Vested Interest: The Best Gilets & Down Vests For Autumn

Editor’s Note: This story on bespoke watches originally appeared in Volume III of B.H. Magazine. For access to future issues, subscribe here.

Rodd & Gunn ‘Lake Ferry’ Vest

A warm hug of a vest, quilted with high-loft insulation, from the quintessential Kiwi clothier. The ‘Lake Ferry’ takes its name from a small coastal settlement in the North Island – just the sort of kit you’ll want to be wearing whilst ranging through pristine New Zealand countryside.

Arc’teryx ‘Atom’ Vest

Arc’teryx’s ‘Atom’ vest is to lovers of gorpcore what the Air Jordan 1 is to sneakerheads. A masterstroke of synthetic insulation – equally suited to wear as a jacket or midlayer – the Atom is constructed using multiple proprietary technologies and stays warm and light even under torrential conditions.

Warehouse x Rocky Mountain Featherbed Down Vest

Made in Japan, with unwavering accuracy to the original Rocky Mountain Featherbed designs of the 1960s, this down vest is fit to bursting with ‘Big Wyoming’ energy. Thoughtful signature details – such as the horsehide yoke and colour-contrasted nylon lining – make it easy to spot a mile away.

Universal Works Zip Gilet In Ombre Fleece

From the Nottingham-based masters of “real, honest clothing” comes this fleecy number – well-suited to knitwear and wide-legged chinos. As with all Universal Works clothing, the execution is commendable. Pockets have been angled for ease of entry, and the otherwise classic mid-weight fabric sports a progression of toasty, autumnal hues.

Tracksmith ‘Harbor’ Vest

Filled with the military-grade microfibre insulation known as Primaloft®, Tracksmith boasts – credibly – that its ‘Harbor’ sleeveless is the ultimate example of “weightless warmth.” Designed by and for runners, this one’s a handy companion over long distances. We love the practicality of the vented lower back.

ROA Light Down Vest

About as far as one can get from the cliché ‘dude in finance’ gilet. Cult Italian label ROA has engineered this lightweight vest with a quilted, all-over diamond pattern. What lies beneath? Genuine 90/10 goose down. Oversized chest pockets, in a tonal camo green, complete the package – more than roomy enough for all your trail mix needs.

Snow Peak Flexible Insulated Vest

This layer channels the same clean, understated aesthetic as the many camping goods which have made Snow Peak into a household name among well-heeled outdoorsmen. Up-cycled polyester and Primeflex impart stretch and water resistance – all without adding visual bulk. Light enough to be worn for three quarters of the year.

Gramicci x And Wander Down Vest

What’s better than one #IYKYK performance-wear brand? Two, obviously. In addition to Gramicci’s storied rock climbing heritage, this design draws on the future-forward vision of And Wander. The insider-y Japanese label’s influence is expertly embodied in small details – like a set of reflective chest pockets or use of a distinctive, Rorschach-esque camo pattern.

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