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Why we love this deal
Enjoying the outdoors is half the fun of fall. While summer is prime for lots of excursions, the heat can get to a point where it’s dangerous or simply not fun to be out under the hot sun. Come autumn, however, and the weather has cooled quite nicely, still warm enough to spend time outside without breaking out in a sweat. And, if we do say so ourselves, the change in the surrounding environment, with lots of colorful leaves and a crisp breeze blowing through the air, makes us eager to bike, hike, or simply walk far more than we have in the previous months. With that in mind, your basic shirt and shorts won’t serve you well for long, and that’s why adding key layering pieces like the Smartwool Smartloft Insulated Vest is a must for the outdoor adventurer taking advantage of all that September and October has to offer.
A great outer layer to throw on when the weather doesn’t quite require a heavy jacket, the Smartwool Smartloft Insulated Vest keeps you warm without weighing you down when the weather is cool but not cold. And now, just in time for fall, it’s on sale for 46% off at REI. Instead of paying $185 for the sleek vest, you can save $85 and only pay $100 on this top-rated REI Outlet apparel.
Smartwool Smartloft Insulated Vest, $100 (was $185) at REI
Why do shoppers love it?
Vests are perfect those times of the year where the weather is a bit in between hot and cold. Come fall, the day can go through a rollercoaster of conditions, starting with a chilly morning followed by a pretty hot afternoon, and then dropping down for a chilly evening. During these seasonal transitions, you need clothing that keeps you warm but doesn’t leave you overly hot, and vests keep your core warm while letting your arms move more freely while enjoying a bit of airflow.
This vest uses a combination of different fabrics to keep you comfortable, cozy, and cool all at the same time. Made of 100% nylon, the exterior shell of the vest is both water repellent and wind-resistant to protect you from extreme weather conditions, while the interior is made with a combination of polyester, elastane, and merino wool. Much of the insulation comes from that cozy wool-blend fleece, while the side panels are stretchy and move with your body thanks to the elastane. Those fabrics, combined with polyester, come together to create a very durable vest that has natural odor resistance, temperature regulation, and is resistant to wear and tear. It’s also fast-drying, a bonus when you get caught in the rain.
What’s great about this vest is that even with so many different fabrics it isn’t overly bulky. It’s designed to flatter your figure, hugging your body without being overly tight and with more than enough room for an additional layer or two underneath. Other than its silhouette-flattering design, it has an asymmetrical center-front zipper, two zippered hand pockets, and a zippered chest pocket, as well as a hood.
Related: Walmart’s bestselling water-resistant hooded windbreaker is on sale for just $17
Available in three colors, this vest doesn’t have any specific care instructions but with delicate fabrics like merino wool it’s best to hand wash with cool water and a mild wool-safe detergent, turning the vest inside out and submerging it completely in the soapy water. To dry, press out excess water and then lay flat to air dry.
Details to know
- Material: Recycled nylon, polyester, merino wool, and elastane.
- Colors: Three.
- Sizes: XS through XL.
This “perfect for mid-cool to warm days” vest is not only very attractive with its tapered waist and slim fit, but it’s incredibly warm. Shoppers use it while running, walking, or hiking, and love to layer it over other clothing during outdoor excursions when the weather can change quickly. “Finally found a vest that keeps my core warm without overheating or having cold spots,” one shopper said. “Your new favorite top layers,” another shopper said. “Lightweight, easy to pack, warm, and has pockets with zippers so you can carry your phone. I take it everywhere.”
Shop more deals
- Patagonia Nano-Air Light Insulated Vest, $150 (was $199) at REI
- Smartwool Classic Thermal Quarter-Zip, $90 (was $130) at REI
- REI Co-op 650 Down Vest, $50 (was $100) at REI
Even shoppers who aren’t super into outdoor activities can find use with the Smartwool Smartloft Insulated Vest. Stylish with a great fit and lots of warmth, it’s great as basic outerwear when there’s a bit of chill in the air but not even for a heavy-duty coat.
