Advnture Verdict
A stylish, warm, reliable performer on the trails, which is easy to pack away when not in use.
Pros
- +
Breathable
- +
Internal zipped pocket
- +
Water-resistant outer
- +
Dropped hem at back
- +
Very packable
Cons
- -
No drawcord hem
- -
No women’s version
- -
No stuff sack
You can trust Advnture Our expert reviewers spend days testing and comparing gear so you know how it will perform out in the real world. Find out more about how we test and compare products.
Berghaus Vaskye Vest: first impressions
The tall collar and soft chin guard add to the warmth and comfort of the Berghaus Vaskye Vest, while elasticated arm holes trap heat inside the gilet.
The outer Pertex Quantum fabric is treated with a PFC-free Durable Water-Repellent finish to fend off the rain, while the Hydroloft Polyball insulation keeps you as snug as the proverbial bug in a rug.
Neat features include a dropped hem (it’s longer at the back than front so the small of your back doesn’t get exposed when you bend), and two concealed zipped hand pockets. The official description mentions a concealed internal zipped pocket designed to swallow a phone, but it’s so well concealed I have failed to find it in my test gilet when we out the Berghaus Vaskye Vest through its paces for our best gilets buying guide.
• RRP: £100 (UK)
• Insulation: Hydroloft Polyball (synthetic fill)
• Gender availability: Men’s only
• Sizes: XS / S / M / L / XL / XXL / XXXL
• Colors: Grey / Black / Dark Red & Dark Blue
Berghaus Vaskye Vest: on the trails
The Vaskye may look as if it’s down-filled, but it offers more immediate warmth, thanks to its wind-beating outer (for more on this subject see: Down vs synthetic insulation: which is best for keeping warm?). It also traps heat superbly through its close-fitting elasticated arm openings, while the soft fabric chin guard and fabric-lined pockets enhance the feeling of comfort and warmth.
When not in use, this Berghaus gilet packs down small for easy stowage in your hiking backpack, although it doesn’t stuff into its own pocket and nor does it come with a stuff sack.
One final point – this is one of the very few gilets that not only come in different colors, but also two-color combinations (light and dark grey, and navy and red) which helps it to fit in with everyday wear, rather than looking like a mountaineer on the high street or in the pub.
