pocket and they are water-resistant.

• Check Price: Columbia Women’s Lake 22 Down Vest 
• Check Price: Columbia Men’s Lake 22 Down Vest

Not finding what you are looking for? Check out our favorite places to go shopping for travel gear.

• Shop Columbia – The industry leader in outdoor apparel and products; You can find anything from great jackets, gloves, hats, shirts, and travel pants.
• Shop REI – They offer some of the best outdoor gear around. We love REI since they have a year Love it or hate it no questions guarantee.
• Shop Moosejaw – Has a huge selection of outdoor gear at killer prices.

More on Travel Gear:

• Ultimate Travel Gear Guide
• Best Sleeping Bag for Cold Weather – From Africa to Greenland
• Best Sleeping Bag Liners
• Best Travel Rain Jacket to Stay Dry on the Go
• A Man’s Travel Clothing Essential- Bluff Works Pants
• How To Wear A Buff Headwear – It’s Easy!

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Travel planning resources, about david stock.

I have always been an outdoorsman so becoming an adventure traveler was just the next natural step. I love nature, I love to get off the beaten path and I like to explore. I enjoy scuba diving and cars. And yes, Lina and I have a naked dog.

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Best Vests of 2024

To add warmth on those chilly days, we break down the season's top vests from down and synthetic insulation to fleece.

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For getting outdoors on cool fall and spring days, it’s hard to beat a vest. This simple layering piece adds warmth to your core and is cozy, compact, and cheaper than a full jacket. But, like all sectors of the clothing industry, vests are varied, ranging from casual to performance and including a variety of insulation types. Below we break down the best vests of 2024, including our favorite down, synthetic, merino wool, and fleece models. For more background information, see our  vest comparison table  and  buying advice  below the picks.

Editor's note: This round-up was updated on May 31, 2024, to add more insight into our testing approach , ensure all offerings are represented accurately, and remove a couple of discontinued products from Smartwool and The North Face.  

Our Team's Vest Picks

• Best Overall Vest: Patagonia Down Sweater Vest
• Best Budget Vest: REI Co-op 650 Down Vest
• Best Vest for Active Use: Arc'teryx Norvan Insulated Vest
• Best Casual Vest for Everyday Use: Patagonia Better Sweater Vest
• Best Down Vest for Winter: The North Face 1996 Retro Nuptse

Best Overall Vest

1. patagonia down sweater vest ($229).

Popular for both casual and active use, Patagonia brings it all together with the Down Sweater Vest. In terms of warmth, the vest is filled with 3 ounces of premium 800-fill down that will keep your core nice and cozy (it’s also certified to the Responsible Down Standard). The nylon shell fabric looks and feels great, repels light moisture, and comes in a wide variety of colorways, from muted to bright. Bonus: With the most recent update, the Down Sweater Vest's shell is now made from recycled fishing nets, adding to the all-around appeal. From wearing it around the city to hiking and using it as a  midlayer  for skiing, this vest pretty much does it all.

Most of the changes Patagonia incorporated during their most recent update to the Down Sweater collection were positive. In addition to the clear sustainability slant, the latest Down Sweater Vest uses a little more down than the past-generation model (3 oz. vs. 2.4 for the prior version), weighs around an ounce less, and has a slightly thicker and loftier look. We’re also big fans of the new interior drop-in pockets, which are a nice place to stash items like a hat and gloves. The biggest downside is cost: At $229 (a notable $50 more than its predecessor), the Down Sweater Vest is an undeniably steep investment. But it’s hard to beat the build quality and versatility, which is why we’ve kept it at the top of our list for 2024. See the Men's Patagonia Down Sweater   See the Women's Patagonia Down Sweater

Best Budget Vest

2. rei co-op 650 down vest ($100).

REI Co-op’s in-house brand consistently churns out performance outerwear at substantially lower prices than most big brands. The 650 Down Vest is no exception, offering a legitimately warm layering piece for $100—less than half the cost of the Patagonia Down Sweater above. This vest isn’t super technical and doesn’t have the high-end look and feel of the premium alternatives on this list, but it’s a fantastic value overall.

What do you compromise by going with the 650 Down Vest? It uses lower quality 650-fill down compared to the Down Sweater’s 800-fill—which means less warmth for the weight—but this isn’t hugely important unless you’re counting ounces or heading into the backcountry. In addition, its boxier fit and roomier dimensions result in a slightly less polished look. But on the bright side, REI holds its own in terms of sustainability, with RDS-certified down (for humane treatment of birds) and recycled, bluesign (read: ethically sourced) materials. All told, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better down vest for the price. See the Men's REI 650 Down Vest    See the Women's REI 650 Down Vest

Best Vest for Active Use

3. arc'teryx norvan insulated vest ($180).

When it comes to vest insulation, you have two main options: down or synthetic . Down is known for its superior loft and warmth-to-weight ratio, while synthetic insulation is the best choice for breathability and weather resistance. Thus, if you’re in the market for a vest to wear during active pursuits like running, nordic skiing, and ski touring, synthetic is the way to go. You'll also want to look for breathable shell fabrics, built-in stretch or stretchy side panels, and a snug fit. Within this category, we like the Arc’teryx Norvan Insulated Vest best: Specifically designed for runners, it cuts the chill with a light dose of Coreloft synthetic insulation (40g), and its Fortius Air 20 shell keeps air flowing when your heart rate gets high. Tack on a low 3.5-ounce weight and a design that stuffs into its own pocket, and the Norvan Insulated is just about as good as it gets for high-output use.

But the Arc’teryx vest falls short in terms of weather resistance—its air-permeable shell does little to cut the wind, and the thin insulation only offers enough warmth for mild weather or consistent movement. It’s also worth noting that the Norvan Insulated has very little storage—just a pocket on the rear hip—and isn’t particularly durable. For a better all-rounder, check out the Patagonia Nano-Air Light Vest , which features a thicker shell fabric, roomier dimensions, and three generously sized pockets—though it'll cost you an extra $19. Both are wonderfully breathable and supple vests for active use, and a final decision will come down to your objectives and priorities. See the Men's Arc'teryx Norvan Insulated Vest   See the Women's Arc'teryx Norvan Insulated Vest

Best Casual Vest for Everyday Use

4. patagonia better sweater fleece vest ($119).

The down and synthetic vests above are quality insulators, but fleece wins out for coziness and everyday appeal. And no design puts it all together better than Patagonia’s iconic Better Sweater Fleece Vest. For a reasonable $119, the Better Sweater combines plush, moisture-wicking fleece insulation that provides solid warmth for most mild and spring days with a classy, knitted exterior that wears incredibly well around town. It’s not an active piece like the Arc’teryx Norvan above, but breathability is surprisingly good for lower-output uses like hiking and downhill skiing. Added up, it’s a highly versatile and affordable design that looks great around town but can easily pull double-duty for light outdoor pursuits.

All that said, fleece isn’t the best option for serious performance use. In testing the jacket version of the Better Sweater, we found that drafts were easily able to seep through the fairly porous outer knit fabric—we needed to add a shell overtop on gusty days, even in otherwise mild conditions. In addition, you can get more warmth for less weight with options like Patagonia’s Down Sweater above or Arc’teryx’s Cerium Vest below. And a final knock is that fleece tends to pill and will require regular maintenance to maximize its lifespan. But for excellent comfort and everyday appeal at a low price point, the Better Sweater Vest is hard to beat. See the Men's Better Sweater Vest   See the Women's Better Sweater Vest

Best Down Vest for Winter

5. the north face 1996 retro nuptse vest ($230).

Patagonia’s Down Sweater above is a great option for shoulder-season use, but those headed out in true winter temperatures will likely want a bump up in warmth. Enter The North Face’s Nuptse Vest, a substantially built design with a cold-weather pedigree to back it up. This vest is nearly synonymous with the term “puffy” with thick, oversized baffles and heaps of lofty, 700-fill goose down (The North Face doesn’t provide a fill weight, but it feels like a lot). And many love the retro-inspired design, which looks the part in the city or on the trail. For daily outings, cold-weather hiking, or extra insulation during après, the Nuptse is a nice option.

The Retro Nuptse falls short in one key area: versatility. It's one of the warmest and most substantial vests on the list and built to withstand cold temperatures, but that makes it overkill for mild conditions and a bit too bulky for midlayer use. Alternatively, the Down Sweater above can fit reasonably well under a hardshell or ski jacket  and provides enough warmth for most conditions. That said, the Nuptse excels at standalone use, with a robust 40-denier shell and a stowable hood that ensures warmth and weather protection for your noggin. We don't recommend the TNF for serious backcountry endeavors, but as a core insulator for frigid days in the frontcountry, it doesn't get much better.  See the Men's TNF Retro Nuptse   See the Women's TNF Retro Nuptse

Best of the Rest

6. patagonia nano puff vest ($189).

