Versatility can go far in style. For men, there are not many articles of clothing more versatile and flexible in terms of how and where it can be worn than the men’s vest.

With so many different vest styles – and so many ways to feature a vest in your outfit – it can be a little difficult to know how to wear a men’s vest, how to look good wearing one, what styles and materials work best for specific needs and how all the different types of vests should fit.

With all that in mind, we have put together a list of information and pointers for how to find the best men’s vests and how to wear them this time of year. We should note that this blog post focuses mostly on outerwear vests more than sweater vests.

Vests are great for winter

Winter weather can throw many men curveballs when it comes to trying to plan their seasonal wardrobes. Temperatures outside could be well below freezing one day and then make you wonder whether spring is almost here the next day.

That’s why vests are so functional this time of year. Many types of men’s vests are easy to throw layers under or over. Just make sure you stick to thinner materials underneath the vest. You will want a vest that is not too thick itself if you want to be able to throw on a coat without feeling too bulky.

But the real value in vests comes from their ability to protect your core from the cold of winter. By keeping your core warm, you can actually keep the other parts of your body, including your arms, which vests do not cover, warm, too. This is because when your core body temperature decreases, your body will attempt to keep your organs warm by reducing blood flow to arms, legs and your head and redirecting that blood flow more toward your core.

You can easily take care of your arms when wearing a vest by pairing it with a nice, well-insulated long-sleeve shirt. You might be surprised at how well the vest keeps the rest of your body warm.

Invest in warmer fabrics and materials

Before you go shopping for a vest or two to add to your wardrobe, make sure you do your research on which fabrics and materials will keep you warm enough (but not too warm). If there is one area on which not to skimp when looking for quality men’s clothing, it’s material. This goes for any clothing type, including vests.

Not only will the right type of fabric keep you warm but not overheating, it also will make care and cleaning much easier.

What fabrics are best for winter? Wool and wool blends are the best, but there are some polyester blends that can be up to the challenge of protecting you from colder elements.

One of the primary benefits of polyester sweaters is that they are typically lighter and you may find it easier to throw on a heavier jacket over them. That’s not as easy with a larger vest.

Check the lining and outer shell materials

While we are on the topic of fabrics and materials, the two parts of a vest that matter most are the inner lining and the outer shell.

With linings, some vests focus on being lightweight, while others pack in the insulation that will keep you as warm as possible. It should be noted that vests with light-weight linings may be more comfortable if you plan on being involved in outdoor activities with a lot of movement.

You also need to be mindful of both your activity level and the elements when looking at the outer shell of the vest. A vest with a fleece outer shell will be more breathable and light, but it won’t repel water if it’s raining, sleeting or snowing. If winter precipitation is a worry, then you will want something that is waterproof or at least more effective, such as a polyester softshell or puffer vest.

Vests are best for casual settings

When it comes to winter vests, you are better off saving them for settings in which casual attire is more appropriate.

Men’s vests suitable for protecting you from the elements often take on a sportier look and are not necessarily the best idea when you are trying to strike a formal look.

For those instances, consider a more formal jacket or a dress coat.

When you should wear a vest

You may have heard the term “sweater weather,” but there’s an appropriate range of weather conditions for vests, too.

“Vest weather” might be considered cold weather, but not bitterly cold. If you are going to be active, then you can definitely find a vest a comfortable option if the mercury level dips a bit lower on the thermometer. Vests are great for many outdoor activities in winter, including hiking, running or playing out in the yard with the family – as long as there isn’t snow on the ground – thanks to the fact that your arms are able to move very freely and easily.

If the temperature gets very cold, then you might consider wearing a thinner vest underneath a jacket. This way, you can ditch the jacket as soon as you’re able but still remain nice and cozy with the vest.

Great for the in-between

Unlike many other types of coats and jackets, vests are comfortably worn during cold weather and in those weeks in fall leading up to winter and again as winter turns to spring. Wardrobes that include a vest are more easily layered up or down, depending on the weather, than many other style options.

During these times throughout the year, though, it may be best to go with a thinner, more lightweight style of vest.

Shop for outerwear vests

As always, Hansen’s Clothing carries only the best in men’s clothing, including vests from brands such as Barbour, Pendleton and Peter Millar. Add an extra layer of versatility to your wardrobe by shopping our selection of outerwear men’s vests today.