User Review: Mammut Stratus Vest

Mammut Stratus Vest
Above: The current Stratus Vest, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed October 21, 2007 by Delmarco

Rating: rated 5 of 5 stars
Fabric: Micro Lite Tex Performance
Fill: 60 g/m MTI Performance (by Ajungilak)
Price Paid: $77

OVERVIEW: Another great classic from Mammut! The Stratus Vest is versatile, packable and warm and one of those gear that grow on you over time as you realize how necessary it is.

Great for when it's not too cold for a full on parka, but fleece or softshells aren't enough after the sunsets. I've carried and used this piece 12 months out of the year and its so light you wont know its in your pack until you need it.

COMPARISONS: This is a one of a kind item and its closest competitor (in the US) is Patagonia's ultra delicate and cute Puffball Vest and North Face's burly Optimus Vest. I've tried out the Puffball Vest and found the Stratus to be more durable and much better fitting (The protective collar of the Stratus zips all the way up to your nose and the hemline can be extended low enough to cover and protect your delicates-The puffball lacked those features).

SIZING NOTE: Mammut's European cut clothing usually tend to fit smallish so I ordered a large and immediately found I needed a medium (which is my normal size).

When the weather heats up this MTI Stratus Vest compresses into the chest pocket and becomes the size of a large apple.

BUYERS NOTE: At a local shop I noticed Mammut updated this vest and the winter 06/07 models where a little thinner and lower quality (loose stitching, cheaper zippers, etc...) than the winter 05/06 model I own. I'm not sure the reason for the downgrade, but now MAMMUT no longer makes the vest so they are now sold online at various dealers for low prices. This is good but be sure to ask what year vest you are getting and remember my review is based on the 05/06 model Stratus Vest.

BOTTOM LINE: Definitely recommend this rare and hard to find item! If you see it on sale anywhere be sure to not pass it over.

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