As we touched on above, down wins out in warmth and loft, but synthetic insulation breathes better, dries quicker, and is cheaper. One of our favorite synthetic-insulated vests on the market is the Nano Puff from Patagonia, which also comes in a very popular  full jacket version (as do most other vests on this list). This Nano Puff Vest is sleek and versatile: It’s decently warm, light, packs down small, and looks good for both casual and active use. It’s also less expensive than a comparable down vest and has a noticeably lower profile.

What are the downsides of the Patagonia Nano Puff Vest? The PrimaLoft Gold Eco insulation is pretty darn warm but not to the same degree as down, so this vest isn’t built for frigid conditions (it’s ideal for fall and spring and as a layering piece). Additionally, the current model is slimmer than past versions, so you may want to consider sizing up if you’re in between sizes or plan on wearing your vest over bulky layers. But for an active vest with tons of everyday appeal, you can’t beat the Nano Puff. See the Men's Patagonia Nano Puff   See the Women's Patagonia Nano Puff

7. Arc’teryx Cerium Vest ($300)

Arc’teryx’s Cerium collection has been well loved for years, combining high-end materials and excellent build quality in a good-looking package. The latest Cerium Vest follows suit and is high-end in just about every way: You get 850-fill goose down for warmth (the Patagonia Down Sweater Vest above has slightly lower 800-fill), a super-soft face fabric and lining, and Coreloft synthetic insulation in areas prone to getting wet like the shoulders and collar. Arc’teryx also recently tacked on a host of sustainability measures, including recycled and bluesign-approved fabrics, bio-based materials, RDS-certified down, and a dope-dyed shell that uses less energy and water during production than standard dyeing practices. The result is just about all you can ask for in a vest, from weight and warmth to functionality and looks.

We have the Cerium Vest ranked below the Down Sweater for a couple of reasons. The first is cost: $300 is a lot to spend on a layering piece. Second, Arc’teryx’s athletic fit isn’t for everyone, not to mention a vest is often layered over a shirt or light jacket and therefore is best with a slightly looser cut. But if you love the Arc’teryx fit or plan on packing the Cerium along for active use, this vest will not disappoint. With the most recent revision, they also redesigned the zippers and pulls for a more streamlined profile and better durability. See the Men's Arc'teryx Cerium Vest   See the Women's Arc'teryx Cerium Vest

8. Fjallraven Greenland Down Liner Vest ($210)

When warmth-to-weight ratios matter, we’ll stick to names like Arc’teryx, Patagonia, and Outdoor Research. But for casual use around town, Fjallraven consistently catches our eye with outerwear that merges performance and fashion. The Greenland Down Liner Vest screams quality, pairing well-selected colorways with classic horizontal baffles and a stylish chest pocket with flap and button closure. And like many other vests here, Fjallraven is making efforts toward sustainability, using recycled polyester, organic cotton, a PFC-free water-resistant finish, and ethically sourced down.

With a hefty 13.4-ounce weight and limited breathability, the Greenland is not our first choice (or anything close to it) for active pursuits. Combined with the steep $210 price tag, it’s far from the best value on the market—especially for those who prioritize versatility. But along with the Patagonia Better Sweater above and Classic Retro-X and L.L. Bean Upcountry Waxed Cotton vests below, it’s one of our favorite casual options of 2024. For cold-but-not-frigid shoulder-season weather, the Greenland is a classy, versatile layer that provides solid core warmth for around-town use and light adventuring. If you prefer the added protection of synthetic insulation, Fjallraven’s Expedition X-Latt and Abisko Padded Vest are similarly well built and good-looking. See the Men's Fjallraven Greenland Down   See the Women's Fjallraven Greenland Down

9. Black Diamond First Light Hybrid Vest ($195)

Arc’teryx’s Norvan Insulated above is our top pick for active use, but those looking for a step up in warmth and durability should consider Black Diamond’s First Light Hybrid. Like the Norvan, this vest is purpose-built to keep you comfortable during high-output pursuits: The outer shell is stretchy and allows for decent airflow, you get a nylon/merino wool panel at the back for airflow and temperature regulation, and the highly breathable PrimaLoft Gold Active insulation at the core adds warmth where you need it most. The net result is class-leading performance for heart-pumping activities in the cold, whether you're ski touring, cross-country skiing, or snowshoeing.

We do have a few issues with the First Light Hybrid. The first two are weight and price: At 8 ounces and $195, it's relatively heavy and expensive for a synthetic vest that isn’t all that warm, especially compared to down options. This leads up to our next point: The 60-gram PrimaLoft insulation does a decent job if you’re moving but won’t keep you cozy when standing still or in cold weather. Finally, the vest doesn’t block the wind all that well, especially at the back. These downsides hurt the First Light’s appeal for casual use, but they're the primary ingredients that lead to it being one of our favorite vests for serious activity. See the Men's BD First Light Hybrid Vest

  10. Outdoor Research Coldfront Down Vest ($179)

Outdoor Research is known for churning out quality, performance-minded apparel at a relatively low price point, and their Coldfront Down Vest is no exception. For $50 less than the Down Sweater Vest above, the Coldfront provides winter-ready warmth and tacks on additional weather protection by way of a water-resistant Pertex Quantum Eco shell and synthetic VerticalX Eco insulation at the shoulders. We also love the look, which features wide horizontal baffles, roomy dimensions (designed for layering underneath), and a subtle OR patch at the chest. Added up, the Coldfront is a classy yet warm vest that will get the job done both in the mountains and around town.

But compared to the Down Sweater, the Coldfront does fall short in a few categories. For one, colorways are limited compared to Patagonia. Second, at 13.2 ounces, it's a considerable 4.3 ounces heavier than the Down Sweater, although that does come with a boost in warmth. Outdoor Research has been slippery with their numbers, but the last we checked, the most current Coldfront Down Vest features 3.5 ounces of 700-fill down (compared to the Down Sweater's 3 oz. of 800-fill) and a bit of synthetic insulation, which leads us to believe it's overall the warmer piece. It's not our first choice for weight-conscious backpacking or climbing trips, but the Coldfront is nevertheless a warm and versatile vest for everything from resort skiing and snowshoeing to chilly evenings closer to home. See the Men's OR Coldfront Down Vest   See the Women's Coldfront Hooded Down Vest

11. Norrøna Falketind Down750 Vest ($249)

Norway-based Norrøna isn’t a household name in the U.S. like Arc’teryx or Patagonia, but they offer a quality lineup of outerwear that’s purpose-built for demanding backcountry pursuits. True to form, the Falketind Down750 is a decidedly premium piece that works well for everything from cold-weather hiking to bundling up around town. Like the Cerium Vest above, the Falketind is primarily insulated with down but substitutes synthetic at the neck, sides, shoulders, and lower back for better wet-weather assurance. Norrøna also added a hood—not common among vest designs— which adds a good dose of warmth and a nice, cozy look.

As a result of the added features, the Falketind isn’t particularly light for a down vest, clocking in more than 2 ounces heavier than the Cerium Vest. Further, while 750-fill down is fairly high-quality, you can get more premium varieties that are warmer for the weight (and therefore less bulky) within Arc’teryx or Patagonia’s lineups. Combined with the very steep price tag, these downsides are enough to push the Falketind to a mid-pack finish. But we do love the look and feel of this Norrøna vest, and its thoughtful design touches make it versatile for both performance and casual use (which could help justify the cost). See the Men's Norrøna Falketind Down750   See the Women's Norrøna Falketind Down750

12. Cotopaxi Fuego Down Vest ($185)

There’s no shortage of down vests, but the Cotopaxi Fuego stands out to us for a few reasons. First is value: For $185 (a considerable $44 less than our top-ranked Down Sweater Vest), you get a really nice piece with premium 800-fill down and a water-resistant 20-denier shell. Second, it toes the line between our casual and performance categories better than most, balancing Cotopaxi’s trademark retro styling with a functional feature set that includes great storage (two zippered handwarmer pockets and two interior pockets) and a drawcord at the hem. It even stuffs into its own pocket.

