The North Face Men's Nuptse 2 Vest

You might be looking at this vest thinking that the 700-fill goose down insulation with a DWR coating are some pretty good features.
But let me tell you something-those are just facts, and facts will get you nowhere. Let me tell you about some real-life situations where I've used the Nuptse 2 Down Vest that will give you a better idea about how "warm" it actually is.
1.) Night skiing with a -20 windchill because your little cousin, "isn't done skiing yet."
2.) Ice fishing all day without a heater (or a bite).
3.) Deer Hunting/falling asleep all day without a heater.
4.) Trying to get cab rides at 3:00 on New Years.
5.) Re-enacting scenes from Cool-Runnings at the ice rink.
Hopefully, this gives you a better idea of the warmth of the Nuptse 2 Down Vest instead of the silly specs and science. But, if you're in to that stuff, hit up a gearhead.

My husband searched high and low for a down vest and we decided on the Nuptse 2. It's very stylish and the grey color goes with pretty much everything. We initially ordered the medium, b/c that's what he normally wears, but i was a little unsure based on the measurement chart. He's 6'1", 165 lbs. It arrived and was way too big. We considered having it altered, but his guy advised against it so we returned and got a small. He likes a tailored slim fit and when the small came in, it was perfect! The returns process was easy and customer service was fantastic to deal with!

I bought this vest with the intetion of using it for outdoor winter work. Since I am usually warmer than the average person I thought a vest would be ideal. The fit is true to size and construction is top-notch, as to be expected with North Face gear. The padded and durable shoulders will stand up to greater wear and tear vs. normal constuction. Also, the mini rip-stop nylon construction prevents snags from becoming gashes. Overall this is a great vest with supperior warmth retention. Core appears noticably warmer as soon as zipped up. Would highly recommend.

When the sun was shining, I was able to put this vest over my Salomon insert and stay warm (with a T-shirt and thermal layer) while glacier skiing atop the Alps. Off the mountain, toss it over a sweater or hoody and it kept me warm. I traded up from the 550, which seemed a little dingy for the mountain, being used as a outer layer to keep my core warm.
Wish there was an inner breast pocket.

nice quality, although the feathers poke out quite a bit. bought it for a gift, had to exchange for bigger size. boyfriend is 200 lbs, 6'1- had to get the XL. he loves it, perfect "weight" for winter and nice enough to wear as a coat- he thinks it is warmer than a jacket! thanks backcountry, great customer service!