Backpacker Magazine – September 2001

Jacket vs. Vests

Going sleeveless might save you weight, but will a vest keep you as warm as a jacket?

by: Mike Lanza

Tags:
• Gear
|
• Jackets
|
• Rain gear
|
• Skills
|
• Technique
|

---

Going sleeveless might save you weight, but will a vest keep you warm? If I pack a windshirt, can I leave my long johns home? To answer such questions, consider the strengths of the jackets and vests we tested.

Jacket
• Provides total upper-body coverage for maximum warmth and wind protection
• Doubles as rainwear in light rain and snow
• Can be worn alone or with a T-shirt (replaces long-sleeve base layer)
• Is useful in any season
• Lined windshirts are lighter and more packable than windproof fleece vests
  Best for: Three-season backpacking above treeline and in cool, windy locations; winter hiking as part of a system. A windshirts works well as a base, middle, or outer layer

Vest
• Is lighter, more packable, and less expensive than a jacket (given comparable construction and materials)
• Insulates body's core only-nothing more
• Is easier to layer under or over
• Allows greater freedom of movement
• Is less likely to cause overheating
  Best for: High-exertion hiking in moderate winds or as part of a multipiece wind system in highly variable conditions

Subscribe to Backpacker magazine
Sign up for our free weekly e-newsletter