It’s worth noting that Cotopaxi is one of just a few outdoor brands (including Stio, REI, and Ibex) that is climate neutral-certified, meaning that they continuously measure their footprint and work to offset (and then reduce) those emissions. This won’t be a selling point for everyone, but it’s become an increasingly important consideration for many consumers in recent years. We rank the Down Sweater higher for its lower weight (by around 5 oz.) and more subdued and streamlined styling, but the latter is largely a matter of personal preference. In the end, Cotopaxi has a ways to go in matching Patagonia’s long-standing reputation for quality and fit, but their Fuego is a well-priced Down Sweater alternative. For a cheaper synthetic option from Cotopaxi with similar styling, check out their Teca Calido Insulated Vest . See the Men's Cotopaxi Fuego Vest   See the Women's Cotopaxi Fuego Vest

13. L.L. Bean Upcountry Waxed Cotton Down Vest ($179)

L.L. Bean consistently hits the mark when it comes to effectively balancing fashion and function, and their Upcountry Waxed Cotton Down Vest carries the torch. Like the Fjallraven Greenland above, the Upcountry Vest is decidedly more casual than performance-focused but looks great around town and can pull double duty for light outdoor use. Starting with warmth, the L.L. Bean is packed with 650-fill down (bonus: It’s hydrophobic) with soft corduroy accents inside the collar and pocket flaps for a nice boost in coziness. And all of the small features are there: The zipper and buttons are solid brass, the storage layout is generous and well executed, and the branding is much less prominent than on other vests on this list.

Deciding on the best casual vest will likely come down to preferences on materials, styling, and cost. At $179, the Upcountry Waxed Cotton Down Vest costs around $30 less than the Fjallraven Greenland above and uses slightly higher-quality insulation, but you forgo some of the ubiquitous down-puffy look. Alternatively, budget-conscious shoppers can save with Patagonia’s $119 Better Sweater Fleece Vest above or Carhartt’s $80 Duck Vest below. But the L.L. Bean’s waxed exterior will fare better over the long term (it will develop a vintage patina look similar to leather), and the thoughtful finishes add a high-end, premium feel. For a slightly more performance-ready option from L.L. Bean that still looks the part for daily wear, check out their Mountain Classic Down Vest .  See the Men's Upcountry Down Vest   See the Women's Upcountry Down Vest

14. Patagonia Classic Retro-X Vest ($159)

Nobody does fleeces better than Patagonia, and their Classic Retro-X harkens back to some of the brand’s original designs. It’s hard to argue with the formula: The Retro-X is cozy, stylish, and adds a noticeable boost in warmth on those chilly fall and spring days. You’ll see this vest (and the full fleece jacket version) everywhere from your local trailhead to the watering hole later that evening, and nobody seems to be complaining. 

As is the case with many Patagonia products, the Retro-X isn’t cheap at $159. You are getting nice extras like a windproof membrane sandwiched in between the sherpa fleece exterior and mesh lining, but the price puts it up against cozier and warmer down alternatives. It’s no doubt a great piece, but there are enough downsides to drop the Retro-X in our rankings. For a more buttoned-down look with a little less warmth, try the Patagonia Better Sweater Vest above. And for a step up in performance, Cotopaxi’s Trico Hybrid Vest uses a unique design with a polyester shell, synthetic fill up top, and fleece along the core and chest pocket for a nice mix of comfort and protection. See the Men's Patagonia Classic Retro-X   See the Women's Patagonia Classic Retro-X

15. Rab Microlight Down Vest ($200)

Rab’s Microlight Down Vest might look relatively unassuming on first glance, but there’s more to this piece than meets the eye. First is weather protection: Rab tacked on several protective measures to help combat the inherently poor wet-weather performance of down, including a tough Pertex Quantum shell, quality DWR coating, water-resistant YKK zippers, and Nikwax finish on the insulation. Other notable features include a close-fitting collar for a little extra warmth around the neck, an adjustable hem for sealing out wind, and pockets that sit high enough to access while wearing a harness or hipbelt. You’ll still want to don a waterproof layer if the skies open up, but the Microlight stands out as one of the most weather-ready down vests on the market and a nice match for summer alpine missions and shoulder-season use in wetter climates.

How does the Rab Microlight Down Vest stack up to our top-rated Patagonia Down Sweater Vest? The Microlight uses lower-quality down (700-fill vs. the Patagonia’s 800-fill) but a little more of it at 4.2 ounces (compared to 3 oz. for the Down Sweater), which translates to a small bump in warmth. On the flip side, the Down Sweater weighs around 2 ounces less, and we prefer the Patagonia’s stuff pocket over the Rab’s separate stuff sack for packing down (the latter is easier to lose). Finally, the Down Sweater is more everyday-friendly with a streamlined look and better colorway selection. But the Rab costs around $30 less and gets the clear edge for demanding outdoor use, making it the better pick for those who value performance over casual appeal. See the Men's Rab Microlight Down Vest   See the Women's Rab Microlight Down Vest  

16. Columbia Steens Mountain Vest ($50)

For those on a tight budget, the Steens Mountain from Columbia is just about the cheapest vest you’ll find. There are no frills here: It’s constructed of a very basic polyester fleece fabric, has two hand pockets, and some versions come in a two-color design with the shoulder/side panel varying from the torso. But Columbia is a respected company in the outdoor gear world, and the Steens Mountain Vest should help add some warmth to your core.

Who should steer clear of the Columbia? This fleece vest will add only a fraction of the warmth compared to a down or even a synthetic model. And although our Columbia products have lasted longer than anticipated, it’s good to have reasonable expectations with gear available at this price point. The fleece eventually will show wear, especially after a number of washings. See the Men's Columbia Steens Mountain   See the Women's Columbia Benton Springs

17. Carhartt Duck Vest ($80)

For winter workwear, it doesn’t get much more classic than the Carhartt Duck Vest. Built with a heavy canvas exterior and lined with quilted polyester, this vest delivers warmth and durability in an affordable package. Whether you’re working outside or looking for a casual piece to keep you cozy, the Carhartt is an excellent example of why we love vests—you can get a bombproof and cozy covering for your core while still maintaining excellent mobility and breathability (Carhartt also makes a Duck Jacket , which is, by no surprise, heavier and more restrictive).

In terms of competitors, the Duck Vest can’t hold a candle to down-filled alternatives like the Fjallraven Greenland or L.L. Bean Upcountry above in terms of warmth, and its polyester lining will pack out over time. But for a whopping $130 less than the Greenland and $99 less than the Upcountry, it’s a really nice value. Patagonia also makes their All Seasons Hemp Canvas Vest , which splits the difference at $139. Keep in mind that these vests are designed for work and casual environments and don’t offer the low weight or weather protection that you’ll want for outdoor activities like hiking or skiing. But for outdoor work and everyday use, the Carhartt Duck Vest is a capable layer at a price that’s hard to beat.  See the Men's Carhartt Duck Vest   See the Women's Carhartt Duck Vest

Vest Comparison Table

About our testing process.

A vest may not seem like an essential layering piece, but for some activities and weather conditions, it can be the perfect addition to your kit. Rotating members of the Switchback Team have been testing vests since 2017, with many classics like the Patagonia Down Sweater staying strong the entire time. Editor-in-chief Penney Garrett curates this guide currently, and she is rarely found without a vest on her body or stowed away for later in a pack. She is an avid hiker, skier, cyclist, and climber and has used and loved vests for all of these activities in all seasons and weather types. From technical synthetics to cozy down and merino wool, Penney and her team are always scouting for new and exciting additions to test and add to this guide if they're deemed worthy. 

An otherwise fun day in the outdoors can be seriously downgraded by getting too hot or cold, even if all other contributing factors align perfectly. And while a well-designed long-sleeve midlayer can be great, sometimes it's more ideal to have the extra warmth only around your core. Enter the vest: An expert piece that leaves your arms free to move and breathe while your midsection stays insulated. Whether you want a thin technical piece for high-output activities (think cross-country skiing or chilly trail runs) or something thicker and cozier for walking the dog or hanging out around the fire pit, our picks above have something to offer. We've considered every factor, from insulation and weather resistance to overall quality and features. Read on to learn more about the factors we look for in a vest worthy of closet space.  

Vest Buying Advice

• Casual vs. Performance Use

Insulation Types

Weather resistance, breathability, durability (denier), weight and packability, sustainability.

• Stepping up to a Full Jacket  

​ Casual vs. Performance Use

We’ll start by pointing out that the majority of vests are worn casually as everyday pieces. They’re great for layering over a flannel or light jacket to add warmth during the fall and spring, and a vest can make you much more comfortable without the need for a full-on jacket. This means that warmth is a top priority—it’s the main purpose of a vest aside from looking good in the process. For this reason, we generally favor down vests like the Patagonia Down Sweater over synthetics (more on why down is the warmest option below).

