Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown Vest – Stylish Stretchy Vest

Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown Vest – Kate Agathon of Engearment

Not only does it not look like a typical down puffy vest, but it doesn’t perform like one either thanks to its unique design.

Constructed of 700-fill RDS-certified down, the vest is the newest addition to the popular Stretchdown series, Mountain Hardwear’s insulated collection that combines durable warmth and dynamic stretch.

I was initially surprised that a vest boasting considerable warmth was not only light, but had such a streamlined design that it looks more fashionable than technical.

Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown Vest – Kate Agathon of Engearment

Would such a flattering vest provide enough warmth?

I first wore it on a cool fall day where the forecast promised sunshine in the beginning of the hike turning to wind and rain by the end of the hike.

When I began the hike, it was still sunny overhead and I was surprised I didn’t overheat. It felt comfortable and it seemed flexible whenever I had to negotiate around fallen trees in the path, etc.

As predicted, later during the hike, the weather turned. As the clouds gathered, the wind came in and the temperature dropped. I was pleased I didn’t have to grab another layer for the descent.

The Stretchdown vest kept my core warm, and thanks to its somewhat longer length, didn’t expose any skin when I was reaching up or bending down. Also, the elastic binding around the arm holes and along the bottom noticeably kept the cold wind out.

Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown Vest – Kate Agathon of Engearment

Pockets and other features

The features that I appreciated the most about the Stretchdown vest were the pockets.

First of all, I loved the soft lining of the spacious zippered hand pockets, they kept my hands cozy and warm. Sidenote: Whenever I discover hand pockets lined with soft, warm material it’s always a delightful surprise. It’s a small detail, but it’s a game changer for me.

I was also pleasantly surprised to find not one, but two interior pockets. These pockets were spacious and could accommodate my cell phone.

Like other down jackets, the packable Stretchdown could pack into the right hand stow pocket.

The Stretchdown vest is available in three colors (Wild Oyster, Black, and Cocoa Red), whose matte tones are perfect for fall. However, I did find the Cocoa Red to be more of a Plum color.

Overall, I liked the Stretchdown vest for its style, pockets, and performance. I see myself using it  for casual wear, hiking or traveling since it is so light and looks more stylish and less technical than its down puffy vest counterparts. Women who want the protection and warmth of a down jacket but want a different, more stylish look will love this vest.