We love how versatile the three-season L.L. Bean Mountain Classic Down Vest II (available for men and women) is for a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, snowshoeing, and more. We found that it fit true to size with a tailored look that didn’t feel too tight and it was easy to layer. We loved the built-in features, particularly the hood with strings that allow for tightening in the wind or rain for extra protection from the elements. 

Other features we appreciated are the cozy fleece-lined pockets with zippers and the water- and dirt-resistant exterior fabric. The puffy design provided extra warmth and, during our tests, we determined that the sleeve openings offer a solid range of motion. The materials feel high-quality and durable, and we noted that it was easy to keep clean. Whether we layered it over a t-shirt or under a heavier jacket, we found that it was a versatile piece, though pairing it with another hooded item might make it feel too bulky. In addition to being very functional, we appreciated that this vest is crafted from PFC/PFAS-free (chemical-free) fabrics. The wide range of sizing that it comes in makes it a great fit for most body types, too.

The Details: Size XXS-XL women’s and S-3XL men’s | Polyester and nylon | Water-resistant

We love a nice cozy fleece vest and the simple, yet versatile, design of the Patagonia Better Sweater Fleece Vest for women and men features soft and high-quality materials. We found the fit to be flattering and appreciated that it was comfortable and roomy for layering without looking or feeling bulky. The exterior knit fabric feels durable and didn’t show signs of wear or use after testing it on multiple occasions. 

The pocket zippers all worked seamlessly throughout our tests and, after washing the vest, it came out just like new. We liked the length and solid color design throughout, making it easy to pair with a wide array of clothing items, from flannels to heavier jackets.

The Details: Size XXS-XXL women’s and XS-3XL men’s | Recycled polyester

Fjällräven is one of my go-to outdoor brands and I own several of their products, including the Women’s Vardag Pile Fleece Vest. I love the relaxed style and long torso length for pairing with leggings and large pile fleece for that extra cozy feel. We appreciated the deep pockets for storing phones, wallets, and other important items when spending time outdoors. Despite the thicker fleece fabric, it’s surprisingly packable and its timeless look can bring you comfort while spending time outside and then going straight into town for dinner out. 

We found it to be warm, but breathable with the flat knit jersey interior, which was effective in blocking wind. Our tests determined that this vest is very durable and appropriate for a wide range of activities, showing no wear or tear after multiple uses, in line with the Fjällräven brand.

The Details: Size XXS-XL women’s and XS-XXL men’s | Recycled polyester

The Alo Incline Puffer Vest scored high points with us in the style department, with a boxy, but edgy design, tailored torso, and high turtleneck collar that pairs well with slim-cut jeans or leggings. The vest is plush and retains heat well without making you feel overheated. We liked the high neckline for extra coverage on cold and windy days and the nylon exterior fabric also helped protect against the elements.

We found it easy to layer, making it a versatile piece that could go from sightseeing to Sunday brunch with friends. The zippers functioned smoothly and we appreciated that the condition remained top-notch, even after washing. We also noted that the pockets are spacious and perfect for holding everything from your phone to a snack.

The Details: Size XS-L | Nylon and elastane

For active outdoor pursuits like snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, the Columbia Arctic Crest Down Vest for men and women earned top points throughout our tests. While we found this vest to be a very warm, insulating layer, it also worked well in warmer temperatures with a lighter shirt underneath, or unzipped for more ventilation. We appreciate how lightweight it is, making it portable for traveling, and it didn’t weigh us down while hiking. 

We really liked the flexibility this vest offers for a wide variety of weather conditions and temperatures. The vest feels durable and well-made, and didn’t snag even when hiking in brush and taller grasses. It also washed easily without showing any signs of wear and tear or fading. 

The Details: Size XS-XXL women’s and S-XXL men’s | Nylon and 700 fill power goose down insulation | Water-resistant

The Eddie Bauer Men’s Reissue Original Down Bomber Vest was our top pick for a puffer design vest, with its tailored fit and insulating warmth. We liked the bungees along the bottom hem that allow for tightening to trap in heat and provide extra protection. We felt that the stitching was durable and the materials were overall very high quality.

The inside also felt plush and soft without adding heft to the vest while wearing, all of which remained intact after washing. We appreciated the style, but felt that an extra interior pocket would help it be a little more functional.

The Details: Size S-XXL | Polyester | Water-resistant

We found the Montbell Thermawrap Vest for men and women to be our favorite vest for hiking endeavors. It’s incredibly thin and lightweight, but still manages to provide impressive warmth. We liked the slightly longer length and the included stuff sack for easy packing and portability. We noticed that the design fits well around the waist and our arms didn’t feel restricted at all. 

Even though it’s reversible, so you can choose between a lighter and darker shade, it still has pockets on both sides. Thanks to its slim profile, we found that it felt nice underneath extra layers without bulk. It also does an incredible job of retaining heat for such a thin vest, even in cold and wet conditions.

The Details: Size S-XL women’s and S-XL men’s | Nylon and synthetic insulation | Water-resistant

We loved the quilted design of the Athleta Whisper Featherless Vest. It feels soft and warm for casual activities like running errands or touring a new city. Although the style is long, it does cinch in the waist for a more tailored and stylish look. We found it easy to zip up and felt that it worked best as a top layer, not under a coat.

The padding feels thick and durable, but wearing the vest feels lightweight. We appreciate that it’s machine washable on the gentle cycle. The pockets are spacious and perfect for holding important items while commuting or grabbing lunch with friends. This vest pairs well with leggings since the longer length provides plenty of coverage.

The Details: Size XXS-3XL | Recycled nylon | Water-resistant