Back in 2008 I bought these two garments. A Montbell EX Light Down Jacket and a Montbell EX Light Down Vest. They are identical pieces although one has sleeves and the other doesn’t.

At the time they were probably the lightest down garments on the planet — truly minimalist — all of which doesn’t tell us much at all.

Today, 18 years later, the Montbell jacket is still my “go to” insulation for most backpacking trips, followed by the vest. Neither item is still sold by Montbell. In this article I will explain why these pieces of gear have remained my favorites and also share similar garments that Montbell sells today.

Continue reading Montbell EX Light Down Jacket & Vest: Long Term Review →