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The one piece of clothing every guy needs for in-between weather
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With fall almost in full swing, many are likely looking to refresh their wardrobe for the season. The earlier nights and cooler weather makes it the perfect time to highlight another of my favorite accessories of the season: the down vest.
Down vests are versatile, fashionable, and can function in almost any temperature. You’ll see stars of all types rocking the down vest with a ton of different looks, whether it’s Oscar Isaac during a shoot for GQ or Jordana Brewster taking a stroll with her kid.
Most notably, activist DeRay McKesson made his blue Patagonia down vest a part of his uniform as he traveled from city to city for different demonstrations. His vest-wearing was so prolific that it earned its own Twitter account.
Not only is the down vest having a bit of a moment in the cultural zeitgeist, it’s also perfect for layering this fall. For the next few months a vest might be all the insulation you need on top of whatever shirt you decide to wear out, and when the colder weather really hits us come January, it’s a great provider of extra warmth underneath your peacoat.
Below we’ve collected some of our favorite options. Check them out and see what look is right for you.
Mountain Hardware's vest is light and packable, making it great attire for a camping trip or an outdoor work project in the winter months. They also come in a variety of eye-catching color combinations, if you're looking for something with a bit more style than your run-of-the-mill vest.
This Theory Puffer Vest is quite fashionable with its oversized grid pattern. I wouldn't want to layer with this one, because it's too good-looking to not show off.
Few brands know more about how to properly keep people warm than Canada Goose. Founded in 1957 in Toronto, the company prides itself in being one of the world's leading makers of luxury apparel for surviving the elements. This vest is a solid example of their work.
Topo Designs keeps things simple with its down vest, while still providing most everything you need in a solid layer.
This quilted vest from J.Crew might be the most gentlemanly look on our list, giving off a vibe that you both know how to dress and handle an axe. P
When it comes to outdoor and weather-ready gear, there are few brands I trust more than Patagonia. In addition to being water-resistant, this vest is also reversible, giving you even more options when it comes to putting together your outfit.
If you're looking for a safe, affordable, sure bet this fall, look no further than this L.L.Bean two-tone vest. The brand responsible for some of the most popular winter boots in the world knows a thing or two about constructing cold-weather gear.
Another classy vest that looks more "business professional" than "aspiring mountaineer" for anyone wanting to keep up appearances while also keeping warm.
Uniqlo is another affordable option for anyone looking to grow their wardrobe without going over budget. While most of the vests on this list employ zippers, I'm a big fan of the snap button look offered here.
Club Monaco's Puffer Vest looks to be one of the most comfortable on this list and would probably, immediately, become one of the most comfortable items in your closet as well.
Penfield's Rockway Down Vest is a reimagining of its ever-popular jacket. Personally I'm a big fan of the plaid patterned shoulders; they give a bit more character to the look as a whole.
Patagonia also has a great fleece vest for anyone looking for a less-puffy option. The knitted, heathered polyester piece will sit easy on your shoulders while you layer over it.
Patagonia Better Sweater Fleece Vest, $69 - $99.
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