In addition to casual use, some people wear vests for aerobic activities like hiking, biking, and climbing, or as a midlayer for skiing (both resort and backcountry). For these types of uses, you’ll often see synthetic vests from performance brands like Patagonia and Arc’teryx, many of which breathe well, resist moisture, and continue insulating when wet. For serious forays into the backcountry, however, a jacket provides maximum coverage and warmth and therefore often makes the most sense. This is why most vests are casual first and performance second.  

Down Without a doubt, down is the warmest insulation type. It’s simply unmatched in terms of warmth, weight, and compressibility—the plumage and feathers are extremely fluffy and do a great job at trapping heat close to your body and packing down small. However, down is less breathable than synthetic insulation and retains more moisture when wet, which can cause problems in rainy or snowy weather. For this reason, some down vests (like the OR Coldfront and Arc'teryx Cerium above) put synthetic insulation in high-exposure areas.

When evaluating the quality of down inside a particular vest, fill power is the most commonly provided specification. The higher the fill number, the warmer and fluffier the down will be at a given weight. Most high-end down layering pieces use 800- or 850-fill down, with the Arc’teryx Cerium Vest topping our list at 850-fill. 750-fill power and below falls more into the mid-range category, but even premium brands like Fjallraven use 600-fill down in their vests (it doesn’t matter as much for casual use). Fill weight, which is the actual amount of down inside the garment (and very helpful in determining warmth), unfortunately isn’t provided for most vests. Synthetic For high-output activities, synthetic insulation is more breathable than down and won’t soak up moisture as readily. It’s also cheaper while still able to keep you quite cozy—that said, not all synthetic insulation is created equal. Industry leader PrimaLoft is dependable and known for their innovation. Arc’teryx does a nice job balancing weight, warmth, breathability, and packed size with their in-house Coreloft insulation, Black Diamond’s First Light Hybrid uses PrimaLoft’s breathable Silver Insulation Active, and The North Face has spent a lot of energy on its proprietary ThermoBall (made in conjunction with PrimaLoft). All have their upsides, but at the end of the day, none are quite as warm and packable as premium down (Patagonia’s PlumaFill is the closest we’ve tested). For a complete breakdown of the topic, see our article on down vs. synthetic insulation .  

Merino Wool Along with down, merino wool is one of the premier natural forms of insulation, known for its next-to-skin comfort, warmth, temperature regulation, and ability to wick moisture and stay dry. For these reasons, it’s very popular in performance layering, and particularly for baselayers. Merino is popular for vests, too, with wool specialists like Smartwool and Icebreaker having a number of models. Keep in mind that most merino vests (and products in general) consist of simply the fabric itself instead of clusters of down or synthetic insulation, so they will be thinner and not quite as warm. There are outliers though:  Black Diamond's First Light Hybrid  offers a nice mix of synthetic fill at the front and a blended merino panel at the back. For a performance vest or baselayer for aerobic activities, merino is a very viable option. Fleece Fleece is pretty much synonymous with coziness and has been for years. This simple polyester fabric is soft, decently warm depending on the thickness, and offers great next-to-skin comfort. Fleece is most commonly found on casual pieces like the ubiquitous Patagonia Better Sweater and Classic Retro-X Vest . You’ll occasionally see performance fleeces out on the hiking trails or in the bouldering fields, but they aren’t built for serious outdoor use in the same way as the other insulation types. Fleece doesn’t block wind very well in most cases, weighs quite a bit for the warmth it provides, doesn’t compress very small, and tends to pill up over time. But it is comfortable and inexpensive, which are two of the reasons it’s so popular for everyday wear.

As we covered above, down is the warmest type of insulation for the weight. Synthetic insulation comes in second, with merino wool and fleece tending to be the least warm of the bunch. In general, a vest should help keep you decently warm as a layering piece in most fall and spring conditions. If the temperatures get frigid or you are standing still for an extended period of time, you will want to consider layering up or wearing a full down or synthetic jacket instead. Partial coverage is great in mild weather or if you’re working up some body heat, but full coverage is best for the cold.

If you’re looking for concrete numbers to evaluate the warmth of a particular vest, there are a few helpful clues. For down, fill power is readily available (850-fill, 800-fill, etc.), which is the measure of the quality of the down. Fill weight (the physical amount of down) isn’t listed as frequently for vests as it is for full down jackets , but we always mention this in our product writeups above when we have this info. Synthetic pieces often use grams (60g, 40g, etc.) to measure warmth, and merino and fleece use grams or other designations like heavyweight, midweight, and lightweight. All in all, a vest will add notable warmth but shouldn’t be thought of as a standalone piece for the cold.  

The sleeveless design of vests means weather resistance isn’t a top consideration, but there are notable differences between models. The shell, including its material, thickness, and coating, largely determines the degree of weather protection. Most down and synthetic vests have a polyester or nylon shell that should do a decent job at repelling light to moderate wind and precipitation. Some high-end and mid-range vests like the Arc'teryx Norvan Insulated  and Patagonia Down Sweater add a DWR (durable water repellent) treatment, which helps water bead up and roll off your vest instead of soaking in.  Rab's Microlight Down Vest takes it a step further with a weather-resistant Pertex Quantum shell, hydrophobic down, and quality DWR finish. Merino does a good job of repelling moisture naturally but will soak through over time, and the same goes for fleece, which is hydrophobic but allows wind and water to penetrate the fabric.

If your vest is down, you’ll want to add layers when rain or snow really starts to fall. Down soaks up moisture and loses the ability to insulate, whereas synthetics are much better in this regard. From our experience, we’ve noticed that most jackets and vests are rather impressive at resisting moisture, and we tend not to fret too much unless we are out in the rain for extended periods or it really starts to pour.  

Breathability can vary significantly from vest to vest, and synthetic insulation is superior to down for airflow. From our list above, Black Diamond's First Light Hybrid  (which features PrimaLoft Silver Active at the front) is impressive at breathing and keeping you cool on the go, which makes it a great midlayer for high-output activities like backcountry skiing or as an outer layer for cool-weather hiking, biking, or climbing. Arc’teryx’s Coreloft is great, too, as seen on the minimalist Norvan Insulated Vest. Merino wool is also a good breather for aerobic activities like running and cross-country skiing, although its utility is somewhat limited as these vests tend to be thinner and less warm than synthetics. Lightweight fleeces also can be decent ventilators, but most fleece vests are casual in nature and do not excel at regulating temperature.

Don’t overlook the durability of the vest you’re considering—it can lead to an all-too-short lifespan for a rather pricey purchase. The thickness of a down or synthetic vest’s shell fabric is measured in denier (D), and the higher the number, the thicker the shell. At the ultralight end of the spectrum, a vest like the 10x10D Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer/2 (not included here) is built for true ounce counters. This means that the overall weight of the vest is surprisingly low, but it’s also quite easy to rip while brushing up against a branch or rock. If you take great care with an ultralight shell fabric, it can last, but it requires exactly that.

Most casual or all-around synthetic and down vests on this list are 20-denier and up, which allows you to think about your vest a lot less than with an ultralight piece. Many of our top picks fall into this category, including the Patagonia Down Sweater and Arc’teryx Norvan Insulated (both 20D). A heavy-duty vest like The North Face Nuptse is even thicker at 40D, and Carhartt’s Duck Vest fabric doesn’t have a denier measurement but is extremely thick and durable. Merino wool is the least durable vest type of the bunch, as it doesn’t have a shell protecting the material and is typically rather thin. Fleece is fairly tough but is prone to pilling after multiple washings or extended use.  

Weight matters most to those who are heading out into the backcountry and carrying their belongings in a pack (backpacking and backcountry skiing are two prime examples). Because most vests are casual in nature and worn for everyday use, weight isn’t a huge factor in most people’s buying decisions. However, there are notable differences in weight between our picks above, starting with the Arc'teryx Norvan Insulated at a feathery 3.5 ounces. The next-lightest option in our current lineup is the Arc'teryx Cerium , and it's twice as heavy at 7.1 ounces. Burly vests like The North Face Retro Nuptse weigh around or over 1 pound, and thick shells like the Carhartt Duck Vest are even heavier. For ultralighters, down is the clear favorite—it provides the most warmth for the weight and packs down the smallest.

For those who plan on carrying their vest in a backpack, some of our picks come with a stuff sack or pack down into one of their own pockets. This can make a vest even easier to carry, as it will take up very little space overall.  Remember that it’s best to leave your vest unpacked while at home, which helps preserve the down or synthetic insulation. A handful of vests on this list are not packable (we list this in our comparison table ), although many of those still will stuff down reasonably small into the corner of a backpack.  

