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Mountain Hardwear Sub Zero Vest

Men's Clothing > Jackets & VestsRated: ***** by 64 reviews.

Mountain Gear

Like the name implies, the Sub Zero Vest from Mountain Hardwear brings warmth to high altitudes and cold temperatures, without the bulk of a down jacket. Using the natural warmth and compressibility of goose down to hold heat in close to your torso while still leaving your arms free to grab that ledge, work the ski poles, or make morning coffee. Specifications based on size Large.

Features:

  • Experience the warmth of a sleeping bag around your upper body with high-quality 650-fill goose down insulation that stays fluffy and warm for season after season
  • Go ahead, trudge through the trees - the Z Rip polyester shell won't cut or abrade while the nylon taffeta shoulders take the brunt of the abuse
  • Reinforce the friendliness of the Sub Zero's 650-fill down with comforting fleece-lined pockets; interior and chest zip pockets
  • Seal in the warmth and seal out snow - one-handed hem and lower back drawcords can be easily operated without taking off your mittens
  • When the weather is warmer, pack your vest away in the included waterproof stuff sack

Altrec Outlet

Designed to give alpine climbers and mountaineers the core warmth necessary while in the backcountry or just around town, Mountain Hardwear's Sub Zero Vest for Men weights in at just over a pound and is compressible enough to cram into your already stuffed backpack. The Sub Zero, worn over your fleece midlayer to cut the morning chill or under your ski jacket to provide addition insulation at base camp, has zippered handwarmer pockets and drawstring hem making it easy to adjust on the fly.

Features:

  • 650 Fill Down
  • Center Back Length:27.5"Q lb 2 oz/521g
  • Fleece lined zipper handwarmer pockets
  • One-handed hem & lower back drawcords
  • Reinforced fabric in high abrasion areas for durability
  • Stuff Sack Included
  • Zip Closure Napolen Chest Pocket

This description was also provided by: Altrec

Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS)

When anticipated or unexpected cold weather strikes, the Mountain Hardwear® Sub Zero Vest provides lightweight, packable 650-fill goose down warmth. Vest styling enhances freedom of movement while providing vital core warmth.

Features:

  • Coated with DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finishV50-fill-power down has a superior warmth-to-weight ratio, packs down small, and lasts significantly longer than synthetic insulations
  • Exterior fabric made of down-proof, very soft Z-Rip™: 100% polyester microfiber 55-denier ripstop
  • Fleece-lined hand pockets; zip chest pocket
  • Interior zip pocket
  • One-handed hem and lower back draw cords
  • Reinforced shoulders protect from abrasion with rugged yet soft-feeling nylon with a DWR finish
  • Stuff sack included

Backcountry.com

The Mountain Hardwear Sub Zero Down Vest gives backcountry skiers and alpine climbers the core warmth they need on the mountain or simply around town. At barely over a pound, this puffy vest is shockingly light for its loft, and it fits into a small included stuff sack so you can cram it into your pack just in case. One-handed hem drawcords make this 650-fill down vest a snap to adjust on the fly, and fleece-lined hand pockets keep your fingers from turning blue and falling off.

This description was also provided by: Backcountry.com Outlet


REI

Designed for cold weather climbing and mountaineering, the Mountain Hardwear Sub Zero vest keeps your core extra warm and fits in your pack with ease.

  • Prime 650-fill-power goose down is warm, lightweight and compressible
  • Nylon taslan reinforces high abrasion areas along shoulders and backs of arms and neck
  • Full-length front zipper with interior draft flap
  • 1-hand-adjustable hem drawcord; armholes features a low-profile elastic finish
  • Comes with fleece-lined handwarmer pockets and interior and exterior chest pockets
  • Includes stuff sack


O2GearShop.com (Fall 2009)

Designed for cold weather climbing and mountaineering, 650-fill goosedown with Taslan reinforced abrasion areas take on the weather and your pack with ease.

