Fall Recommendation: Down Vests

The seasons are finally changing, and as crisper weather rolls in, may we recommend that you turn to a vest when you're chilled? We all love our Westmorland and Retro-X vests at Archival, but we also have a soft spot for goose down. There's nothing lighter and more magically insulating, and they make a great pillow when you're backpacking. Here's a round-up of some historical models pulled from Backpacker Magazine and eBay, as well as some current offerings.

Crescent Down Works (offered by South Willard)

Feathered Friends Helios and Hyperion Vests

Western Mountaineering Flash Vest

Synthetic Exceptions: Vests

Barbour Keeperwear Quilted Vest

Barbour Keeperwear Fleece Vest

Western Mountaineering Flash Vest

Patagonia Retro-X Vest (for Women)

Under certain circumstances, I'll endorse the purchase of an outerwear garment made out of synthetic materials. My rule of thumb is that one must restrict oneself to plastic vests rather than jackets (less surface area to snag or ignite in flames). If I'm going to make the purchase, I'll use the following synthetics selection criteria: item must be filled with real goose down (Western Mountaineering), item must make use of mile high, 100% polyester shag pile (Patagonia Retro X vest), or item must be made in the UK, be labeled a "waistcoat" and come with cartridge pockets (bonus: contrasting suede patches on the shoulders).

Here's a photo showing a plastic vest (an old Barbour Keeperwear vest) in its proper context.