www.mammut.ch | £130
Mammut’s Broad Peak Vest is a thicker gilet suitable for wearing as an outer layer or as a mid-layer, although if you’re wearing it as a mid-layer you’ll need to take into account that it’s quite bulky when choosing what you’re going to wear over it. But I really like the fit, style and warmth you get from this down gilet.
The Broad Peak Vest has a fill power of 750 and uses quality white goose down which, although chunky, weighs just 336g in a men’s XL and compresses to a small package that won’t take up much room in a rucksack. It has horizontal baffles that keep the down in separate chambers, regulating the overall thermal properties.
The outer shell is made from Pertex Microlight which is highly water and wind resistant, protecting the fill from adverse weather until you can cover up or get out of it, while remaining breathable. It’s also durable so will withstand a high level of abuse if you are scrambling or climbing over rugged terrain, or navigating through dense undergrowth.
Unusually in a gilet and very useful is that the main YKK zip is two-way. It has a weather-resistant baffle behind it to prevent cold spots and there’s a shroud at the collar to stop it from digging into your neck. The collar is reasonably high and has three narrower baffles with down fill. There are two soft patches on the chin, either side of the zip, for that extra bit of comfort.
The fit is neither too snug nor too baggy – it fits nicely over a baselayer but would accommodate a reasonably thick fleece too. It’s not restrictive and offers a good range of movement. The cut is lower at the back to keep you protected when stretching up. There’s a draw cord in the hem which can be adjusted with one gloved hand to fine tune the fit and the armholes have elasticated but aren’t too tight. There are two large, zip-up outer pockets; the left one doubles as the vest’s storage pouch.
Mammut Broad Peak Vest Verdict
A nicely fitting body warmer, great for just about anywhere.