Become a Member

Get access to more than 30 brands, premium video, exclusive content, events, mapping, and more.

Already have an account? Sign In

Become a Member

Get access to more than 30 brands, premium video, exclusive content, events, mapping, and more.

Already have an account? Sign In

Brands

Apparel

REI Windbrake Vest

Here lies a fleece fabric that's the most wind-resistance out of 10 vests we've tested.

Brand: REI Gear Reviews

Model: REI Windbrake Vest


Comfort Range

Behind the Windbrake’s no-frills appearance lies a fleece fabric that’s the most wind-resistant and the toughest among 10 vests we tested. “When I was trail running across 10,000-foot mountain passes in Arizona’s San Francisco Peaks, the Windbrake thwarted 40-mph gusts,” says one tester.

Fit

The secret is a wind-stopping, proprietary laminate that’s sandwiched between outer and inner fleece layers.

Gripes

While the Windbrake excels as a cool-weather outer layer, the membrane limits breathability, so testers steamed up while hiking hard.

Verdict

Despite testers’ best attempts to rough it up, the vest showed little signs of wear after five months of heavy use.

Details

$70; 16 oz.; rei.com

When you buy something using the retail links in our stories, we may earn a small commission. We do not accept money for editorial gear reviews. Read more about our policy.