Layer up with the best men’s designer gilets 2021

Before we kickstart the iconic lineup of best men’s designer gilets of 2021, let us take you on a guide of what a gilet has to offer. For starters, a gilet is the perfect transitional garment for in-between seasons. You might be wondering ‘why no arms?’ but this is arguably the best trait of a gilet. The sleeveless feature allows for flexibility and movement, making your day-to-day life easier without any restrictions. The evolution of the gilet can be traced back to being worn as a sleeveless jacket, usually made from leather. And much like today, the two main functions were to keep the wearer warm whilst allowing freedom of movement. With a combination of practicality and style, gilets are something everyone needs in their wardrobe. But which is the best men’s designer gilet of 2021?

Who needs arms when you have a hood?

The first contender for the best bodywarmer is the hooded gilet. For obvious reasons, this is a favorite thanks to the extra warmth provided by the hood. Not only is a hood warmer than a hat, by covering your head you are also covering your neck meaning there are fewer places where the cold air can sneak in.

A personal favorite when it comes to a hooded gilet is the CP Company Hooded Gilet in Desert Sun, with features such as two large side zip pockets, a lightweight padded structure, and the iconic goggle lenses to the hood, it’s clear to see why it’s such a hit. With the eye-catching orange exterior, it’s the perfect layering piece to complement a full dark look.

If you’re more into the darker styles, the Moncler Montreuil Vest in Navy may be more your thing. With premium nylon construction and down filling providing maximum insulation, you won’t even realise that you don’t have sleeves. Other features include zipped pockets and an adjustable hood perfect for that personalised fit. Or maybe you’d prefer something superbly lightweight, windproof, and waterproof like a Paul and Shark Padded Gilet. Styled with quilted baffles and packed with functions such as a two-way zipper, two secure pockets, and crafted from a high-density 20 denier yarn, could Paul and Shark have created the best men’s designer gilet?

Powerful puffers:

Next up is the iconic puffer gilets, your best friend during those nippy days. Years ago, puffer jackets created a Michelin Man silhouette, however, now padded jackets are much more on-trend, and there are much worse things to be in trend than an insulated garment to keep you warm all winter long. With air trapped in the padding ensuring body heat remains inside the jacket, you are guaranteed to stay toasty. Pair your padded gilet with a hoodie, sweatshirt, or long-sleeved top, depending on the occasion that arises. Because of its versatility, you can wear almost anything under a gilet.

Some favorites that have landed here at Aphrodite include The North Face 1996 Retro Nuptse Vest in Arrowwood Yellow. Before we even begin describing this gilet, you know that if it’s outerwear from The North Face, it’s going to be next-level insulated. A modern reincarnation of a classic North Face icon, this yellow garment utilizes baffle construction to provide the most warmth to your body possible. This retro-styled gilet features a boxy silhouette, exposed center zip, and zipped side pockets for practicality and protection. If that wasn’t enough, this winter warmer is finished with a water repellent feature, what more could you want?

Maybe a Stone Island Padded Gilet? From the Italian powerhouse, this gilet couldn’t get any better. With a padded design and down-feather filling, this gilet will be your best friend when the cooler weather hits. Features include a concealed drawstring hood, two side zip-fastening pockets, and a full front zip fastening to keep the cold air out of your life this AW21.

Or are you after something more out there, why not consider the Canada Goose Crofton Vest in Red. This eye-catching gilet is constructed from recycled featherweight ripstop nylon for wind and water resistance. Boasting a vibrant red colour, this garment can easily be worn with your monochrome staples and worn every day thanks to its practical features such as the two external pockets and one internal pocket.

Fleece Fits:

Last but not least, we have the fleece gilets, a more tactile and breathable layering piece to add to your wardrobe. The fluffy pile surface traps pockets of air between the threads, making the material hold in that bit more warmth. Not only is a fleece gilet light and slim, but it also works well styled underneath a jacket or a coat.

Here at Aphrodite, there is a range of fleece gilets, including the Rains Fleece Vest in Black. This versatile transitional piece, designed to be worn as a layering silhouette this AW21 is cut to a boxy shape with accents such as a vertical quilted panel, a stand-up collar, and a zipped pocket. This gilet is not only stylish but also practical, and it is all thanks to the concealed side pockets so stash your equipment. To complete the look, you’ll find an adjustable elasticated hem, and a detachable Velcro patch with reflective details.

Or maybe you’re after something more like the Patagonia Classic Retro X Vest in Natural. Who needs sleeves when you have a bonded Sherpa fleece garment? Lined with warp knit mesh for additional moisture and with windproof qualities, this part-recycled piece is the perfect piece for long hikes, especially with the HeiQ fresh durable odor control.

Or maybe you’re after something bolder, something that is sure to stand you out in a crown for all the right reasons, something like the Stussy Fillmore Sherpa Gilet. Presented in a muli-coloured pattern that creates a zig-zag effect in red, mustard, and black. Constructed from a blend of polyester and acrylic Sherpa fleece, this bodywarmer features a full-length zipper, a raised collar neckline, and a nylon chest patch to the left of the chest for that extra bit of practicality.

The great thing about a vest or gilet is the versatility, you can wear just about anything under a gilet and alongside this, a gilet can offer ample wear in an assortment of outdoor pursuits including hiking and cycling. This is all thanks to the practicality of not having restrictions from sleeves. Coming in all different styles, hooded, puffer, and fleece, there will always be something to suit your needs.

Browse the best men’s designer gilets 2021 in-store and online at Aphrodite.