It’s no doubt that Penfield has been on everyone’s radar for a couple years now. They produce some outstanding looking outerwear – pieces that have a vintage feel but without the smell. The first place I saw Penfield (live) was at Sid Mashburn’s place – they just started carrying the Outback vest.
While Penfield pieces are an investment, every once in a while you find a sale. Enter Black Friday – Penfield offered a ‘Mix and Match’ special, which equated to 20% off any two items, plus free shipping. It took my friend Cooper about three minutes to jump on board…
I (actually we) pulled the trigger on the Outback down vest in the color ‘Cobalt’. $150 – 20% = a really good deal.
In high school I had a vintage Eddie Bauer down vest – and this reminds me of that ‘feel’. It doesn’t puff as much as most down vests, and the arms are cut a little higher. The fit is snug, which is the way these vests are supposed to fit. More like a life vest – not a Michelin Man costume.
The vest has great touches – contrasting red interior lining, internal flannel shoulder yoke, and NO zipper. The simplicity is what’s nice.
The 60/40 cotton/nylon fabric gives it a much sturdier feel than other (all-nylon) puffer vests.
Such a cool color: ‘Cobalt Blue’. I really like this one. I’m not really a ‘vest over a bunch of layers’ type of guy – I usually wear this over a long sleeve button up – OCBD, plaid, etc. Since this vest isn’t tactical or fancy, the blue gives it just the right amount of pop needed. Welcome to the rotation.
JRS: The one thing that has kept me from purchasing a Penfield vest is that I can not discover where it is manufactured. Not having a Penfield retailer leaves me with little more than their website which does not disclose that. Is the vest made here in the USA? Looks great!