Vests don’t have a ton of variation in terms of pockets, but most designs boast at least two handwarmer pockets (even the basic fleece Columbia Steens Mountain has two hand pockets). Some vests have a chest pocket on the upper left, and some have an interior pocket that may double as a stuff sack for storage. The pockets on the vests we’ve tested are generally perfect for comfortably carrying the basics: small objects like keys, a wallet, and a phone. If you plan on bringing more than that along, you’ll want to consider using a daypack or other carrying device.  

In terms of fit, vests are less complicated than full jackets, mainly because the arms don’t come into play. However, different vests and brands fit differently in the torso, and this is worth taking into account. Patagonia, for example, tends to have a medium to boxy fit that allows for a wider range of body types. The North Face also tends to run large and boxy, as they are frequently geared toward more casual use. On the other hand, Arc’teryx's Cerium and Norvan Insulated are designed with performance in mind and therefore have snug, athletic fits. Keep in mind that vests are layering pieces and therefore it matters what you intend to wear underneath or over the top. If you plan on layering over a bulky flannel or jacket, it definitely makes sense to size up if you’re on the fence.

The outdoor apparel market has seen a sizable push in sustainability practices of late, and vests are no exception. Key measures include the use of recycled fabrics, down insulation that’s traceable and certified to the Responsible Down Standard (RDS), and materials that are bluesign-approved (safe for the environment, workers, and consumers) and Fair Trade Certified (produced in a factory where workers’ conditions and compensation are priorities). It’s important to note that no insulation type is totally eco-friendly, and both down and synthetics have their drawbacks, but the increase in RDS-certified down and recycled synthetic fill certainly is appealing from an environmental standpoint. It’s also becoming increasingly common to see PFC-free DWR coatings, which are free of perfluorocarbons that are harmful to the environment.

Brands like Patagonia and REI Co-op have been at the forefront of the sustainability push, but many other leading outdoor companies continue to make notable inroads year after year. For example, The North Face updated parts of their collection, including the Nuptse Vest, to include 100% recycled materials and a PFC-free DWR finish. Cotopaxi is also worth calling out directly as one of just a few outdoor brands that’s climate neutral-certified (along with REI), which means they continuously monitor their footprint and work to reduce emissions. In the end, how a vest is made may not be the deciding factor for some consumers, but we certainly appreciate when brands are transparent about their practices and go the extra mile in creating more sustainably built products.

Stepping up to a Full Jacket

We really appreciate vests. They’re super cozy, terrific for casual use, and less bulky and expensive than a full jacket. But there are obvious limitations: Vests don’t offer full coverage and leave your arms exposed, meaning you also have to think about what will be worn underneath. Most serious adventurers depend on down jackets or synthetic jackets for warmth and protection while out in the backcountry, while vests are seen more frequently in town. Fortunately, the majority of the vests on this list are the trimmed-down siblings of the full jacket versions. This means that you may already have some familiarity with certain products and insulation types, and if you’re a fan, you can grab the jacket version of the vest or vice versa.  Back to Our Top Vest Picks   Back to Our Vest Comparison Table

Learn More About Outdoor Gear

Best Down Jackets of 2024

Ski Gear Reviews

Best Ski Jackets of 2024

Patagonia Nano Puff Hoody Review

Best Synthetic Insulated Jackets of 2024

Patagonia Down Sweater Hoody Review

Camping Gear Reviews

Arc'teryx Atom Hoody Review

Best Midlayers of 2024

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Best Down Vests of 2024

Colder weather is right around the corner, and what does that mean? Down! The superior insulating properties of down are very well documented throughout the adventure community. This, combined with being extremely lightweight and packable, makes down ideal for nearly any sport. Furthermore, one of the best ways to enjoy down yet maximize packability is the iconic down vest.

But there are just so many out there, right? Puffy vests, slim vests, hooded vests, and the list goes on. We’ve gone ahead and waded through all these options, and now present the absolutely best down vests on the market for your consideration. So read on, and pick out the vest that will work best for you!

For more of our top hiking apparel recommendations, check out the Best Down Vests for Women .

Quick Answer - The Best Down Vests

• Patagonia Down Sweater View at REI
• REI Co-op 650 View at REI
• Arc’teryx Cerium LT View at REI
• Patagonia Nano Puff View at REI
• Cotopaxi Fuego View at REI
• The North Face 1996 Retro Nuptse View at Backcountry
• Outdoor Research Transcendent View at Amazon
• Eddie Bauer Downlight View at Amazon
• Marmot Zeus View at Amazon
• Columbia Flash Forward View at Amazon

Comparison Table - Best Hiking Down Vest

Reviews - the best down vests for hiking, patagonia down sweater.

• Material : Polyester Ripstop
• Fill Power : 800-Fill
• Packable : Yes, fits into internal pocket
• Weather Resistance : Durable Water Repellent (DWR) Finish
• Nice Trim Fit
• Very Comfortable For Any Activity
• Adjustable Hem

BEST FOR: VERSATILE USE FOR ANY SPORT

Patagonia’s reputation for high quality and eco-friendly products is near legend in the adventure community. It therefore comes as no surprise that their Down Sweater Vest is one of the best down vests out there. 800-fill down provides excellent warmth while the comfortable fit and durable material make it an ideal addition to almost any adventure wardrobe. 

The durable – and 100% recycled – ripstop polyester shell will hold up to most active use, and its DWR finish will also help keep that inclement weather at bay. The vest’s hem is also adjustable through drawcords accessible through the two pockets, so you can cinch in that warmth without even taking your hands out of your pockets! 

This premium construction and plethora of features comes at significant cost however. But if you’re in the market for an adventure vest that can add warmth to your next ski trip, snow-shoeing excursion, or any other cold weather endeavor, then the Patagonia Sweater Vest may well be worth the cost.

REI Co-op 650

• Material : Nylon And Ripstop Polyester
• Fill Power : 650-Fill
• Packable : Yes, fits into hand pocket
• Weather Resistance : DWR And Slight Wind Resistance
• Very Accessible Price
• Packs Down Nice And Small
• Comfortable For All-day Wear

BEST FOR: FINDING A DOWN VEST ON A BUDGET    

Many exceptional down vests come with an exceptionally large price tag to match, but not the REI Down Vest. The many benefits of a quality down vest are here for the taking at a very reasonable cost. These benefits include excellent insulation for the colder days along with a durable and weather resistant outer material to make the vest last. 

The lower price does come with a few sacrifices, however. The look comes out a little boxy and lacks the premium trim fit that we often look for in vests destined for activewear. The material itself is also not quite as soft to the touch as its higher end competitors. 

But when looking for a reliable vest that checks all the boxes for a standard layering addition, the REI Down Vest is perfect. While the 650-Fill down may not be quite as insulating as other vests on our list, it still gets the job done for cooler fall and spring days. It also packs down into its own pocket for easy toting.

Arc’teryx Cerium LT

• Material : 100% Nylon
• Fill Power : 850-Fill
• Packable : No, but very lightweight
• Athletic Trim Fit
• Internal Zippered Security Pocket
• Low-Profile For Active Use

BEST FOR: LIGHTWEIGHT INSULATION

On almost the exact opposite end of the spectrum from the classic oversized and puffy leisure vest, we have the trim Cerium LT from Arc’teryx. This vest expertly combines a low-profile design with exceptional 850-fill down insulation and all in a lightweight 6.5oz package. 

Such powerful insulation with an equally powerful lightweight construction easily makes the Cerium one of the best down vests for you active adventurers out there. It barely adds any bulk or weight to your active wardrobe, and yet provides significant insulation wrapped up in a durable nylon exterior and DWR finish. Arc’teryx also went the extra mile to include synthetic insulation in areas where moisture tends to reduce down’s effectiveness. 

It’s important to note that the very trim cut of this vest may not suit everyone, especially if you prefer to throw on your vest over several other layers or even a coat. Therefore plan on going up a size if you’re unsure, or even consider checking out other vests that aren’t quite so tight – or expensive. But for those of you looking for a slim vest to keep you warm and avoid extra bulk, you can’t go wrong with the Cerium LT.

Patagonia Nano Puff

• Material : Recycled polyester ripstop
• Fill Power : 60g PrimaLoft Gold Insulation
• Packable : Yes
• Brick quilting pattern for stable insulation & durable thread for abrasion resistance
• Center-front zipper has wicking interior storm flap
• Two zippered handwarmer pockets
• Drawcord-adjustable droptail hem seals in warmth

BEST SYNTHETIC PICK

If you’re looking for something that feels similar to down but breathes better and dries quicker, consider the Nano Puff.

