Which men’s down vests are best?
Down vests are versatile garments for fall and spring and help provide extra warmth during the colder winter months. They come in many different styles and colors and are as much a fashion statement as they are an important piece of winter apparel. The down-filled lining does an excellent job keeping the core heated so that the extremities can maintain a consistent blood flow to also keep them warm. For men who are active, The North Face Men’s Aconcagua 3 Insulated Vest is a great choice.
What to know before you buy a men’s down vest
You want a vest that doesn’t impede your movement
Choosing the right size for your down vest is important. You want a down vest that fits close to your body but still allows you to move freely. You don’t want a vest that is too big or it won’t keep you warm. Only go up a size if you plan on wearing multiple layers underneath the vest.
You want a vest that repels water
Look for down vests that have treated the down filling to be water repellent. This is referred to as hydrophobic down. If down gets wet, it loses its ability to keep you warm, so keeping moisture away is critical.
You want a vest that doesn’t weigh you down
Lightweight vests are the most popular because of their versatility and ease in transporting. Even lightweight vests can keep you warm. Look for vests that can be folded quickly and stored in one of the pockets or an accompanying stuff sack.
What to look for in a quality men’s down vest
Extra warmth
When it comes to warmth, the down is the most important, but there are several other features that are important for keeping warm: a flip-up collar that protects your neck from cold winds, elastic cuffs around your wrists and a drawstring hem on the waist that traps warmth inside the vest. Look for these additional features to ensure you stay warm and comfortable.
Zippered pockets
Most down vests feature zippered pockets on both sides. The zippers ensure that you don’t lose anything stored inside. This is important if you are participating in a sport or outdoor activity that has you on the move. Some vests come with a zippered pocket inside the chest area as well.
Outer material
You want a vest that can stand up to the elements such as wind, rain, snow and even the occasional tree branch. Both nylon and polyester are tear-resistant as well as windproof and waterproof.
How much you can expect to spend on a men’s down vest
The price range for men’s down vests runs from as little as $20 to $40 for bulky, bargain options. For high-end vests that are designed for style and rugged durability, expect to spend $80 to $120.
Men’s down vest FAQ
Is goose or duck down better for a vest?
A. Both types of down do a good job keeping you warm and repelling the elements. Geese, because they are bigger than ducks, have larger down clusters that tend to last a little longer.
What does RDS certification indicate?
A. The Responsible Down Standard (RDS) is an organization that works with manufacturers to educate them about animal welfare and certify that they are using down sourcing practices that are cruelty-free.
What are the best men’s down vests to buy?
Top men’s down vest
The North Face Men’s Aconcagua 3 Insulated Vest
What you need to know: For a down vest that is stylish, lightweight and able to stand up to the elements, it’s hard to beat this vest from The North Face, a trusted brand in outdoor gear.
What you’ll love: This versatile vest features a blend of recycled 600-fill waterfowl down and recycled polyester insulation for superior warmth. For extra protection from the elements, it includes a non-PFC durable water-repellent finish, zippered pockets and a chin guard. It comes in six different colors and a wide range of sizes.
What you should consider: Some users wished it had a drawstring cinch at the bottom.
Top men’s down vest for the money
Eddie Bauer Men’s CirrusLight Down Vest
What you need to know: This men’s down vest is extremely light and versatile for active users who may want to quickly pack it up before or after wearing.
What you’ll love: Made from recycled nylon, this machine-washable 650-down vest is windproof and water-repellent. It has a high neckline for extra warmth and two interior pockets. Available in six colors, it also features zippered hand pockets to keep your essentials secure.
What you should consider: Some users were surprised by how lightweight the vest is, but its design is intended for on-the-go wearers.
Worth checking out
Lands’ End Men’s Wanderweight Ultralight Packable Down Vest
What you need to know: From a well-known and trusted outdoor apparel manufacturer, this down vest looks great and is very comfortable.
What you’ll love: The lightweight nylon shell includes 800-fill down and is also water-resistant and machine-washable. Interior storm flap keeps out the wind and cold. It features two zippered hand pockets and one zippered chest pocket. Pack it up in the included carrying pouch to easily take it on the go.
What you should consider: It is a lightweight vest, so it may be too thin for some.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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