Best layering VEST option - SG Cirque Lite, Kuiu Kenai, or Sitka Kelvin Aerolite?

[bwalk]

Hello, I am looking at adding a vest to my layering system and looking for some input on these 3 options. Mostly wondering on the packablity and warmth of each. I have an aerolite jacket and love this piece so I am leaning towards the aerolite vest unless another option is warmer and still packs similar. Thanks!

 

[go4thegusto]

Kenai fan here. Soft and quiet, stands up to compression. Light and dries fast

 

[Kostrize]

Sitka MDWi or Ambient for me. Light wind blocking and good insulation for active use

The full sleeved versions are too warm for me over 30F but the vest works great. For more insulation or static use, go for a full down puffy vest IMO

 

[bwalk]

Sitka MDWi or Ambient for me. Light wind blocking and good insulation for active use

The full sleeved versions are too warm for me over 30F but the vest works great. For more insulation or static use, go for a full down puffy vest IMO

Thank you for the advise! Any recommendations for a good puffy vest?

 

[Kostrize]

Cheap- Eddie Bauer or Costco

High end- Rab Electron or Microlight

 

[inkedspot]

The SG Cirque Lite has been great. Just enough to keep core insulated but thin and doesn’t really affect movement and has layered well with everything so far.

 

[Highvoltage1]

I just grabbed a kings transition with primaloft. First year with a vest, couldn’t be happier. Maybe worth a look for you. I think I found a sale for $60 or so. Best wishes Happy Thanksgiving

 

[Swamppirate]

150 merino base, Ambient Hoodie, Kelvin Aerolite vest and if it is really cold Kelvin Lite Down jacket or Traverse Hoodie.

 

[The Ri Guy]

Anyone tried the Duckworth Woolcloud vest?

 

[bwalk]

Thanks for all the replies, happy Thanksgiving everyone!

 

[Aviator]

Kenai

 

[nagibson1]

I just grabbed a kings transition with primaloft. First year with a vest, couldn’t be happier. Maybe worth a look for you. I think I found a sale for $60 or so. Best wishes Happy Thanksgiving

I have the Kings transition vest and had the first generation transition jacket (lost it). I LOVED the jacket (and I don't love the new version as much- I preferred the delicate, very light version), and I almost never took the vest off on my Idaho hunt this year. IF you can get it for a reasonable price, it's a great piece.

 

[whaack]

Kenai and Ambient are both awesome pieces. Kuiu is better if you want to use it as an outer layer vest, Sitka is better if you want to layer bc it’s thinner.

 

[Quebec-overlander]

Hi, from my point of view, the aerolite vest seems like a great choice, especially since you already like the jacket. I'm not super experienced with all the options mentioned, but based on what I've seen, the Aerolite should offer good packability and warmth, hope that helps a bit !