Features:

  • Body Z Rip
  • Center Back Length 27.5" / 70 cm"
  • Fleece-lined handwarmer pockets
  • Insulation 650-Fill Goose Down
  • Interior and zip chest pockets to store small items
  • One-handed drawcords for quick fit adjustments
  • Stuff sack included
  • Usage Alpine Climbing / Mountaineering
  • Weight 1 lbs, 2 oz / 521.00 g

SummitHut.com

The Sub Zero Vest by Mountain Hardwear was designed for cold weather climbing and mountaineering. 650-Fill goose down with Taslan reinforced abrasion areas take on the weather and your pack with ease.

Features:

  • 650-Fill Goose Down insulation
  • Fleece lined hand pockets
  • Interior zip pocket
  • One handed hem and lower back drawcords
  • Reinforced abrasion areas
  • Stuff sack included
  • Zip chest pocket

USOutdoor.com

Designed for cold weather climbing and mountaineering, 650-fill goose down with Taslan reinforced abrasion areas takes on the weather and your pack with ease.

Features:

  • 27.5" length
  • Fleece-lined hand pockets
  • Interior zip pocket
  • One-handed hem and lower back drawcords
  • Polyester Z Rip body
  • Reinforced abrasion areas
  • Stuff sack included
  • Taffeta liningV50-fill down insulation
  • Zip chest pocket

Oregon Mountain Community

The Mountain Hardwear Sub Zero Vest is designed for cold weather climbing and mountaineering, 650-fill goose down with Taslan reinforced abrasion areas take on the weather and your pack with ease.

Features:

  • Fleece lined hand pockets
  • Interior zip pocket
  • One handed hem and lower back drawcords
  • Reinforced abrasion areas
  • Stuff sack included
  • Zip chest pocket

Campsaver.com

The Mountain Hardwear Sub Zero Vest is designed for cold weather climbing and mountaineering, 650-fill goosedown with Taslan reinforced abrasion areas take on the weather and your pack with ease.

Features:

  • Fleece lined hand pockets
  • Interior zip pocket
  • One handed hem and lower back drawcords
  • Reinforced abrasion areas
  • Stuff sack included
  • Zip chest pocket

Moosejaw

No description provided.

Average weight:18 ounces
Back length:27 inches
Core Venting:No
Country of Origin:China
External Pockets:3
Gender:Men's
Hood:None
Insulation:650-fill goose down
Internal Pockets:1
Liner fabric:nylon
Lining:Nylon taffeta
Manufacturer Warranty:Lifetime
Material:[Shell] Z Rip; [Lining] 30D micro taffeta
Pockets:2 Front, 1 chest
Primary Use:Alpine/Ascent
Recommended Use:Mountaineering, alpine climbing, casual
Shell fabric:Ripstop polyester
Ventilation:N/A
Waterproof:No
Waterproof Material:N/A
Weather Conditions:Snow
Weight:1 lb 2oz (521g)
Windproof:Yes

View other products from Mountain Hardwear classified in Men's Clothing > Jackets & Vests.

View all products from Mountain Hardwear.
View other products classified in Men's Clothing > Jackets & Vests.

Sometimes, we can't be sure that the product is the same across the stores that offer its, so you may find the same product listed more then once on GearBuyer.com, we these list highly similar products below.

Mountain Hardwear Sub Zero JacketMountain Hardwear Sub Zero Jacket$93.47 - $177.00

Sometimes brands make complementary products for the opposite gender that coordinate with this product, we also try to show these products below.

Mountain Hardwear Sub Zero JacketMountain Hardwear Sub Zero Jacket - Women's$79.30 - $174.99
Mountain Hardwear Sub Zero Hooded JacketMountain Hardwear Sub Zero Hooded Jacket - Women's$139.99 - $275.00
Mountain Hardwear Sub-Zero Down JacketMountain Hardwear Sub-Zero Down Jacket - Women's$67.98 - $175.00
Mountain Hardwear Sub Zero ParkaMountain Hardwear Sub Zero Parka - Women's$108.95 - $190.00

These are products that have been indicated being comparable to this product:

The North Face Apex Bionic VestThe North Face Apex Bionic Vest
Men's Clothing > Jackets & Vests
$68.97 - $99.00
The North Face Redpoint VestThe North Face Redpoint Vest
Men's Clothing > Jackets & Vests
$98.95 - $99.00
Mountain Hardwear Sub Zero JacketMountain Hardwear Sub Zero Jacket
Men's Clothing > Jackets & Vests
$93.47 - $177.00
Mountain Hardwear Sunrise 50 Sleeping BagMountain Hardwear Sunrise 50 Sleeping Bag
Hiking & Camping > Sleeping Bags & Pads
$119.99 - $180.00
Millet W3 Pro VestMillet W3 Pro Vest
Men's Clothing > Jackets & Vests
$118.90 - $169.85

Option Availability:

Use this chart to find which retailer offers this product in the size, color or other options that you desire. Click on the price to purchase.

