Montbell Alpine Light Down Vest

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The Montbell Alpine Light Down Vest delivers excellent performance and is warm, packable, and thoughtfully designed.

Montbell says: 

Combines 800 Fill Power EX Down with a lightweight yet durable, wind-shedding and water repellent face fabric to deliver exceptional warmth in a packable form. This comes with a glossy finish, horizonal baffles and a feature-rich design to maintain comfort and full functionality as an outer layer while in the alpine and on the trail.

(Unfortunately, we are unable to ship MontBell products outside of the UK)

Our Verdict

Weighing just 254 grams (medium size), the vest is filled with 800-fill power down, providing impressive warmth-to-weight efficiency. The sewn-through construction keeps the down evenly distributed, while the 20-denier nylon ripstop fabric with a water-repellent finish offers durability and light moisture resistance. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to cut weight without compromising comfort.

One of my favourite features is the fleece-lined handwarmer pockets positioned behind the down insulation. They are exceptionally cosy, keeping your hands warm even in biting cold. The micro-fleece-lined collar adds to the comfort, while the adjustable hem ensures a snug fit that keeps drafts at bay. Two internal drop-in pockets provide handy storage for gloves or snacks.

The vest, including a stuff sack, packs down small, making it ideal for layering or stowing in your pack. Its balance of weight, warmth, and versatility makes it a dependable addition to your outdoor wardrobe. This vest is a standout option for fast-paced mountain pursuits or trail adventures.

– Reviewed by Ultralight Outdoor Gear

Features

• Sewn Through Construction keeps down insulation in place while lightening the weight
• Downproofing helps keep down from escaping through the face fabric
• Micro-fleece lined collar provides an additional warmth around the neck
• Zip End Guard protects your chin and face
• Water Repellent Zipper helps keep water out
• Pocket Hem Adjuster allows for cinching the hem while helping keep out chill air
• 4 pockets (2 zippered fleece lined pockets, 2 internal drop-in pockets)
• Stuff sack included

Specifications

• Small weighs: 242g
• Medium weighs: 254g
• Large weighs: 271g
• XLarge weighs: 292g
• Fill Weight: 90g (Medium)
• Fill Power: 800 Cuin
• Compressed Size: 12 x 20 cm

Material & Construction

• Material: 20-denier Ballistic® nylon ripstop (water repellent finish)
• Lining: 20-denier Ballistic® nylon taffeta
• Insulation: 800 Fill Power EX Down

Help & advice:

• About Montbell
• What is Fabric Denier?
• Down Quality
• All About Down
• Hydrophobic Down
• Responsible Down Standard