Top 10 Cold Weather Vests
These 10 Trend-Proof Vests Will Stay In Your Closet For Seasons To Come
Our Top 10 Lists help shoppers quickly and easily find what they need. Using an intense review and approval process (which you can learn more about here), we break down the best styles according to what consumers most commonly search for and want.
Vests are definitely having a moment right now. Whether knit, puffy, or tailored, it's safe to say the fashion crowd is currently obsessed with all things sleeveless. But trendy as they may be, we're big believers that vests will always be a practical staple come fall and winter. They hit that sweet spot of being both stylish and super functional since they can shield you from the chilliest temps, and they're perfect for those in-between days that require lots of layers in the morning and way less later. They also work well with any outfit and occasion, whether that's leggings on your morning coffee run or jeans at your apple picking date.
Our point? Every wardrobe needs a great cold weather vest. To help you find one, we've rounded up a list of 10 classic, trend-proof options that'll stay in your rotation for seasons to come—think cozy, packable puffers that can withstand the elements and some of the prettiest fleece finds we've ever seen. No matter your budget or style, there's a chic, weather-ready vest on the list for every shopper.
How We Found The Best Cold Weather Vests
To round up this list, we turned to the help of our data-driven algorithm. This proprietary tool finds and ranks the best products on the internet by factoring in data from best-seller lists, editor recommendations, rave reviews, and more. Ahead, take a peek at the 10 cold weather vests that made the cut and snag your favorites.
Next up, check out the 10 Best Fleece Jackets. Opening image: jcrew.com
November 11, 2021
Top 10 Lists serve as unbiased shopping guides to the most trusted product recommendations on the internet. Products are scored and ranked using an algorithm backed by data consumers find most valuable when making a purchase. We are reader-supported and may earn a commission when you shop through our links.
The Rankings
L.L.Bean Mountain Pile Fleece Vest
THE SHERPA VEST
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT: You may have a fleece vest or two hanging in your closet, but this one is next level. It's made with extra plush sherpa fleece that's not only insanely warm, but also just plain cute. It's the perfect pick for doing all the fall things—think pumpkin patch dates and sitting fireside with friends.
USER REVIEW: "There's never a day where I don't wear this vest, and I recently bought a second one in a different color. It's a great length and a great shape, and it keeps me warm and cozy indoors and out!"
Uniqlo Ultra Light Down Vest
THE LIGHTWEIGHT VEST
WHY IT MADE THE LIST: When Uniqlo says "Ultra Light," they mean it. Reviewers rave that this vest is incredibly warm but virtually undetectable underneath other jackets and coats, and it's compact enough to fold into the teeny storage case that comes with it. Best of all? It's under $50.
STYLE WITH: If you simply can't resist a beautiful faux fur coat or cute sherpa jacket but desperately need more warmth, layer this vest underneath. You can thank us later.
Patagonia Nano Puff Insulated Vest
THE WEATHER-READY VEST
WHY IT MADE THE LIST: Don't let its lightweight look fool you—the Nano Puff can handle it all. Warm, windproof, and water-repellent, it'll hold up in even the coldest and most blustery conditions—all while remaining lightweight enough to pack up in a carrying case.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: Just to sweeten the deal, this vest is made entirely of recycled materials.
Columbia Benton Springs Fleece Vest
THE MINIMALIST VEST
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT: Aside from its sleek, fuss-free silhouette, reviewers love this vest for its ultra-soft fleece. It's the kind of piece you'll want to throw on whether you're heading out for errands or snuggling up on the couch. Bonus: it has extra-deep pockets to keep your hands warm.
USER REVIEW: "I love, love, love this vest. It’s my third one. I bought two a few years ago and found them so warm and comfortable, and they still look good even after several years of use. I had to order a gray one too!"
The North Face Thermoball Eco Vest
THE ULTRA-WARM VEST
WHAT IT DOES: Made with The North Face's Thermoball insulation, this vest will provide superior warmth even when it's wet. From snowy hikes to rainy days in the city, you can count on this hardworking layer to keep you toasty.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: Made from 100% post-consumer recycled content, this vest is The North Face's most sustainable product.
Lululemon Fleece Insulated Vest
THE ACTIVEWEAR VEST
WHERE TO WEAR: In true Lulu fashion, this vest was made for movement. With PrimaLoft insulation and four-way stretch material that's wind-resistant and water-repellent, it's an excellent choice for outdoor runs and errands around town.
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT: Aside from the cute silhouette and super-warm neck, this beauty also comes with a genius hidden pocket for your phone.
Fuinloth Quilted Vest
THE FITTED VEST
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT: Boasting over 13,000 reviews, this best-selling Amazon vest has a band on the back for a snugger fit that feels a little more feminine than the rest. Bonus points for the 16 color options (including a cheery red that's covered in Christmas trees).
USER REVIEW: "I love everything about this vest—style, color, size, warmth, weight. I own several vests in different colors, and this one has it all. It's casual yet stylish and perfectly fitted. Size up if you're going to wear a fleece underneath, but stick with your true size if you'll only wear it on top of one layer."
Amazon Essentials Lightweight Water-Resistant Packable Puffer Vest
THE AFFORDABLE VEST
WHO IT'S FOR: If you're not looking to splurge, turn to this minimal but dependable vest. It comes in 12 colors and prints, can be packed into an included carrying case, and—perhaps the best feature of all—it's machine-washable.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: If you prefer not to hide your figure, this pick will fit the bill. It's made with smart contoured seams that flatter the waist and keep it from feeling too boxy.
The North Face Aconcagua Down Vest
THE TIMELESS VEST
WHY IT MADE THE LIST: The vest version of The North Face's OG puffer coat, you simply can't go wrong with this tried-and-true style. Made with high-quality, durable materials (read: 550-fill-power down) and a simple but chic design, it's the kind of winter staple you'll keep for years.
STYLE WITH: This is the perfect example of a vest that works just as well over a cashmere crew and jeans as it does over a lounge-worthy sweatshirt and leggings.
J.Crew Quilted Vest With Primaloft
THE STYLISH VEST
WHY IT MADE THE LIST: From the unique quilting to the huge pockets and gorgeous color options (think nutmeg, ivory, and gold), this J.Crew vest is equal parts practical and beautiful. Whether layered over a sweater or under a heavy coat, you'll wear this one for many seasons to come.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: This vest is made from recycled poly and filled with PrimaLoft, a down-alternative that both keeps you warm and keeps plastic bottles out of oceans and landfills.
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