11 best puffer vests for men to buy in 2022
Light, compact and fashionable, we’ve rounded up the best puffer vests for men that’ll provide an extra layer of warmth during the cooler months.
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No longer considered daggy, puffer vests have become quite the men’s fashion statement. Also known as a gilet, padded vest or bodywarmer, the underrated puffer vest is a functional extra layer that’s perfect for awkward in-between seasons when a lightweight jacket is too thin but a thick winter coat is too warm.
Plus, they are so compact that you can easily roll them up and pop them into any bag, making them the perfect travel companion.
Worn perfectly under a tailored topcoat, over suits, sweaters and flannel shirts or as an added layer on your chilly morning and evening outdoor runs, it’s the most versatile clothing item you’ll ever own.
But not all puffer vests are created equal and finding one that ticks all the boxes can be quite the challenge. So, we’ve done the hard work for you and rounded up the best men’s puffer vests on the market that cater to a range of lifestyles, fits and budgets.
BEST LIGHTWEIGHT PUFFER VESTS FOR MEN
Dickies Men’s Diamond Quilted Nylon Vest, Amazon Australia, from $39.14
With a 4.6 out of five-star average rating and over 1,500k five-star reviews on Amazon alone, you know you can’t go wrong with the Dickie’s Diamond Quilted Nylon Vest. Reviewers love it because it’s incredibly warm but lightweight.
One person wrote: “Bought this vest because I wanted to take off my big winter jacket during my daily long commute for work. It is very thin, but has this insulated material on the inside that keeps your body warm.”
Countless of other five-star reviewers have also commented on the softness of the material and the large pockets. As one person wrote: “Excellent Dickies vest. I wear in daily at my construction job and weekend outings. Warm and comfortable. Will buy another … and another. Big convenient front pockets are lined with soft material that keep hands warm as well as the whole vest. Comfortable soft stretch material around the collar.”
Gazman Lightweight Puffer Vest, Myer, $119
Puffers come in a variety of different thicknesses so if you’re someone who easily overheats or you want a transeasonal jacket, it might be time to invest in the Gazman Lightweight Puffer. Using a thermal filling made from patented technology, it’s - as the name suggests - ultra-lightweight and breathable, all while retaining body heat. It comes in five colourways, ranging from a subtle dark navy to a bright red so whatever you fancy, there’s a Gazman gilet for you.
Edmund Hillary Cirque Primaloft Lightweight Vest, The Iconic, $185
We’d consider all of the vests in this roundup “outerwear” but if you want a mid-layer that no one will notice if you choose to keep it on all day indoors, this is it. Easily hidden under a coat, denim jacket, blazer or heavy snow gear, you can confidently walk around all snuggly and warm while others huddle next to the heaters. It’s crafted with 130gms insulation, features snap buttons and zip-secured hand pockets and is available in a classic black and calming khaki.
BEST HOODED PUFFER VESTS FOR MEN
Superdry Hooded Everest Gilet Eclipse, Myer, $179.95
Throw the Superdry Gilet Eclipse over your hoodies and long-sleeved tops for extra body warmth. It has a slim-fit design to sit closer to the body for a more tailored look and features a cosy hood and fashion-forward leather toggles and zip pullers. But we especially love this vest because the 100 per cent recycled padding is made from up to 20 plastic bottles, so you can look good and feel even better wearing it.
Yd. Coombs Puffer Vest Natural, $149.99 at Myer
Just like the Superdry gilet, this puffer vest from yd. is another great pick if you require a hood to keep your head warm. However, the most noticeable difference is the colour, which is great if you want to venture away from your regular dark-hued winter clothing but still want something that will match everything you own already. Plus, the two front pockets are roomy enough to store all your small valuables while out and about.
BEST FORMAL PUFFER VESTS FOR MEN
Country Road Recycled Polyester Puffer Vest, $199
If anyone’s told you that puffer vests should only be reserved for supermarket runs and lounging on the couch, prove them wrong with this one from Country Road. With a refined design, it doesn’t intend to steal the spotlight but instead, seamlessly complements your entire outfit. Pair it with a shirt and blazer and you’ve got a formal look your boss will approve of or take styling advice from Country Road and layer it over a denim shirt and beanie for an effortless cool-guy style.
BEST HIKING AND ATHLETIC PUFFER VESTS FOR MEN
Patagonia Men’s Down Sweater Vest, The Iconic, $249.95
Not only is Patagonia well known for creating high-quality adventure gear (also suitable for the office), but their products are ethically made, environmentally conscious and they donate a small portion of all profits to a charitable cause. So, if you’re looking for a windproof and waterproof puffer vest that’ll make you feel warm, look great and is sustainably made, the Men’s Down Sweater Vest will be your best bet. Other notable features include the high neck protection, zip-up hand warming pockets and of course, the luxe 800-fill traceable European goose down fill.
The North Face Men’s Aconcagua 2 Vest, Amazon Australia, from $230
Designed specifically for hiking, this 550-fill goose down insulated vest will regulate your temperature with ease. For extra warmth even in wet weather, it’s also fitted with Heatseeker Eco (North Face’s trademark high-performing recycled insulation) in the pockets, underarms and yoke.
BEST BUDGET-FRIENDLY PUFFER VESTS FOR MEN
Flygo Men’s WInter Warm Outdoor Padded Puffer Vest, Amazon Australia, from $48.49
Lined with faux fur, this thick but lightweight vest will keep you snug all winter long. Because of its wide cut, many reviewers have commented on how it’s the perfect layer to wear on top of jumpers and hoodies.
“Great fit at the chest and slightly loose at the torso, so wearing a hoodie underneath makes this vest an absolutely ideal fit. Incredibly insulating and warm,” one person wrote. “I have worn this vest over my hoodies (with a hat and/or gloves on specifically cold days) and the temperature and insulation feels absolutely perfect.”
Also, it’s probably the most inclusive puffer you’ll find with sizes ranging from 6X-Small to 8X-Large (although, those based in Australia will have to pay an extra delivery charge for some of the smaller and larger sizes).
ASOS DESIGN Puffer Vest, ASOS, $84
Stay trendy and toasty when the cold weather hits with this fashionable puffer from ASOS. The contrast design is a little badass and fashionista, if we do say so ourselves, which will definitely take a few years off without looking like you’re trying too hard. With a perfect fit that isn’t too slim or wide, it’ll work with virtually anything in your wardrobe.
Jack & Jones Ace Collar Bodywarmer Vest, Myer, $69.95
For under $70, this gilet is a very small investment for ultimate cosiness. The lightweight fill makes it wearable all year round and easily layered over or under clothing, the stand-up collar will keep your neck warm and the regular fit gives you more ease around the body without looking too bulky. Big wins all around if you ask us.
HOW DO MEN WEAR PUFFER VESTS?
There are countless ways you can dress up or down a puffer vest. For example, it can easily be worn with any activewear but for a casual day-to-day look, you can pair a puffer vest with a classic crew neck sweater, pants and a pair of sleek boots. For a more formal look, wear a slim-fit shirt underneath and if you want to go an extra mile, complement it with a tie, bowtie or blazer. You can also throw a large coat or an oversized denim jacket over your puffer vest for even more warmth.
HOW SHOULD A PUFFER VEST FIT?
A puffer vest should fit a man just like a normal waistcoat does. Ensure the fit is comfortable and snug with enough room to wear over layers. Just be careful not to opt for a size too big as you still want it to be a slim fit that contours your silhouette and can be worn underneath a winter jacket.
On the hunt for more winter gear? Take a look at our selection of the comfiest men’s slippers and the best men’s coats and jackets that’ll elevate your look.
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