ColorSize
SmallMediumLargeExtra LargeExtra Extra LargeN/A
Mudcloth
Mudcloth
120.00119.00120.00120.00119.00119.952 More...119.00119.952 More...119.95120.00 
Peat Moss
Peat Moss
   79.9884.9568.95 
Peat Moss / Grill
Peat Moss / Grill
     65.97
Ranger
Ranger
79.9998.952 More...98.95119.004 More...79.9998.955 More...98.95119.004 More...119.95119.952 More... 
Black
Black
79.9995.994 More...79.9995.996 More...79.9995.996 More...79.9998.956 More...98.95119.003 More... 
Blue Ice
Blue Ice
79.9995.994 More...79.9995.996 More...79.9995.995 More...79.99119.004 More...119.95119.952 More... 
Union Blue
Union Blue
 79.9979.9984.9579.9984.95  
Union Blue/ Grill
Union Blue/ Grill
  107.9661.59  
Black/ Black
Black/ Black
119.95119.95119.95119.95119.95119.95119.95119.95119.95119.95 
Cocobolo
Cocobolo
    120.00 

Legend

  •     - O2GearShop.com (Fall 2009)
  •     - Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS)
  •     - USOutdoor.com
  •     - Oregon Mountain Community
  •     - SummitHut.com
  •     - Campsaver.com
  •     - Altrec Outlet
  •     - Moosejaw
  •     - REI
  •     - Backcountry.com Outlet
  •     - Mountain Gear
  •     - Altrec
  •     - Backcountry.com

Mountain Hardwear Sub Zero Vest Reviews Summary:

RatingNumber
of Reviews
*****28
****8
***1
**0
*1
To see how this product compares to others view Men's Jacket Reviews.

Positive Reviews:

Excellent product!

Rating:*****

I bought this vest a couple years ago expecting to only wear it sparingly under a shell during very cold winter camping and skiing trips. I've subsequently found it to be my one of my favorites, and I've worn it during a variety of activities for which I never thought it would be applicable. I would highly recommend this product; it's good as an outer layer over a light fleece, under a hunting jacket, under a shell, or even over your dress shirt for commuting when you just can't stand looking like another robot in a felt coat! I'm not sure if any changes have been made, but mine has a hem drawstring as well as another one about 4 inches up from the hem across the lower back, so it can be cinched up to fit like a glove. The only other vest I have for comparison is a Patagonia micro-puff, and this one actually fits me much better. (I'm a Med in almost everything) The quality is outstanding as well; I would argue the construction is as good as or even better than my North Face Nuptse full-sleeved jacket, (circa 1998?) and I actually prefer the outside fabric on this vest to that of the Nuptse. It blew feathers for about a month, but that's all done now; also, the collar must be overstuffed, because I almost completely saturated the back of it with hydraulic oil (other than intended purpose) and it still seems to have a pretty decent loft. Finally, a quick word on aesthetics; I know earth colors are all the thing now, but I got this vest in kind of a carbon color with black and it is sick! Also, the logos are a bit more subdued - just the MH nut embroidered on the front chest and again on the center back just below the collar. I hope they go back to that so you don't look like a sponsored athlete. In conclusion: buy this vest! If you're even remotely in a cold climate (MN here) you'll find an excuse to wear it 8 months out of the year!

joe2843823 at Backcountry.com Outlet on 02/02/2009

Addictive!

