Even in spring or summer it is often chill, and a gilet is a great way to keep your body warm when out on the hill or round the BBQ as the sun goes down.
These sleeveless garments also make a very good backup to lighter top layer jackets when out and about and can be easily packed away when not required, says Mike Gormley.
The SV 9 Gilet from Snugpak is the highest performing of two of this range, with the SV3 available if you prefer a bit less warm and bulk. I have been using the SV 9 as winter hopefully moves to spring here in UK and have found it ideal for proving that added bodily warmth when the chill is in the breeze, as it often seems to be.
The SV stands for Softie Vest, as it utilises Snugpak’s own and effective Sortie Premier insulation. Not only is it warm but also water and wind resistant. As ever with Snugpak, they cater for a wide range of end users, both civvy and military, with a colour range to suit most.
The SV9 has pull cords to adjust hem and neck, which is also made from soft feel fabric and zips up high and cosy to keep the chill out around your neck. Zipped handwarmer pockets and a good sized internal zipped security pocket are part of the SV’s features.
All in all a very useful garment, with the bonus of being made at Snugpak’s own factory in Yorkshire. Available in five colours, including Multicam, and from Sizes XS through to XXL, this gilet can be bought online from the SV9 page on Snugpak.com
Review by Mike Gormley, images © Mike or Jean Gormley