What is the Switch Vest?
It's a windproof, hybrid gilet designed to provide extra warmth and protection on cold mountain days, whether hiking, climbing, or mountaineering. The Switch Vest also works well as a light outer layer for shoulder seasons, offering ample protection without the added weight and bulk of a down jacket.
What is it made of?
Face fabric: The outer face material is made with lightweight, 20D RS Nylon that is completely windproof. It features an FC-free DWR (durable water repellent) to provide light water resistance and a light mechanical stretch to enhance freedom of movement when climbing or using equipment such as axes and poles.
Insulation: This vest doesn't come with the usual down or synthetic insulation. Instead, it's lined with a super warm yet breathable Octayarn Warp-Knit fleece that offers premium comfort for long, hard mountain days. This fleece is made from a combination of recycled and non-recycled polyester to reduce its environmental impact. It also features bluesign® approved, Pontetorto® Tecnostretch 187 fleece on the back and sides. These panels help to reduce weight and bulk without compromising the warmth and performance of the gilet. Being permeable, it also enhances moisture transfer, wicking away any sweat or condensation that builds up when working hard without allowing heat to escape, thanks to that windproof outer fabric.
What are its features?
The Switch is designed with an 'Active Fit', which is a little trimmer than your usual gilet. This keeps weight and bulk to a minimum to allow you to fit layers like a waterproof shell jacket over the top.
At the front, a YKK® zip in the centre gives you easy access and allows you to ventilate further by opening the fastening.
An elastane-bound hem and arm holes cinch in the fabric to keep out drafts and retain warmth. Flatlocked seams also provide next-to-skin comfort, should you be wearing a t-shirt underneath, and help prevent rubbing and chafing if you wear the gilet for extended periods.
There are two zipped hand pockets and two Napoleon chest pockets for storage, ideal for small essentials like gloves, trail snacks, a mobile phone or GPS device. Last but not least, everything packs down into the hand pocket, making it easy to stuff into a backpack or kit bag when you're not wearing it. Two twin carabiner loops inside the pocket also make it easy to attach to a pack or even belt loops for quick, on-the-go access if you're in the middle of an ascent.
Features:
- Lightweight 20D RS Nylon outer fabric is wind resistant, with mechanical stretch and FC-free DWR
- Octayarn Warp-knit lining for exceptional insulation, breathability and comfort
- bluesign® approved Pontetorto® Tecnostretch 187 fleece [back and side panels]
- Active fit
- Flatlocked seams for next-to-skin comfort
- YKK® centre front zip
- Two zipped hand warmer pockets and two Napoleon chest pockets
- Elastane bound hem and armholes
- Packs into hand pocket with twin karabiner carry loops