I’ll be trustworthy with you, I’ve by no means actually been a vest man. The entire idea has all the time appeared somewhat off to me. If it’s chilly sufficient for a vest, why wouldn’t I simply put on a jacket? That mentioned, 5.11 was very sort to ship over their Chimera Reversible Vest, I figured now was pretty much as good a time as any to see if this class had one thing to supply. Two sides, twelve pockets, and PrimaLoft insulation? Alright, I’ll chunk.
Extra 5.11 on AO:
Specs: 5.11 Chimera Reversible Vest
Insulation: 100g PrimaLoft GoldDesign: Reversible full-zipEssential Facet Pockets: Two chest pockets with snap flaps, two zippered doc pockets, two zippered hand pockets, pass-through openingReverse Facet Pockets: 4 invisible zipper openings with elastic utility loops, two hand pocketsComplete Pockets: 12Extra Options: Locker loop on neck seam, 5.11 woven label and warmth switch logosSizes: Small via 2XLargeColours: Duck Brown (mine), Black, Ranger Inexperienced, Tank Inexperienced/Climate Orange, Darkish Earth/CoyoteMSRP: $130.00
“The Chimera Reversible Vest flips the script on on a regular basis put on with full-time perform and all-condition heat. One aspect’s all-business utility. The opposite’s slick, low-profile grit. Zip it up, flip it over, and get after it. The Chimera doubles down via the nippiness.”
First Impressions: 5.11 Chimera Reversible Vest
I grabbed the Massive in Duck Brown, which I believe is the best-looking “do all” type of colorway for this piece. Out of the packaging, the very first thing I observed was how genuinely reversible this factor is. Some “reversible” clothes really feel like an afterthought on one aspect, not the Chimera.
Each side really feel intentional and full. One aspect has that conventional puffy vest look you’d count on from an insulated layer, clear strains, and understated. Flip it over, and also you get one thing that reads extra like a fishing vest or a tactical piece with seen pocket flaps and extra utility-forward styling.
The match ran true to measurement on me, although I’ll say it sits somewhat larger and poofier than I usually desire, so I’d be tempted to strive the scale beneath. It wasn’t uncomfortable by any means and didn’t require any changes. It sat on my shoulders naturally and moved nicely. Simply bear in mind that for those who’re between sizes or like a extra fitted look, you would possibly wish to measurement down.
Discipline Testing: 5.11 Chimera Reversible Vest
That is the place my skepticism of vests normally type of held true, however not via any fault of the Chimera itself. I wore this vest on a number of events together with sooner or later the place temps dipped into the one digits… I reside in MN, it’s a blast. Right here’s the factor: it’s not tremendous heat. I do know that sounds counterintuitive for an insulated vest with PrimaLoft Gold, however I discovered myself sporting it over a sweatshirt or heavier base layer anyway. The insulation takes the sting off and retains your core comfy, however this isn’t the piece you’re grabbing for those who want critical heat.
That mentioned, layered appropriately, it dealt with the chilly simply advantageous. The only-digit day was completely manageable with the fitting underlayers. I believe the place this vest shines is in these transitional temps the place a full jacket is overkill however a hoodie alone leaves you somewhat chilly.
I did truly flip and use either side all through my testing, which stunned me. The utility aspect, with its extra seen pockets, was nice for days after I wanted fast entry to gadgets and didn’t care about wanting somewhat extra “tactical.” The puffy aspect cleaned up properly for working errands or grabbing lunch. I might see, with prolonged use, one aspect turning into the “by no means contact” possibility for some individuals relying on their life-style, however I genuinely bought use out of each.
Talking of pockets, there are twelve of them, and so they’re all legitimately helpful. The hidden pockets on either side are deep sufficient to truly maintain gadgets securely (like a carry gun), and the zippered doc pockets on the primary aspect are good for a cellphone or pockets. I didn’t carry hid on this vest, however I can completely see how the hidden utility pockets would work nicely for that goal. The pass-through opening on the primary aspect would provide you with fast entry to an IWB holster beneath with out a lot fuss.
No quirks to report. Zippers ran easily and by no means caught on the material. Nothing felt low-cost or poorly assembled. The PrimaLoft insulation doesn’t bunch or migrate after sporting, and the entire thing holds its form nicely.
Remaining Ideas: 5.11 Chimera Reversible Vest
Did the Chimera convert me right into a vest man? Not completely. I nonetheless assume I’d attain for a jacket 9 occasions out of ten in chilly climate. However this vest makes a stable case for itself in these particular situations the place full sleeves are an excessive amount of and layering is smart. The truth that it genuinely works as two completely different vests relying on which aspect you’re rocking provides actual worth right here. You’re primarily getting two appears to be like and two pocket configurations in a single buy.
When you’re already a vest individual otherwise you work in an setting the place layering is vital, the Chimera is value a critical look. It’s nicely made, comfy, and extra versatile than most vests I’ve come throughout.
In closing, I wish to say thanks to five.11 Tactical for permitting AllOutdoor and myself the chance to check out their Chimera Reversible Vest. That’s tremendously appreciated. Additionally, we wish to know what all of you guys and gals assume? Do you consider that the Chimera is value spending your cash on? Would you rock either side or simply stick to 1? Tell us all your ideas within the Feedback beneath! We all the time admire your suggestions.