Patagonia designed the Nano Puff as a versatile, sleek, and affordable down vest option. This vest features highly advanced PrimaLoft Gold Eco insulation that makes for a great three season piece that layers well, is decently warm, and packs down small.

What I like most about the Patagonia Nano Puff Vest is its considerably slimmer-looking profile when compared to down alternatives in its class.

Cotopaxi Fuego

• Material : 20D Ripstop Nylon
• Fill Power : 950-Fill
• Packable : Yes, comes w/ separate stuff sack
• Two Interior Stash Pockets
• Drawcord Adjustable Hem
• Very Warm Insulation

BEST FOR: EXCEPTIONAL INSULATION FOR VERY COLD DAYS 

At an impressive 950-fill, the Fuego has some of the highest insulation powers of any down vest on the list, making it your perfect sidekick for any cold weather adventures this winter. It functions perfectly as your primary outer layer on slightly cool days, or as an additional layer under your coat on those very cold occasions. 

What’s more, the adjustable drawcord hem allows you to lock in that heat anytime conditions dictate, and the DWR finish will help keep rain and snow from soaking in. The two interior stash pockets are also very handy for keeping your essentials safe and tucked away while skiing, hiking, or simply walking around town. 

We’re also very taken with the attractive color schemes that are available for the Fuego, making it a slick choice for a night out as well as skiing in the mountains. The premium insulation combined with a durable yet attractive nylon shell therefore makes the Fuego the last but certainly not least on our list of the best down vests.

The North Face 1996 Retro Nuptse

• Material : Nylon Ripstop Or Polyester Taffeta - Color Dependent
• Fill Power : 700-Fill
• Hood : Yes (stowable)
• Extremely Warm And Boxy Fit
• Very Large Baffle Design To Retain Heat
• Durable Ripstop Shell Material Withstands Heavy Use
• Stowable Hood

BEST FOR: CLASSIC PUFFY VEST STYLE 

For those of you out there who love the puffy comfort of the classic boxy vests, The North Face has crafted the Retro Nuptse Vest just for you. The baffles – down filled sections – are oversized and extra puffy. The overall fit is furthermore very boxy to promote comfort and warmth.  

The Nuptse is almost guaranteed to keep you nice and cozy through chilly city winters, and provides an excellent outer layer for colder walks and day hikes. Keep in mind that the boxy design of this vest won’t be well suited to more extreme alpine, hiking, or climbing adventures. 

Nevertheless, the DWR finish will help keep any precipitation from wicking into the down while the extremely durable outer shell will hold up to daily use for your commute, walks around town, or simply a chilly office. What’s more, the collar hides a very comfortable hood to further lock out the cold.

Outdoor Research Transcendent

• Material : 20D Polyester
• Packable : No
• Weather Resistance : Water And Wind Resistant
• Very Stylish Design And Color Options
• Snazzy Snap Pockets And Zip Chest Pocket
• Internal Media Pocket

BEST FOR: STYLISH VEST-WEAR      

It seems that the vest has recently been falling out of fashion, but the Transcendent injects fresh life into the world of stylish yet functional down vests. With a very sharp design and color options to match, this vest boasts large snap pockets and a trim fit that looks good from the city to the mountains. 

But the Transcendent isn’t just for show! The 650-fill down provides ample insulation for most cool weather adventures and the low profile design easily allows this garment to be worn under your coat for added warmth retention. The vest furthermore includes an internal media pocket to make it just as functional for those daily commutes. 

For such a powerful vest design, we really wish Outdoor Research has upped the fill power to perhaps the 750 or 800 mark to make this vest invincible in just about all temperatures. However, we’ll settle for the 650-fill down and a very swish design that makes this one of the best down vests to cut a dash on every occasion.

Eddie Bauer Downlight

• Material : 20D Ripstop Polyester
• Packable : Yes, fits into hand pocket (w/ carabiner loop)
• Weather Resistance : StormRepel Super DWR And Windproofing
• Media Compatible Chest Pocket
• Stylish Design That’s Neither Bulky Nor Too Tight

BEST FOR: CITY LIVING

Eddie Bauer has produced an exceptional vest that checks all the boxes we look for in a city-going layer. The design is straightforward, yet still attractive. The cut is neither too boxy nor too tight, making it fit comfortably and stylishly. The chest pocket and media port is the perfect place to stash your phone and listen to some tunes while walking or taking the bus or subway. 

The durable ripstop shell is also impervious to those chilling winter winds, and sheds moisture thanks to its DWR finish. Both these items work in tandem to make this vest a solid performer in all types of weather. When the weather gets extra cold, the adjustable drawstring hem can be cinched down nice and tight to lock in all the warmth that the 800-fill down provides. 

The Downlight Vest is therefore our top recommendation for looking good and taking on chilly days with impunity. A hood would have been a very welcome addition to this ensemble, but this is nevertheless one of the best down vests on the market at a very reasonable price.

Marmot Zeus

• Material : Ripstop Polyester
• Drawcord Hem Adjustment
• Down Proof Shell To Keep Feathers From Poking Out
• Trim Cut To Fit Under Coat

BEST FOR: LAYERING ON SKI AND SNOWBOARD ADVENTURES

Streaking down those slopes with the wind whistling through your clothing can be a very chilly experience! So do yourself a favor and add the Marmot Zeus to your ski or snowboard layering system. The trim design can fit perfectly under your jacket to give your insulation the boost it needs with very comfortable 700-fill down. 

The outer polyester shell is also downproof to keep that pesky plumage from poking out and getting stuck on your other clothes. This shell features the standard DWR finish to help keep any rain or snow from seeping in. You can also cinch the hem nice and tight to keep that precious heat from spilling out when you pull off those tight turns on the slopes. 

A nice puffy hood would round this particular vest off very nicely, but we can’t argue with its decent midrange price and excellent insulating properties. So stay warm out there this winter with one of the best down vests on the market!

Columbia Flash Forward

• Material : 100% Polyester
• Fit : Trim, Long
• Packable : Yes, fits in hand pocket
• Weather Resistance : Water Resistant With Columbia Heat Seal To Reduce Water Penetration
• Packs Down Into Its Own Pocket
• Very Shiny And Sleek Appearance
• Long Design Suited For Tall Men

BEST FOR: TALLER GENTLEMEN 

There’s almost nothing worse than slipping into a new top where everything is just perfect, except it ends awkwardly high right around your waistline, right? Well you tall gents out there have nothing to worry about with the Columbia Flash Forward. The cut for this particular item distinctly favors the long side, making it an ideal choice for the ‘can you reach the top shelf?’ folks out there. You know who you are. 

But catering to the tall isn’t the Flash Forward’s only strength. The 650-fill down provides excellent insulation while the slimmer profile makes it easy to slip into any layering system. Columbia’s Heat Seal technology furthermore eliminates seams between the baffles – down filled pockets – which in turn reduces avenues for water to seep in. 

This Heat Seal combined with the standard weather resistance finish has resulted in a distinctly shiny appearance for the Flash Forward. We believe this to be a very acquired taste, so look closely before ordering! 

All in all, this is a solid item that is certainly the best down vest for taller gentlemen looking for a warm layer on their adventures.

THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE BUYING DOWN VESTS

Insulation and fill power.

The fill power number is the primary indicator you have for a down garment’s insulating ability, but what exactly does the number mean? That number, generally anywhere from 500 to 900, is the number of cubic inches of loft that a single ounce of that particular down occupies.

The higher the number, the greater the insulating capacity of that particular vest. For more information about how the fill power test is conducted and how fill power can affect your warmth , check out this article from REI.

VEST CUT – TRIM VS. BOXY

The thought of a down vest likely brings an image of those huge puffy garments that are delightfully reminiscent of the pillsbury dough-boy. These classic vests are indeed very warm and have terrific insulation, but are just too boxy and bulky to be practical when climbing , mountaineering, hiking, or completing any outdoor adventure activity. That’s why boxy vests are best suited for wearing around town, or short day hikes in cold weather.

But these days, the boxy cut isn’t your only option anymore. More and more outdoor gear manufacturers are shifting to a much more athletic cut down vest that has a significantly slimmer profile than their boxy brothers. These vests are your ideal layering option to wear under a coat, or stand alone in only slightly cool weather.

Therefore consider why you need a down vest, and pick out the best style from there based on your own personal preference. If you’re an avid outdoor adventurer who needs minimal bulk but significant insulation, opt for an athletic (or trim) cut vest designed for winter escapades. If, on the other hand, you need a cozy vest to wear around town, then the more puffy/boxy version may be for you.

The plethora of different styles and features associated with the best down vests unfortunately drives a wide range of prices. Premium down vests that are designed for maximum warmth retention and durability for high-intensity activities are often head-and-shoulders more expensive than their less fancy cousins.

