Warm through the core with the arms left free, the Smartwool Men's Second Cut Fleece Vest is a cozy brushed layer with an unusual backstory. It works solo on cool mornings or slips under a shell when the wind kicks up. Soft from the first wear, it has that broken-in feel right away.

Why we like it:

Here is the fun part, Second Cut fleece is knit partly from reclaimed merino scraps left over from Smartwool's own sock production, so a garment that would otherwise be waste ends up back on your body.

Features and Functions:

The main body is a fleece blend of 50 percent recycled polyester, 25 percent reclaimed and reprocessed wool, and 25 percent merino wool, giving you the moisture management and odor resistance of merino with the durability of recycled synthetics. Two drop-in hand pockets and a secure zippered chest pocket cover storage, and a locker loop at the interior back neck makes it easy to hang up at the end of the day. Smartwool rates the fabric warmth at 1.15 or greater on the CLO scale.

Fit and Sizing:

The regular fit leaves room for a base layer or light midlayer underneath without feeling tight. Go with your standard size.

Bottom Line:

This vest is best as a mobile, low-bulk warmth layer for shoulder-season skiing, hiking, or knocking around town. It suits anyone drawn to gear with a genuine sustainability angle.