Down or synthetic?

[trtaylor]

Which of these two vests do you gear experts think would be warmer? I'm looking at one of these to be a middle layer, under a softshell, on colder days.

Down (650 fill) vest

Primaloft vest

Thanks!

 

[cbcbd]

The down will be warmer, but if I were to pick one to use as a mid layer I would get the primaloft synthetic. It won't be as bulky as an underlayer and especially since it will be under a shell it might see some moisture from your body. Although I don't think the down would completely absorb enough to make it unusable it is a lot easier to dry out a moist synthetic piece than a down one.

 

[drjeff]

Definately synthetic! Just like cbcbd said, better wicking and less bulk!

 

[Bumpsis]

Another vote for primaloft. The stuff is great. One additional advantage: it stays put.
Those pesky little feathers will find their way out (eventually), regardless of how tight the fabric is. So you primaloft vest will last longer.
I love down but ever since primaloft came about, I switched my preferences.

 

[Moe Ghoul]

Synthetic. Down belongs on a bed.

 

[bigbog]

....

cbcbd =+ 1;
..and the synthetic won't hinder breatheability.

 

[ctenidae]

Synthetic. The down under a softshell would be way too bulky.

 

[Ski Diva]

I have an EMS Primaloft "sweater" -- similar to the vest you're looking at, except with sleeves. It's a great mid layer. Warm, lightweight, easy to move in. Highly recommend.

 

[andyzee]

I'm down with sin.