Consider your intended use very carefully and plan your budget accordingly before deciding which vest is right for you. Spending $250 for a down vest designed for the mountains but only using it to drive to and from work is a cringe worthy waste of your hard-earned money. There are plenty of very warm and functional vests available at very accessible prices. But if you are planning to put your down vest through the wringer, then by all means go for the best.

FEATURES EXPLAINED

Material durability.

The outer shell of the vast majority of down vests is either nylon or polyester. These lightweight materials easily keep the down where it should be, and resist general use wear and tear. This material’s thickness is measured in deniers and the larger the number, the thicker the material – i.e. a 20D nylon is thinner than a 40D. Thick materials typically indicate increased durability, along with increased weight.

However, if you’re taking your new down vest climbing, or up into the mountains, or on a hiking trip , then a heavier but more resilient material may well be worth the extra cost and added bulk. But regardless of the thickness, a nick or tear or dirty smear is almost inevitable. Check out Backcountry’s advice on how to properly care for your vest in order to keep it in tip-top shape.

WEATHERPROOFING

Almost all adventurers agree that down’s achilles heel is moisture. Down works so well by trapping air inside the garment, and therefore creating a warm buffer between you and the elements. But if the down was to get wet it would collapse and clump up, and therefore remove your warm air pockets.

Many of the best down vests therefore feature some level of weather resistance in order to keep the rain and snow at bay. This most often takes form as a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish that will add at least some water resistance to the outer material. It’s important to note that this DWR finish may need a boost from time to time, and REI has excellent advice on how to care for and reapply this DWR coating .

PACKABILITY

One of the many benefits of down is that it squishes down very easily for transport, and then pops back up without losing any of it’s fluffy insulating characteristics. Many manufacturers will therefore include a stuff sack with their down vest for you to pack it down into. This is a very handy feature to look out for, and definitely makes it easy to stash your down vest in a bag for a day out in the elements.

Lacking this stuff sack, many down vests can simply be packed into one of their own pockets until you need it!

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Down Insulated Vests

How we choose : The best down insulated vests highlighted here were selected based on 37 reviews of 27 products. Our top picks are those that are readily-available in the United States and have received the highest overall ratings from reviewers.

How we test : Trailspace is powered entirely by our community of readers. The reviews posted here reflect the real-world experiences of outdoor enthusiasts just like you.

If you've used a down insulated vest that you think should be listed here, please share your experience .

Disclosure : Trailspace never accepts payment for gear reviews, product placement, or editorial coverage. When you buy through affiliate links on our site, Trailspace may earn a small commission, which helps cover the costs of running the site.

The North Face Nuptse Vest

I have found this vest very warm and it can be used on many different situations. I live in Finland, and this winter it has been extremely cold, the temperature has dropped below -25 C. But with Pumori Fleece and Nuptse vest under my TNF Mountain jacket it was feeling fine. And the Nuptse is a good vest to be used on brakes etc. In -5 C you can ski with only a T-shirt or some base layer under your shell jacket, but when you stop it gets very cold very fast. In those situations I have found the Nuptse Vest to be very good when dressed over your shell jacket.

Read more : The North Face Nuptse Vest reviews (7)

Patagonia Down Sweater Vest

This is a great vest for everyday use, but is also durable enough to use in many outdoor activities. Made from light and fluffy 800 fill down, this vest keeps your core warm and can pack down smaller than a softball.

Reasons to Buy

• Compact - includes
• Nice zippered pockets
• Lightweight

Reasons to Avoid

• Down comes out periodically

Because Patagonia makes gear that's out of my price range, I either have to save up some money for a while to get what I want, or I have to wait for things to go on sale (or sometimes both). At $179 MSRP, this vest was way out of my price range until last year when my local gear shop had a promotion. I own a Patagonia fleece (here's the review: https://www.trailspace.com/gear/patagonia/synchilla-snap-t/#review32187) and it's lasted for over 10 years so I was confident in purchasing this vest.

Read more : Patagonia Down Sweater Vest review (1)

Eddie Bauer Downlight StormDown Vest

A good 800 fill goose down vest with DriDown DWR treatment.

• Excellent quality European 800 fill down
• DriDown DWR treatment
• Elasticized arm holes
• True to size
• Zippered pockets
• Collar could use a bit more fill

I first bought an Eddie Bauer First Ascent light down jacket five years ago and have been very happy with it. I've used it for hunting, skiing (a lot), and winter backcountry hiking as well as around town (see my avatar). I decided I needed a vest that would be warmer than my 300 weight fleece vest so I bought the EB First Ascent mainly because I wanted DWR on all my down garments going forward and I trust First Ascent quality. This vest has DriDown DWR treatment on the down which is what I have been looking for.

Read more : Eddie Bauer Downlight StormDown Vest review (1)

REI Down Vest

The is a good quality down vest that is available at a very reasonable price that I wouldn't hesitate to recommend to anyone looking to pick up a down vest to put in their pack.

• High quality construction
• Great REI warranty

I have been very focused on reducing the base weight of my pack and one area that I made a lot of changes to was what insulating layers I would bring for my summer hikes in the Sierras. My upper layer of clothes now consists of a base wicking shirt, a pullover lightweight fleece, a wind shirt, a down vest (the subject of this review), and my lightweight rain parka. With this collection of clothes I can handle anything I could encounter in the Sierras during July and August. For my down insulating layer I first considered bringing a down Patagonia jacket that I own that has served me well, but it weighed 12.5 oz's and with my focus on weight I went looking see what I could do to reduce that weight without breaking the bank.

Read more : REI Down Vest review (1)

MontBell Superior Down Vest

Great for layering! Montbell’s UL Down Vest is a great addition to a layering system that will help keep you warm while weighing about the same as your average t-shirt. It is not the top of the class, but for the price, weight savings, and effectiveness, I say it is a good choice.

• Large zipper pockets
• Great for layering
• Sizes are a bit big
• No elastic on waist
• Little to no wind protection

I have had my vest for over 2 years now. It went with me on the first 1,000 miles of the AT and on several overnight and weekend trips locally. If I am not wearing it I have it rolled up and in the stuff sack that was included with it. I do my best to take care of all my gear and may go a bit OCD with it sometimes. This tends to lead to my gear lasting a very long time. This vest is available for men and women in a variety of colors and sizes. It has a ripstop ballistic nylon shell and 800 fill power goose down.

Read more : MontBell Superior Down Vest review (1)

MontBell Alpine Light Down Vest

Well fitting super light core insulator.

• Large armpit holes (helps breathability)
• Short hem (torso) length

This vest is 800 fill with a lighter ripstop shell with dwr finish. It has  two internal dump pockets, (great for gloves or something you want to keep warm or dry out) and two fleece lined zippered hand pockets (down on the outside of the hands when inserted.) It has a drawstring hem with cord locks and a 3 inch fleece lined collar. I got a medium and the fit is snug (5.10  175 lbs) but the larger arm holes alow lighter layering underneath without restriction. The larger arm holes also allow great armpit venting and this makes it a great layering piece.

Read more : MontBell Alpine Light Down Vest review (1)

Eddie Bauer First Ascent Downlight Vest

Eddie Bauer's First Ascent has slowly but surely over the last 2 years built itself a quality line of outerwear that competes very nicely with Patagonia, Marmot, and Mountain Hardwear. Although it may not achieve the cool status of The North Face and doubt you will see young people on High School and College Campuses sporting their gear. But I think in terms of quality and price point it competes very nicely with the above brands.  Speaking of quality gear I'm reviewing their Downlight Vest which is  essentially their Downlight Sweater minus the sleeves (surprise!).

Read more : Eddie Bauer First Ascent Downlight Vest review (1)

Mountain Hardwear Phantom Vest

I love my Mountain Hardwear Phantom Vest! It’s lightweight, making it a good choice for outings when I want to bring along some core insulation, but don’t need a fully insulated jacket. I tend to have a cold thermostat when resting or sleeping, but heat up quickly as long as I’m moving. The Phantom Vest finds the perfect balance.

• 800 fill-down packs small
• Good warmth-to-weight ratio
• It's a vest for your core, not full insulation
• Puffy, not for a svelte look

While it’s lightweight and not too bulky, the 800-fill down keeps me plenty warm while riding cold, windy chairlifts in places like New England and Colorado, without overheating me on the runs down. And due to its weight and small compressed size it also makes a good just-in-case layer for backpacking or hiking in cold weather or for wearing around camp on cold evenings. I have my vest in shark (a very dark grey-black color) and while the vest is obviously a technical outdoors piece, I don’t feel conspicuous wearing it around town during Maine winters, though it is a bit puffy.

