Introduction
Backpacking with a vest as a mid-layer provides freedom of movement in shoulders and arms while eliminating bulk from jacket sleeves. Having no sleeves reduces interference while performing camp skills such as cooking. Also, a vest provides greater wind and moisture resistance than an ultralight fleece vest.
| Exterior Fabric / Fill Type | Compressibility | Weather Resistance | Insulation Ability When Wet | Wind Resistance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fleece / No Fill | Low | Low | High | Low |
| Polyester Ripstop / Down | High | Medium | Low | High |
| Polyester Ripstop / Synthetic | Medium | High | Medium | High |
* low to high rating assumes all vests are the same temperature rating, the same size with basic DWR treatment on exterior fabric face, and none are a hybrid product.
The Mountain Equipment Co-Op (MEC) Uplink Vest is a performance vest with styling from one of Canada’s premier outdoor gear designers. The mid-layer is available in gender-specific designs and made in a variety of colors and offered at an affordable price (92.40 USD.)
Features
- Ripstop polyester shell
- Treated with DWR
- Synthetic, water-repellent, packable, soft, lightweight Primaloft Gold Insulation
- Elastic baffles
- Fleece lined chin guard and high collar
- Breathable, durable, elastic Schoeller underarm panels
- Heat-trapping elasticized hip and arm holes
- Hand warmer pockets
- Internal chest pocket/stuff sack
Specifications
- Weight: 7.9 oz (224 g)women’s small
- Type: insulated synthetic mid layer
- Insulation Technology: PrimaLoft Gold, 60 g/sq. m
- Shell: quilted polyester, water resistant DWR
- Lining: ripstop polyester
- Pockets: 2 handwarmer/1 internal zipper
Performance
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Discussion
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Companion forum thread to: MEC Uplink Vest Review
The author tests out the water resistance and warmth of the MEC Uplink Vest with a friendly price point from a Canadian company.
Thanks for the review. It’s nice to see Canadian content on both gear and locations. Often gear that makes sense in the US is hard to get and expensive here in Canada. MEC offers great value.
I couldn’t find the Men’s version on the MEC.ca website, maybe it’s not available anymore.
Hi Josh, at the time of publication the Men’s version was available. I can’t see it there now but they have the jacket and hoodie available. I suspect the vest will be back in the fall line up. Insulating layers from MEC seem to go through seasonal availability. Rain Jackets are much the same. If the jacket or hoodie is interesting to you: http://www.mec.ca/shop/?q=uplink
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