Picking up a sherpa vest is an excellent way to update your wardrobe with a chic new piece that can keep you cozy as temperatures drop. The best ones are insulating, with a contemporary but relaxed style. It's also helpful if they have pockets and a secure front closure, such as a zipper with a collar that keeps your neck warm.
The Valphsio Quilted Sherpa Vest is a top choice because it's reversible for added versatility, comes in nine colors and has a casual but polished aesthetic.
Sherpa fabric can be made from natural or synthetic materials, such as cotton or polyester. It typically has one flat and one high-pile side, giving it a soft look and feel. The fluffy side is often placed on the outer shell or used as a lining for the vest. However, some manufacturers add the high-pile material to both sides of their vests.
Sherpa vests can be layered over shirts, sweaters and dresses or under jackets for insulation. While they never have sleeves, they can have a front closure, such as a zipper or buttons, or no closure.
Sherpa vests come in 10 primary styles. While you might already know what you want, it's helpful to learn what designs are available.
Regardless of your usual size, it's essential to record and compare your measurements to the manufacturer’s sizing chart to ensure that you find the perfect sherpa vest.
There are two quick, easy steps to find your measurements. Don't pull the measuring tape too tight if you plan to layer your vest over shirts and sweaters.
Pockets are always helpful, especially when you're toting around essentials such as your wallet, keys and phone. While hip pockets are relatively easy to find on a quality vest, some manufacturers also give you bonus pockets on the inside and chest for added storage.
A high-quality sherpa vest should be insulating to keep you warm. Without a secure closure such as snaps, buttons or a zipper, it's hard to keep the cool air out. Of the three options, the most secure is a zipper, which prevents you from losing valuable body heat.
Since it's easy for cold air to creep in from the vest's neckline, it's helpful to find one with a high collar, so you stay warm. Even if you don't wish to zip it up to the top, it's still nice to have the added material protect that sensitive part of your body. Some vests even have sherpa lining in the collar, elevating their cozy look and feel.
While some designer vests are $100 or more, you can find a high-quality vest for around $30-$80.
A. To prevent the sherpa material from pilling and matting, wash it in cold water on delicate with a gentle detergent and lay it flat to dry. Avoid bleach or fabric softeners.
A. Begin by mixing 1 teaspoon of hair conditioner with 8 ounces of warm water in a small spray bottle. Next, spray one small section at a time and gently brush the material with a boar-bristle hair brush. When you're done, wash it as usual.
What you need to know: This reversible polyester vest is versatile, with pockets at the front on one side and the hips on the other.
What you’ll love: With sherpa on one side and a quilted weave on the other, it has a full front zipper and a high sherpa-lined collar to keep you warm. It's machine-washable for easy care and comes in nine colors, in sizes S-XXL.
What you should consider: Some reviewers said it runs small and suggested sizing up by one size.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
LookbookStore Casual Sherpa Vest
What you need to know: This vest has sherpa material on the outside and sits at your hips for a warm, flattering fit.
What you’ll love: This mostly polyester vest is blended with 5% spandex for added stretch and durability. It has a high sherpa-lined collar with a front zipper closure for warmth and hip pockets to secure your valuables. You can select from seven colors in sizes S-XXL.
What you should consider: Some people reported that this runs small and suggested sizing up by one or two sizes.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Carhartt Relaxed-Fit Fleece Vest
What you need to know: This versatile hip-length vest has a relaxed fit and comes in three colors.
What you’ll love: This zip-up vest has a drawcord in the bottom hem to keep cold air out and is made with a soft polyester high-pile fleece outer shell. It also has roomy front pockets with zipper closures and a mock collar for added coverage.
What you should consider: Some buyers said this vest felt a size too big and suggested sizing down.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Ella Scott writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
