Considering it is the undisputed champion of American outdoor apparel, naturally The North Face makes an elite winter vest. The Nuptse vest—a sleeveless version of its best selling down puffer—is arguably as popular as its sleeved counterpart. Since its 1992 release, the Nuptse has been a go-to for high-altitude explorers, however a close association with New York's hip-hop scene transformed the jacket into a streetwear staple. Available in a slew of colorways from forest green to eggplant purple, it was a favorite of downtown skaters and uptown rappers alike, with collectors lusting after rare colorways which eventually inspired multiple Supreme collaborations. The jacket proved so consistently popular that this year The North Face re-released the vest as part of its "1996 Retro" capsule.

Featuring a bulky fit with squared off shoulders, the Nuptse vest is significant enough to double as a winter coat, however versatile enough to be simpler worn with a hoodie. Add a pair of Timberland 6" boots, Rothco cargos and a Yankees hat and you're a certified New Yorker.

Although less prominent today than it was a few years back, the Nike Tech line was at one point the pinnacle of the label's burgeoning NSW (Nike Sportswear) division. Well before techwear god Errolson Hugh's stint as designer of the now defunct NikeLab ACG, Nike Tech was the sportswear behemoth's attempt to dip it's toes into the techwear scene. Though primarily known for it's then ubiquitous Tech Fleece sweatpants and hoodies, the label actually boasted a somewhat robust offering ranging from high-end knitwear to outerwear and leggings.

While the line is no longer a focus—spiritually succeeded with Matthew William's MMW x Nike training series and Jun Takahashi's Gyakusou running gear—it still exists to some extent, quietly producing some under the radar hits every season—and this vest was no exception.

Clearly influenced by Hugh's time at NikeLab ACG, the Tech Pack vest is a streamlined down-filled outer layer with a hidden hood, asyemtrical close, front kangaroo pocket and a subtle swoosh emblazoned across the chest. Featuring a high fleece-lined funnel neck and more pockets than you know what to do with, this underrated piece is perfect for those looking to dip their toes into technical clothing without going full Acronym. Though it constantly sells out, of course it's always available on Grailed.

While Moncler is known for many things, it's easily most famous for its quilted down jackets—its vests in particular. Over the past two decades, the French-based label once known for its Alps ready technical equipment has become the de-facto outerwear brand for the wealthy, with everyone from millionaire European aristocrats to your favorite rapper jumping on board. In particular, the uniquely coated, logo-emblazoned puffers are the calling card for the rich and affluent (and rightfully so).

Made with the highest-grade goose feather down fill, the Moncler puffer has long been considered best in class. The equally as popular Tib vest, featuring an elongated neck, fully-line pockets and, of course, the "M" crest patch logo is a favorite of younger clientele and though it constantly sells out, it's available on Grailed for well below retail. Hit the slopes (or the streets) in style.

We have talked at at length about the the fleece that started it all. Since 1977, Patagonia has hawked its proprietary synchilla—a double-faced pile fabric that does not pill—fleece jackets, with a vest introduced shortly thereafter. While the vest version has an unfortunate association with off-duty finance bros, in reality as Patagonia continues to dominate the menswear conversation the fleece vest is undergoing an image overhaul—the brand even famously stopped selling custom versions to financial institutions earlier this year.

With the label's progressive politics, what was once a symbol of wealth and little taste is suddenly part of the gorpcore boom—and we're all for it. Featuring DWR (durable water repellent) finish, lined hand-warmer pockets and a 100 percent recycled nylon chest pocket, the Retro-X vest is not only the perfect layering piece, its a piece with a message. Plus, the colorways are unmatched.

For those unfamiliar with Engineered Garments the New York-based label is the only U.S. brand within the Nepenthes umbrella. Designer Daiki Suzuki—formerly creative director of Woolrich Woolen Mills—produces clothing clearly rooted in workwear and Americana, however with modern design flourishes and premium fabrication.

In the case of the Fowl Vest, hunting gear clearly serves as inspiration, however the luxurious wool, lined interior and various ties are clearly aesthetic rather than functional. Still, over a hoodie or an anorak, this perfectly captures the hiking chic-aesthetic that's been trending in Japan for years—and is steadily rising stateside as well.

A part of the 1017 Alyx 9SM menswear offering since its debut collection, this down puffer vest is one of our personal favorites. Made from a high-grade goose-fill down and featuring a water-resistant outer shell, premium hardware and Alyx's trademark Roller Coaster buckle at the neck, the tactically minded vest is equal parts bondage and fashionable, a clear callback to William's time in New York, however with tons of sub-cultural undertones.

Bondage neck strap aside, in actuality the vest is easily wearable, perfect over a shell jacket or even a coat for those hoping to channel William's celebrated style. With a two-way zipper, interior pockets almost no sheen, this is one of the more low-key options on this list—and for Alyx's many fans that's exactly the way it should be. Available in black (naturally) and olive, this Alyx staple may come at a premium, however its well worth it for one of the hottest labels in menswear.

One of the fastest growing brands on Grailed, Japanese mainstay Kapital began as a denim mill in the country's famed Okayama prefecture. In the 30 years since it opened, the brand has grown exponentially, now presenting seasonal collections with hundreds of items—many of which are location exclusives. However, one of the few recurring pieces—as well as one of the most sought after—is the reversible weaving vest.

In an oversized fit, the vest weaves together multiple fabrics to create a knit effect, exactly the sort of bohemian style the label is known for. Available in a wide array of colors—including a particularly sought after bandana version—the weaving vest is equal parts '90s retro and Japanese hiker-core, and by far one of our favorites on this list. If you are willing to spend a premium, this is the one to buy.

Few labels do outerwear better than Italian fabric specialist Stone Island. Renowned for its proprietary dye techniques and cutting edge fabric technology the label—beloved by everyone from techwear enthusiasts to hooligans and even Drake—the brands army of devotees proudly wear the compass badge and boast of each item's many design flourishes.

Given that it produces top in class outerwear, naturally Stone Island makes a superb vest. While it's available every winter, the quilted down vest changes drastically from one season to the next, featuring which ever fabric innovation or dye breakthrough the brand is currently exploring. With colors ranging from snow white to neon yellow and a fully reflective silver, options are endless however each vest has one thing in common—the unmistakable compass at the chest. For those looking for an iconic piece statement piece this is the one for you. Sure, this vest tends to be loud—but with any vest, that's sort of the point.