Read more : Mountain Hardwear Phantom Vest reviews (2)

Big Agnes Late Lunch Vest

** Please see the addendum at the end of this review Big Agnes has applied their knowledge of down to their foray into apparel. The women’s Late Lunch Vest uses 700 fill power DownTek water repellent down, and they have applied their Insotect Flow vertical baffles which are designed to keep the wearer warm. While the down does shuck water, and the vest is warm, a major drawback is the vest’s fit. Warmth, durability, quality—fantastic! Fit…mmm – needs some tweaking.

• Nylon sheds water
• Feathers don’t mat when damp
• Fairly packable
• Deep pockets are high enough to be accessed while wearing a pack
• Good layering piece
• Inner stash pockets
• Tight arm holes
• Elastic piping doesn’t fit shoulders well
• uncomplimentary cut
• Doesn’t fit female figure well

Company Specs Mid-weight down vests with contoured fit and drop tail 700 fill power DownTek water repellent down Insotect Flow vertical baffles contour to your body to provide a more comfortable fit and keep you warmer Flow Gates eliminate down shifting to keep uniform insulation coverage Lightweight nylon rip-stop shell is wind and water resistant Adjustable drawcord at hem seals out wind Main zipper includes interior no-draft flap and a zipper garage at chin Fill Weight: 3 oz / 78 g Vest Weight: 9.5 oz / 269 g Fit & Comfort This test vest is a medium, and the actual fit of vest was fine in how it fitted shoulders and hips.

Read more : Big Agnes Late Lunch Vest review (1)

More Reviews of Down Insulated Vests

Trailspace reviewers have shared 37 reviews of 27 different down insulated vests.

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These Breezy Matching Sets Just Dropped at Amazon in Time for Summer Travel, and They’re All Under $50

From casual to sporty to dressy styles, find your look starting at just $25.

Travel + Leisure / Madison Woiten

When it comes to my go-to outfit for long travel days, I almost always wear a two-piece lounge set. Not only do I stay comfy and cozy, but I feel so much more put together in a matching set rather than leggings and a sweatshirt. So if you’re on the hunt for a new set before your upcoming summer vacation, look no further. Amazon has tons of newly released pieces, all under $50. 

The Amazon Fashion hub has tons of stylish and comfortable matching sets. We’ve done the legwork and gathered the 10 best finds that just dropped in time for summer. Take your pick of coordinating short-sleeve shirts and wide-leg pants or sleeveless tanks and flowy shorts. These versatile pieces are easy to throw on, style, and pack, so you can wear them to the airport, beach, and beyond. The best part? Popular finds start at just $25.

New Travel Sets at Amazon Under $50

• Anrabess Sleeveless Tank and Wide-leg Pants Set , $43 (originally $50)
• PrettyGarden Button-down Vest and Shorts Set , $49
• Zesica Tank Top and Wide-leg Pants Set , $33 with coupon (originally $42)
• Nenona Sleeveless Tunic Top and Shorts Set , $34 with coupon (originally $39)
• PrettyGarden V-neck Tank Top and Jogger Pants , $30 (originally $36)
• Automet Sleeveless Top and Shorts Set , $37 (originally $49)
• Anrabess Spaghetti-strap Tank and Pants Set , $46
• Wiholl Half-zip Short-sleeve Sweatshirt and Shorts , $34 (originally $40)
• PrettyGarden Cropped Vest and High-waisted Pants , $34 with coupon (originally $53)
• Ekouaer Short-sleeve Waffle Knit Top and Shorts , $29

Anrabess Sleeveless Tank and Wide-leg Pants Set

This matching two-piece set from Anrabess has been on my wishlist for a while, and I’m finally snagging it since it’s marked down to $43. The adorable set includes a sleeveless tank with a crew-neck cut and ruffled hem, as well as wide-leg pants that hit at the ankles. The set is made of a lightweight linen-rayon blend, to help keep you cool, and it's easy to layer a jacket or cardigan over if needed.

PrettyGarden Button-down Vest and Shorts Set

Get ready to look effortlessly European-chic in this button-down vest and shorts set . The sleeveless top and pleated high-waisted shorts provide a sleek summer style that you can wear from the office to the airport. Shoppers love how the set is easy to mix and match , too, offering tons of outfit options with just two pieces. For example, you can dress the vest up with a flowy skirt or pair the shorts with a basic T-shirt for a more relaxed look.

Zesica Tank Top and Wide-leg Pants Set

If you’re headed to the beach this summer, then you’re going to want to grab this matching set while it’s on sale — and don’t forget to apply the additional coupon. The outfit’s cropped tank includes thick straps that stay securely in place, a square neck that offers plenty of coverage, and a wavy trim detail along the top and bottom hem. The high-waist pants include flowy legs and built-in pockets to store your keys, earbuds, and other essentials. 

Nenona Sleeveless Tunic Top and Shorts Set

This knitted sleeveless tunic top and shorts set has been on Amazon for just a few months, and it’s already a best-selling new release . The comfortable lounge set is made with a polyester material that’s soft and lightweight. One shopper writes that the set is “insanely cozy, and I'll live in this all summer!” You can wear the pieces separately, too, pairing the top with jeans or biker shorts, for instance, and the bottom with an athletic top or T-shirt. It’s no wonder the popular set has been purchased by more than 500 shoppers in the past month. 

PrettyGarden V-neck Tank Top and Jogger Pants

This elevated tracksuit is the perfect travel set thanks to its stylish and comfortable design. The two-piece set comes with a sleeveless v-neck top and slouchy jogger pants that are soft and stretchy. The material is a combination of viscose and elastane, which offers plenty of room to move around. Pair with your favorite sneakers and crossbody, and you’re all set for takeoff or intercity traveling. 

Automet Sleeveless Top and Shorts Set

Keep things easy and breezy this summer with this matching tank top and shorts set. The two-piece outfit is made with a blend of linen and rayon that is lightweight and cooling. Several shoppers have comfortably worn this set during a cruise and on a girls trip , with one reviewer stating that “it was a perfect addition to my travel capsule [wardrobe].” Take your pick from 18 colors and sizes small to XL. 

Anrabess Spaghetti-strap Tank and Pants Set

Another popular choice is this breezy set , which is ideal for any tropical destination. The Amazon bestseller includes a spaghetti-strap tank top and wide-leg pants that you can loosen or tighten as needed, thanks to the built-in drawstring waist. Throw on flip-flops and wear it as a swimsuit coverup when you head to the beach, or dress it up with platform sandals and a woven handbag for date night. No matter how you choose to wear the set, you’re sure to love how you look and feel in it. 

Wiholl Half-zip Short-sleeve Sweatshirt and Shorts

A sweatsuit has never looked so chic. This sporty two-piece set is the perfect summer outfit, thanks to the sleeveless half-zip sweatshirt and high-waisted shorts, which come with a built-in drawstring. The soft, stretchy material is made out of a rayon, polyester, and spandex blend, so you can move comfortably. You can easily mix and match this set as well by swapping the bottoms out for leggings and the top for a thin long-sleeve. 

PrettyGarden Cropped Vest and High-waisted Pants

The suit sets are so cute, we had to include another option! This v-neck vest and pleated pants set are just waiting to be worn along the cobblestone streets of Greece or Italy. The sleeveless top features a lapel collar, two buttons up the front, and a cropped cut that perfectly matches with the high-waisted pants. Although the pants taper at the ankle, one reviewer writes that the pants are a “10/10” before adding that the style “still stays breezy and loose.” 

Ekouaer Short-sleeve Waffle Knit Top and Shorts

You can’t go wrong with a casual lounge set, especially if you plan to wear it beyond traveling. This waffle knit short-sleeve and shorts set features an overall loose fit that’s perfect to wear whenever you plan to kick back and relax but still want to look cute. One shopper says the set is so comfortable, they even wear it as pajamas. Choose from nine vibrant shades and sizes small to XXL. (Pro tip: size up for an even comfier fit!)

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Elektrostal, visit elektrostal, check elektrostal hotel availability, popular places to visit.

• Electrostal History and Art Museum

You can spend time exploring the galleries in Electrostal History and Art Museum in Elektrostal. Take in the museums while you're in the area.

• Cities near Elektrostal

• Places of interest
• Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center
• Central Museum of the Air Forces at Monino
• Peter the Great Military Academy
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• Bykovo Manor
• Balashikha Arena
• Ramenskii History and Art Museum
• Malenky Puppet Theater
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• Balashikha Museum of History and Local Lore
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