Spring might mean it’s finally time to think about putting your winter coat in storage, but that doesn’t mean it’s all swim trunks and tees yet. You’re still going to need some sort of protection for the colder days, but there are alternatives to the standard jacket… like these vests. Each will give you freedom of movement and extra pockets in an easily removable layer–without looking like the Stay Puft Man.
Barbour Lowerdale Gilet Vest
Barbour has been making some of the best outerwear on the market for over a century, and it shows in the styling, details and price of all their pieces. When you remove sleeves from the equation though, the prices are downright affordable.
$179
Lands’ End Down Vest
If you’re more concerned with simplicity and affordability than labels, a plethora of pockets and fancy patterns, this Lands’ End down vest is a perfect transitional piece between the winter coat and tee seasons.
$39
Aether Space Vest
Like everything else Aether Apparel, the Space Vest is a stripped down, streamlined, no bullshit piece of clothing. It’s lightweight enough to fit under a suit or get smashed in your bag, but insulated enough to keep you warm when it gets chilly.
$175
Spiewak Ranger Vest
Geometric quilted design, chest snap hand pockets and snap-flap hand pockets make this is a great vest to throw over a henley on those brisk, cool days when you don’t need a full jacket but still want pocket space.
$150
1901 Shawl Collar Puffer Vest
Like any house brand, 1901 tends to produce pieces similar to others you’ve seen but at a more affordable price. When you’re talking about Nordstrom’s house brand though, you can expect details like a trimmer fit, shawl collar and patch pockets—all of which you’ll find on this staple puffer vest.
$45
Filson Mackinaw Wool Vest
This classic Filson vest is naturally water repellent, warm and has standard hand-warming pockets, along with utility pockets for pens, pencils, tools, etc. The armholes are also cut a little wider for freedom of movement, so it’s perfect for working outside.
$135
Ralph Lauren Denim & Supply Quilted Hunting Vest
A more modern, tailored take on the standard hunting vest, you get one chest patch pocket and a thin, nylon covering with a full zip in a color that would fit in the outdoors, plus it looks better than the alternative camo option covered in ducks.
$70
Topo Designs Puffer Vest
Over a chambray workshirt, a plaid flannel or a light blue oxford, the super light, quick drying, ultra packable Primaloft filled Topo Designs puffer vest is the perfect outer layer for those days when it might get chilly but you don’t want to wear that extra layer all the time.
$149
