High Sierra Topix

Anyone still use a vest in the backcountry as part of their layering? If yes, why and what?
Had a WM down vest several years ago, but haven't taken a vest into the backcountry for a long while, I do wear some older Patagonia vests during the Fall/Winter season back home sometimes.

If weather forecast calls for near freezing temps in the AM, I bring one to warm up my core at the start of the morning's hike. Usually comes off after a couple of hours. Because I use it for hiking, down is out. My choices are either a Marmot DriClime vest or a Patagonia NanoAir light hybrid vest. I have a down vest that I used to take for post hiking warmth. Old age (mine) rendered it obsolete, as I now need my down jacket for warmth at night.

WM down vest has been basic element of my backcountry outfit for several years. Usually next to the last layer in the evening under my ul windbreaker. That way it stays clean when eating or if wearing when fishing or anything else where there is risk of getting dirty. Also wrap it around my air pillow inside my reversible clothes bag that is fleece lined and serves as my pillowcase--just as comfy as home.

A vest adds warmth without undue restriction to arms. This is pretty important when alpine rock climbing. Also, sleeves on some jackets (those tight ones used by climbers) limit layering of too many items with sleeves. Now that I am just backpacking, I instead take a light down sweater. I still have several vests: down, fleece and a florescent orange nylon one I use when hiking during hunting season. Sometimes I add the down vest in shoulder season. Fishermen also use vests with tons of little pockets.