Time to In-Vest: 10 Cool Vests for Winter

For all of the 'Lo heads out there, this is the standard bearer Ralph Lauren Cleveland Fleece Vest ($130). The Polo forces and inspiration were combined to create this amazing piece of outerwear. Cut from ultra plush cotton fleece, it features button flap pockets, a concealed zipper and sturdy buttons for extra closure. This vest is designed to be both fashionable and practical. You’re not feeling the black colorway? Then check out the red and blue versions.

Penfield is a well-respected American company known for providing strong insulated outerwear for over 40 years. If you looking for an ideal transitional piece, then Penfield’s Rockwool Vest ($280) is the perfect choice. The garment is constructed with down filling with contrasting nylon and cotton lining. The leather patches on top adds to the durability while the shearling collar will provide warmth around your neck. Wear it over your favorite flannel shirt to stay warm or layer it with a sweater during the colder months.

The Carhartt Work in Progress (Carhartt WIP) Douglas Vest ($235) looks like a traditional sleeveless coat but this is one special. The down-filled vest is designed with Cordura material that protects the coat from tears, abrasions and scuffs. It’s also water repellent — not waterproof — so it can handle snowy weather. Along with two front pockets to keep your hands warm it also has an insulated inside pocket as well. This vest is perfect for your next ski trip.

Japanese clothing brand Creep mixes their technical appeal with a few key touches of fashion-savvy flair with their Canadian Rocky Down Vest ($280). Insulated with goose-filled down, the coat comes with zipper-and-button closer, 2 hand-warmer pockets under patch pockets and a shearling collar. The olive-and-white colorway makes this a beautiful vest for the fashionisto in you.

The Levi’s brand is synonymous with jeans but they also make some great outdoor gear as well. The Diablo Vest ($128) is a solid coat that should keep you toasty on those cool autumn nights. Inspired by '70s ski vests, the Diablo Vest boasts two button pockets, a snap-front concealed zip-closure and corduroy patches on the top. The vest is available in a blue and red colorway.

The fall weather can be unpredictable as times — one minute its brisk and then suddenly its downright cold. Stussy’s lightweight Puffer Rib Vest ($127) is the perfect vest for layering when you don’t need a heavy coat. The vest is stuffed with polyester, which actually traps body heat better, and allows more freedom of movement with your arms. The three-striped collar gives the vest its varsity look and the Double S logo compliments the coat. Available in black/purple (pictured) and blue/red colorways.

Much like their boots, Timberland’s Earthkeepers Howker Down Vest ($128) will keep you warm and protect you from the elements. The vest is made with water resistant recycled polyester and packed with 100 percent grey duck down fill. The collar is fleece-lined for comfort and there are two zippered pockets on the side for your hands. Sold in a variety of colors -- including red, navy and black -- this coat needs to be a part of your fall/winter wardrobe.

Two heritage brands Canada Goose and Levi’s have joined forces to create a limited-edition denim-and-parka down vest. The Freestyle Reversible Vest ($375) was inspired by the gold rushes of the late 19th century, which explains the red and gold colorways of the parka side of the vest. When you turn it inside out, it becomes a denim vest with leather trimmings. Only 300 pieces were made but if you look on eBay you might be able to cop this gorgeous piece of outerwear.

If you are looking for an affordable down vest, then L.L. Bean’s Ascent Packaway Vest ($89) should fit your budget. Although it's a lightweight vest it’s insulated to block out water and wind. It's perfect for pairing with a sweater or a long-sleeve shirt with a sportscoat. It also has three zippered pockets, quilted thermal lining and a drawcord hem to help seal in body heat. This coat is fashionable as well as affordable.

The puffy Tib Vest ($550) by luxury down jacket maker Moncler is made specifically for those who live and work in the Arctic. The outer lining of the coat is made of a scientific fabric called Polyamide which can block out the most severe winter elements while keeping the body warm. A turtleneck collar, snap-button and zipper closure and down feather filling completes the vest. Yeah, it’s a pricey garment, but there's a reason why workers in the arctic look to Moncler to keep them warm.