Feathered Friends Daybreak Vest

Comfort Range

One tester wore this 900-fill down vest in Alaska for 60-plus days of hiking and skiing. “In warmer months, it worked great for rest breaks (in the 40s), and on cool nights in camp. In the depth of winter, it kept my core warm (over a baselayer and under a shell) during hard efforts in subzero conditions.” The nylon shell has a long-lasting Schoeller Nanosphere treatment, which repelled snow, light wind and rain, and coffee.

Fit

The fitted, just-to-the-hip cut covers the core and not an inch more, which keeps weight and packed size down but may be too spare for people with long torsos or love handles.

Gripes

The tiny zipper pulls (loops of thin cordage) are fumbly, especially with gloves on.

Verdict

Maximum warmth, minimum weight. “This is an ultralight inferno,” says one tester. It packs to the size of a baseball (smaller than the Strata).

Details

$169; 6 oz.; featheredfriends.com