Fleece Vests

Recent Fleece Vest Reviews

Patagonia Retro Pile Vest

A versatile insulator. From cutting the chill on a spring day to augmenting core warmth on really cold ones, this soft, comfortable fleece does the job. Don't expect it to stop any wind, as even a mild breeze runs right through this, unless you wear it under a shell. Brand new, it sheds until you wash or tumble dry it, and durability/pilling could be a longer-term issue. OVERVIEW I had been eyeing the Retro Pile Jacket when I received this as a gift. Mine is size XL and weighs 14.4 ounces on an… Full review

Patagonia Better Sweater Vest

The Better Sweater Vest is a slimmer fleece-like vest that functions well for both outdoor and casual pursuits. Conditions: In January 2015, I put a call out for recommendations (link to thread) to the Trailspace community for good-quality vests that could pull double duty; warm enough for cold season layering, stylish enough for occasional wear in business casual situations. After looking at many suggestions and weighing prices, I settled on the Patagonia Better Sweater Vest. Fortunately, I found… Full review

Black Diamond CoEfficient Vest

The Black Diamond Coefficient Vest is a worthy addition to the gear list for anyone venturing out to cool or cold places. It serves well as a mid-layer in colder weather, or even as a top layer in moderate to warmer temperatures and while active. It’s compact, and light, so it's easy to carry along. It's also durable so it can be counted on out on the trail. The reviewer getting ready for a hike along the California coast updated 20-Apr-2014 with confirmed weight Review Conditions Due to personal… Full review

Patagonia Better Sweater Vest

It's a good lookin' fleece vest. It fits nicely like most pata stuff. It is a little big in the arm holes. Fits nicely in the chest, fairly slim. I'm 6' 160 and I have a medium.  It looks nice in the reddish color.   The vest is not super warm, it is only about 150 weight fleece, but for the weight it is very good. The zippers on it are kind of loud and have lots of resistance which is strange. Bought it off ebay NWT. It is a good piece for skiing or casual wear. I don't think it will make the… Full review

Mountain Hardwear Bedlam Vest

Of all the fleece vests I have owned, this is one. So I usually wear Columbia fleece vests that I pay about twenty bucks for on sale. Mine finally wore out (zipper died) so I got this MH one on sale in Butte. I am not a huge MH fan because their gear, to me, is overpriced and over promoted, but this time the sale price got me.  I especially liked the idea of shoulder patches for pack straps, even though I doubt they will extend the life of the thing too much. I also like the big inside packets… Full review

Patagonia Classic Retro-X Vest

Great vest. Looks and is very comfy. Can wear as casual vest around town but works fantastic for hiking. I wore this vest as my primary hiking layer (over nylon shirt) for my hike up to the Everest basecamp. Wore pretty much the whole way up, alone up to maybe 4000m. Definitely windproof. Seems a little stiff straight out of the package, but loosens up wonderfully with some use, but still maintains windproof capabilities. Only issues - this is more designed for casual use, around camp and not as… Full review

Patagonia Classic Retro-X Vest

Haven't had a chance to truly test this garment out yet as its not going to be very chilly for a while where I live, but initial impressions are: It is very lightweight, lighter than I expected. Windproof qualities are great. Appears well built and durable. Fits very snug. And it's warm. The vest is overall capable and nice looking, but seems a tad expensive. Full review

The North Face Denali Vest

One of my better vests, I usually go to if I want to wear a vest even though I have other vests. Does what it needs to do very well. Got it in size XXL. Had to send it in for worn out zipper pulls, but that was after many years of use. I only had to pay postage to send it back to the mothership North Face manufacturer. Repairs are free.  Full review

Sierra Designs Backcountry Vest

This vest has been in heavy backcountry, carpentry, indoor and outdoor, casual evening dress use for 20 plus years and is still going strong. I have looked at all brands including Sierra Designs for over 10 years to replace it. Its qualities and versatility cannot be matched by any product made today that I can find. Everyone I have met and talked to would like to know where to get one. I will work with anyone and do whatever it takes to have another one produced. This vest is the most important… Full review