Down vest?

[Grouch]

Who uses a down vest and when? These are becoming fashionable and I know they've been around awhile as practical wear, too, but I've never tried one. Why should I buy one and what features should it have?

 

[zackfraser]

I wear a down vest almost daily in the winter, since it doesn't get terribly cold in GA. Don't laugh but I got mine at the GAP about 3-4 years ago, and it is still going strong. I like them because I can still have a free range of movement but still be very warm. I'm 50/50 when it comes to the filler. Goose down is very warm, but bulky, and doesn't dry as fast if it gets wet. The Thinsulate filled ones don't seem as warm to me, but they are more compact.

 

[DWK2]

I have a substantial REI vest with sturdy fabric and probably something like 550 cu in/oz down fill. If you want something light for backpacking or fast trail hiking, check www.featheredfriends.com. I believe they will even customize one for you, if you desire (they did so on a friend's jacket and on my winter overbag).

I also like the Western Mountaineering down clothing. I have their ultralight Flight Jacket and I believe they make a similar vest. I believe both WM and FF use down that lofts around 850 cu in/oz, plus lighter fabrics. Made in USA.

DancesWithKnives

 

[mete]

I have a down vest and down jacket from Browning but they are always worn under a shell. That's so they don't get wet and the thin fabric doesn't get torn.They take a long time to dry unless you put them in a drier. They are very warm though especially if you get good brands.

 

[Sid Post]

I like a good vest in cold office buildings. They also work great in layering when you need to add or take away a little cold weather protection. A down vest also packs down really small when you are out walking in a park so, it's easy to stuff into or take out of a wind breaker pocket.

 

[smegs]

I'm a wool or synthetic guy but I always packed a down vest in my bag. Once camp was set up, on went the down vest. It was like turning on the heat.