Best mens gilets 2023: Down, synthetic and fleece designs for core warmth

Nov 23, 2023

Let us preface this by acknowledging that this is by no means a cheap gilet. It’s very much at the premium end of the pricing spectrum. Unfortunately, that’s par for the course when dealing with a brand that builds outerwear capable of standing up to the harshest conditions on earth. Sure, you’re just as likely to spot Canada Goose’s round logo patch in European city centres as you are at Antarctic research outposts these days, but the fact remains that this is tough-as-nails gear designed with cold-weather performance front and centre.

The freestyle vest is the Canadian brand’s best-selling sleeveless jacket and has been a staple in the range for many years. It’s made from the same highly durable face fabric you’ll find in many of the label’s flagship parkas, and everything from the zippers to the press studs feels equally robust and rock solid.

One of our favourite features is the unusual pocket layout. The gilet has two three-way patch pockets to the front, complete with fleece lining to keep hands warm. There’s also a zip stash pocket just inside the main zip and a mesh compartment on the other side that’s perfect for keys, a wallet, or even a spare goggle lens if you’re skiing. The inside of the neck is fleece-lined too, which makes it nice and comfortable against the skin when worn without a hooded or collared garment underneath, and the low-cut back is great for keeping the cold out.

One thing to bear in mind is sizing. We’d say this gilet runs very slim. If you’re usually in between sizes or are in any way broad in the torso, size up for the best possible fit. Oh, and if you’re (understandably) worried about fur, don’t be, as the brand has now ceased the use of real fur in all of its products.