Rating:*****
I bought this vest a couple years ago expecting to only wear it sparingly under a shell during very cold winter camping and skiing trips. I've subsequently found it to be my one of my favorites, and I've worn it during a variety of activities for which I never thought it would be applicable. I would highly recommend this product; it's good as an outer layer over a light fleece, under a hunting jacket, under a shell, or even over your dress shirt for commuting when you just can't stand looking like another robot in a felt coat! I'm not sure if any changes have been made, but mine has a hem drawstring as well as another one about 4 inches up from the hem across the lower back, so it can be cinched up to fit like a glove. The only other vest I have for comparison is a Patagonia micro-puff, and this one actually fits me much better. (I'm a Med in almost everything) The quality is outstanding as well; I would argue the construction is as good as or even better than my North Face Nuptse full-sleeved jacket, ( circa 1998?)and I actually prefer the outside fabric on this vest to that of the Nuptse. Finally, a quick word on aesthetics; I know earth colors are all the thing now, but I got this vest in kind of a carbon color with black and it is sick! Also, the logos are a bit more subdued - just the MH nut embroidered on the front chest and again on the center back just below the collar. I hope they go back to that so you don't look like a sponsored athlete. In conclusion: buy this vest! If you're even remotely in a cold climate (MN here) you'll find an excuse to wear it 8 months out of the year!
Joe Swendsen at Altrec on 02/02/2009

Addictive!

Rating:*****
I bought this vest a couple years ago expecting to only wear it sparingly under a shell during very cold winter camping and skiing trips. I've subsequently found it to be my one of my favorites, and I've worn it during a variety of activities for which I never thought it would be applicable. I would highly recommend this product; it's good as an outer layer over a light fleece, under a hunting jacket, under a shell, or even over your dress shirt for commuting when you just can't stand looking like another robot in a felt coat! I'm not sure if any changes have been made, but mine has a hem drawstring as well as another one about 4 inches up from the hem across the lower back, so it can be cinched up to fit like a glove. The only other vest I have for comparison is a Patagonia micro-puff, and this one actually fits me much better. (I'm a Med in almost everything) The quality is outstanding as well; I would argue the construction is as good as or even better than my North Face Nuptse full-sleeved jacket, (circa 1998?)and I actually prefer the outside fabric on this vest to that of the Nuptse. Finally, a quick word on aesthetics; I know earth colors are all the thing now, but I got this vest in kind of a carbon color with black and it is sick! Also, the logos are a bit more subdued - just the MH nut embroidered on the front chest and again on the center back just below the collar. I hope they go back to that so you don't look like a sponsored athlete. In conclusion: buy this vest! If you're even remotely in a cold climate (MN here) you'll find an excuse to wear it 8 months out of the year!
Joe Swendsen at Altrec Outlet on 02/02/2009

Affordable, quality design & construction.

Rating:*****
Purchased this vest upon my first winter 'back' in MN, where the temps plunge below 0 degrees F; and stay there! Wore it everyday for 4-5 months; it quickly became my best friend. At 650 fill power with a mix of 80% down & 20% feathers, it insulates quite well. With that much fill it's a tad bit bulky, especially beneath a parka, but that aspect is somewhat offset by an athletic cut that fits snug & is more 'fitted' than other brands. I didn't like the elastic armholes at first, but later found these to be an asset in preventing loss of body heat by 'sealing' the armhole and securing in place the wider than normal shoulders, particularly under shoulder straps. A couple drawbacks are that the torso is shorter (but then I'm long in the torso) & the vest tends to 'ride up' a bit; possibly because of the bulk from all that fill. I'm also not fond of the very noticeable & oversized MH name/logo on the chest (& logo again on upper back) but was able to tone that down by coloring it in with a Sharpie, for a black-on-black effect. Newer 2009 models seem to address this issue, in some colors, by matching the MH name/logo color to that of the garment. This item was my introduction to the MH product line. I'm pleased with the affordable, quality design & construction; I will buy more. Altrec's price on the Sub Zero beat all other brands & suppliers I considered & their customer service was helpful, informative & timely; especially when I needed to exchange sizes. All in all, you can't beat this deal; even with a stick!
Anonymous at Altrec on 09/07/2009

