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Layering has never been easier. Thanks to high-performance fabrics and changing tastes, the era of “bulky” warmth is gone. These days, a man can stay warm and sleek-looking by piling it on smartly, and there’s not a layering piece out there more versatile than the vest.
Today’s vest is technical, functional and versatile. A quality one will not only keep you warm, but it’ll also keep you cool in case of a warm snap. Below, you’ll find 15 of the season’s best vest offerings, in a range of different style and price points.
Flint and Tinder Quilted Waxed Vest
Flint and Tinder’s Quilted Waxed Vest offers a rugged version of the layering piece, thanks to the durable British Millerain waxed canvas, the original creators of the fabric. While the vest would make a handsome and reliable companion on brisk winter morning in the countryside, it would just as easily translate to a more metropolitan setting.
Alex Mill Reversible Sherpa Utility Vest
While at first this just looks like your standard fleece vest, flip it inside out and you’ve got a padded one instead. Depending on what the whether calls for or how cozy you want to feel, expose the fleece to the elements or keep it close to you for added warmth.
Todd Snyder Reversible Donegal Wool Quilted Vest
Todd Snyder melds two seemingly opposing styles with this Donegal Wool Quilted Vest, offering both a polished tweed side and a technical diamond-quilted side in vibrant orange. Whether you need to look a little more put together via the tweed side or seek warmth from the Primaloft of the quilted nylon, the vest allows you to seamlessly transition between varying degrees of casualness.
J.Crew Sussex Quilted Vest with PrimaLoft
Sometimes you just need a vest you can grab last-minute and throw on, all while knowing that it will look nice regardless of what you’re wearing. For those occasions consider J.Crew’s Sussex Quilted Vest, a lightweight vest that lends itself well to those unpredictable winter days when it’s neither too hot nor too cold, but a full jacket would prove to be sweltering.
L.L.Bean Mountain Classic Down Vest
This Mountain Classic Down from L.L.Bean is packed with 650-fill DownTek, down insulation that both repels water and provides optimal warmth, proving to stay dry 10 times longer than untreated down.
Uniqlo Ultra Light Down Compact Vest
Uniqlo’s Ultra Light Down is the ideal layering piece, simple enough that it won’t detract from your outfit while still providing a much-needed dose of warmth. Plus, it’s so light and thin that you’ll hardly even notice it’s there, all while reaping the benefits.
Patagonia Reversible Bivy Down Vest
Go retro with Patagonia’s Reversible Bivy Down, which is reversible thanks to the fleece lining. The contrasting upper color blocked upper and lower harkens back to the ski vests of the 1970s, perfect for hitting the slopes in style.
Filson Down Cruiser Vest
Crafted from Filson’s water- and wind-repellent Cover Cloth, the Down Cruiser is then further reinforced with oil finish Shelter Cloth on the pockets and lower back, areas prone to abrasion and you can rest easy knowing that lightweight goose down filling is ethically sourced. It’s the perfect layer for when you want the look of a puffer yet in fabric that’s less sporty and more rugged than the typical nylon.
Aimé Leon Dore Filled Vest
Featuring a silhouette similar to that of a waistcoat, the Aimé Leon Dore’s Filled makes the case for the ultimate vest for layering underneath one’s outerwear. The snap-buttons will instantly smarten up any outfit while still remaining casual and capable of keeping you warm.
Carhartt WIP Vest
If you’re in search of a vest you can toil tirelessly in, you’d be wise to go with one equipped to the task, like this hardy workwear vest from Carhartt WIP. Crafted from a heavyweight, non-stretch canvas, it’s designed specifically to endure whatever you see fit to put it through.
Taylor Stitch Able Vest
Yet another reversible option, this one differs from the typical fleece/nylon versions in that it offers two different patterns, both made from wool beach cloth. The dark muted tones of both patterns make it an easy and versatile layering piece, all while helping to elevate an otherwise simple outfit.
Gap Layering Vest
Add some much needed color to your winter wardrobe with Gap’s Layering Vest in a dark hunter green and a contrasting orange lining. The green still proves manageable enough to style while the hunting orange will make for a nice and welcomed surprise as as quick flash of color underneath your outerwear.
Needles Plaid Fleece Vest
Combining contemporary streetwear with traditional menswear, this fleece vest from Needles is made for those days when you’re less concerned about functionality and warmth, and simply want to look good. The boxy silhouette helps to balance out the slightly formal feel of the plaid, making for a piece that can easily be thrown over a sweatshirt or hoodie without looking out of place.
Mango Suede Quilted Gilet
This gilet isn’t exactly practical for any forecast predicting rain or snow (unless you want to ruin the luxurious suede) but just think how nice it will look on those crisp and clear winter days. Just think of it as your special occasion vest.
Nike Heritage Insulated Vest
On those days when you can’t decide whether you want to wear a quilted vest or one that’s fleece, opt for both with Nike’s Heritage Insulated. The top half features bulb-quilting while the bottom is crafted from cozy sherpa fleece, offering the best of both worlds.
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