Five Plus One is our weekly series of buyer’s guides. We pick a specific category and dig up five great options along with one that’s a little outside the norm.
If the weather is brisk but you don’t feel the need for a full jacket, then an in puffer vest can be just the answer. Whether it’s filled with down or synthetic fillers, the insulation will given you warmth while the lack of sleeves will keep things breathable. Just toss it over your favorite outfit and you’re ready to head out the door.
1) RAINS: Trekker Vest
RAINS’ Trekker vest is made in a classic style with a 57%/43% polyester/polyurethane and supposedly eco-friendly DuPont Sorona insulation. It features two zippered hand pockets, one internal pocket, and a half-height collar for added warmth. Available in a wide range of colors, this vest is easy to fit into nearly any wardrobe and inexpensive to boot.
Available for $105-149 from End.
2) Nanga: Mazeno Ridge Vest
If you are looking for an insulated vest that’s a bit more sporty, then Nanga’s Mazeno Ridge Vest is a great option. While it’s certainly not an entry level garment, this made in Japan vest has a ton of great details: 100% nylon ripstop fabric for both the exterior and lining, 760 fill power 90% duck down insulation, two front hand pockets, and one chest pocket. If you’re going to have one vest as a daily driver you can’t go wrong with the Mazeno Ridge.
Available for $390 from Hatchet Supply Co.
3) Uniqlo: Ultra Light Wave Quilt Compact Vest
If you are looking for an entry level vest, or simply want a puffer vest inexpensive enough to own in multiple colors, then Uniqlo’s Ultra Light Wave Quilt Compact Vest is the obvious choice. Made with a nylon exterior and 90% down fill, this vest is a great piece to add a bit of warmth on an otherwise chilly day. This collarless vest features a snapped front closure, v-neck pattern, and two front hand pockets. Available in three basic colors, this vest is an easy one to wear with just about anything already in your closet.
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Available for $40 from Uniqlo.
4) Sugar Cane: Leather Yoke Down Vest
Available for $420 from Blue in Green.
5) Ten C: Vest Down Liner
Don’t let it’s name fool you, Ten C’s Vest Down Liner functions perfectly well as a piece of outerwear, but also attaches to the inside of their jackets and coat for a warmer layering piece. It’s made with a nylon exterior, duck down feather fill, YKK zipper closure, and internal pocket. Finished with a stand-up insulted collar, this vest has everything you could want to keep you warm this winter.
Available for $425 from Division Road.
Plus One – Joe McCoy: Deerskin Down Vest
Joe McCoy’s Deerskin Down Vest is one of the most interesting insulated vests on the market. With a deerskin exterior, suede deerskin yoke, 675 fill 91.5% French duck down fill, two front hand pockets, universal zipper, and front snap closure, this vest doesn’t skimp anywhere. And with a price to match, this isn’t the kind of piece you buy on a whim, but if you’re looking to drop some serious cash on a vest that you’ll have for years and years to come then look no further.
Available for $1,450 from Clutch Cafe.
