Down Insulated Vests

Recent Down Insulated Vest Reviews

The North Face Nuptse Vest

So many different sizes, very confusing. When I ordered this vest I did some research for size. The US, the European, and Asia sizes all are different. I didn’t mind to invest in a good vest, but wanted a good fit. I take XL size T shirt which is XXL Asia. Finally I chose the North Face chart for decision, here I was between size « L » and «  XL « Scared to be tight in L size, I chose XL. Bit anxious. Got my vest today and quickly try for size. First impression, nice and light. The fit is… Full review

Eddie Bauer Downlight StormDown Vest

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

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. 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… Full review

Patagonia Ultralight Down Vest

The thin profile allows for good layering options. Retains heat well and inner cords allow for getting a very good fit. I have owned many varieties of vests over the years. This vest packs easily for trips and holds its shape. I have been in very cold temperatures with this vest and it does a good job of keeping my torso warm. I have worn vests that are lower in price and nearly as comfortable and useful. You certainly pay for the name. Value is not one of the strengths of this vest. Overall the… Full review

MontBell UL 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. 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… Full review

Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer Down Vest

Sure, this vest only weighs 5 oz, but what are you really getting? I only paid 1/5 the price at a closeout sale, but it only weighs 4oz less than the down jacket I picked up at Walmart for $19.98 (1/12th the price)! Cut the sleeves out and there you are. The quality of this vest isn't THAT much better than the cheap Walmart jacket either. And they are both made in China. Though the retail price on this vest is $245!! Ridiculous in my opinion. I love my MH rain jacket, but I'm not very impressed… Full review

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. 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… Full review

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. Company Specs Mid-weight… Full review

Patagonia Ultralight Down Vest

I had never owned a down vest before, but the Patagonia Ultralight Down Vest is worth the investment. I have found that this vest can be used hiking, biking, around town, working outside or downstairs in my basement (very cold)!! It is an excellent core warmer and doesn't weigh anything. You forget you have it on. I would recommend this as an important part of your outdoor apparel. The Patagonia Ultralight Down Vest is going to become a favorite new piece in your outdoor collection. The vest is… Full review