Mountain Equipment Oreus Insulated Vest

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UOG TOP PICK –Warm, compressible, and adaptable, the Mountain Equipment Oreus Vest is an excellent addition for those needing a reliable insulating layer that handles both alpine challenges and changing conditions with ease.

Mountain Equipment says: 

Stay warm during alpine pursuits with the Aetherm™ insulated vest, designed to be windproof, lightweight, and packable.

The Oreus vest combines the best of both worlds: the comfort and warmth of down and the durability and compressibility of synthetic insulation, thanks to our exclusive Aetherm™ synthetic insulation. A great booster layer or as a standalone mid layer, pack light without sacrificing warmth or comfort – the Oreus is a game-changer.

Our Verdict

The Mountain Equipment Oreus Insulated Vest is a versatile layer that delivers warmth, packability, and durability thanks to the innovative Aetherm insulation. This vest offers an impressive warmth-to-weight ratio, making it ideal for lightweight insulation without the bulk. At just 228g for a medium, it is easily packable and can be stowed in its internal pocket, complete with karabiner loops for attaching to a harness or pack.

Aetherm insulation, featuring Mountain Equipment’s patent-pending 3D structure, sets the Oreus apart by weaving multiple strands of recycled polyester fibres within a heat-reflective layer. This unique design maximises loft and warmth retention by trapping air while reducing bulk and enhancing compressibility. It combines the loft and warmth of down with the durability and moisture resistance of synthetic insulation, ensuring reliable performance even in damp conditions.

The recycled 10D Plasma fabric with an FC-free DWR finish adds windproofing and moisture resistance without compromising breathability, a feature well-suited to high-output activities. Practical design details like dual tether hem drawcords, two hand-warmer pockets, and a pleated internal drop pocket provide functional storage and flexibility in layering, while the two-way front zip and rear insulated baffle help manage warmth and ventilation.

– Reviewed by Ultralight Outdoor Gear

Features

• 100% recycled PLASMA 10D outer fabric with FC free DWR; incredibly lightweight and breathable
• Groundbreaking Aetherm™ insulation offers incredible warmth-to-weight ratio, loft and packability*
• 2-way YKK® moulded centre front zip with rear insulated baffle
• 2 zipped hand warmer pockets
• Pleated internal drop pocket
• Dual tether hem drawcords
• Packs into internal pocket with twin karabiner carry loops

Specifications

• Small weighs: 222g
• Medium weighs: 228g
• Large weighs: 242g
• XLarge weighs: 262g

Material & Construction

• Outer: Ultra-Lightweight Woven Ripstop with Double Cire Treatment
• Lining: Ultra-Lightweight Woven Ripstop with Double Cire Treatment
• Insulation: Aetherm Insulation

Help & advice:

• Recycled Content in Outdoor Gear