Sub Zero is right on

Rating:*****

Bought this vest before heading north to Saskatchewan a couple years ago where the temps fell to -25 F. It's great layering under a shell because you don't pack out the sleeves in the shell and still have mobility of the arms. I wasn't sure how much I would wear it besides freezing temps, but I'm in and out of the office a lot on jobs and found a vest is perfect not to overheat in while keeping you warm in the winter. I have a the northface version too and prefer the Mountain hardware mainly due to the outer fabric seems a little more durable. I'm not sure other than that, but the zippers too seem a little better. I took it on a hunt in Colorado hunt last year in September. We backpacked in and not knowing what kind of weather we would encounter and due to the compressibility of the vest, I took it along. Turned out to be a smart move when it started snowing. It also made a great pillow. If you're looking for a really warm vest that will last, this is the one...simple as that. It is puffy...but that's the best part when the snow's flying and it's time to hunker down.

set3239365 at Backcountry.com Outlet on 08/12/2009

Great Vest, a little big

Rating:****
Great vest overall. Packs down into a tiny ball. Stays warm in the most frigid conditions. The re-enforced shoulders and sides are great at keeping those abrasion prone areas safe. Can't beat the price. Lives up to the Mountain Hardwear name.

The only complaints I have with this vest are that it is a little on the big side in the chest and shoulders (I have a size small, am 5'7 and weigh 140, so maybe its just me). There is room enough for layers but still have a little wriggle room. The other thing is you have to be careful when zipping up the front and when compressing the jacket. The zipper can tear the outer fabric if it snags.
CatalinaBorn at Mountain Gear on 04/24/2009

Toasty, quality construction, love it

Rating:*****
This is a top vest. Build is tough, doesn't feel like it will fall apart like some down items do. Fit is great (I had a large, I am 6'3" and 175lbs)and with the 2 separate drawstrings around the back or around the whole bottom it snugs up good. 4 pockets in smart places work well, it all stuffs into the bag nice and handy. Shoulder protection works good if you want to hike with it. I just use it under waterproofs for snowboarding and it makes me feel warm and happy all day long ;)
Elke Eugen at Altrec on 08/23/2009

A great piece

Rating:****

I love this vest. I'd been looking at getting one for a while and this was the perfect choice. Very well constructed. With pockets where you need 'em. And with nice soft lined hand warmer pockets. I went with a medium. And like one other reviewer I'm 6'/170lb. And I have to totally agree. The medium is a nice snug fit without being tight. It fits perfect over a heavy sweater etc. Very comfortable and warm where you need it. Bonus, it comes with a stuff sack which might come in handy for traveling and backpacking.

rbi100203158 at Backcountry.com Outlet on 11/30/2008

Pretty good

Rating:****

I got this vest and it certainly keeps you warm, but as previously stated it does lose a lot of really small feathers. every stitch seems to have feathers coming out and i do not know if this is increasing as i wear it or not considering i've only had the vest a week. I'm 6'3" 220 and my brother is 6'3" and 165 wet and we both fit the size large, it could be a bit longer however the xl is just huge and poofy

Annonmyous at Backcountry.com Outlet on 01/05/2009

Good quality, good construction

Rating:*****
Like the fit, seems true to size (purchased mens large), have not worn a sweater underneath it yet-looking forward to the colder weather for layering for size comparison. It's warm, comforable, like the elastic arm pits I believe that will assist in layering underneath. Also like the multiple pockets, the two hand pockets are warm and comfortable. Very satisfied with the purchase so far and the customer service-chat line was helpful in deceiding which vest to purchase.
Anonymous at Altrec on 10/26/2009

Negative Reviews:

Not as good as I thought

Rating:*

Thin vest, dissapointing. Feedback from Back County not as expected. However, was good to find a good adress to get Mountain Hardwear, very hard to find in Europe.

Frans T at Backcountry.com Outlet on 01/30/2009

Neutral Reviews:

Very/Too Puffy- size down

Rating:***

I've always loved Mountain Hardware gear, but this is the first piece I've owned that I'm mixed on. It is well-made and warm, but it fits me like a life preserver (I'm 6'/170 lbs. and have a Large). Almost too bulky to wear under a shell. Personally, I'd size down one or consider a lower-profile option like the Patagonia Down Sweater Vest.

Brandon Warburton at Backcountry.com Outlet on 11/11/2008