First Impressions: Style Meets Substance
Kathmandu, New Zealand's premier outdoor brand, has a reputation for crafting gear that's as rugged as the landscapes that inspire it. The Epiq Womens Down Vest v2 is no exception. At first glance, it's a stylish, well-constructed gilet that feels premium to the touch. The Pertex Quantum Eco outer fabric is soft yet durable, and the baffles are plump with 600-fill-power duck down.
Unlike some outdoor gear that screams "technical," the Epiq Vest has an understated elegance. The women's version comes in a curated palette, including versatile options like Black and Taupe, which pair effortlessly with anything from hiking pants to jeans. It's clear this vest is designed not just for the trail but for everyday life. The fit is tailored but not restrictive, offering a flattering silhouette without compromising on the loft needed for insulation.
In-Depth Features: More Than Just a Puffer
Delving deeper, the Epiq Vest reveals a host of thoughtful features that elevate it beyond a simple layering piece.
- 600 Fill Power RDS Down: The core of the vest's warmth comes from its high-quality duck down. With a fill power of 600, it provides excellent insulation without adding excessive bulk. Crucially, it's certified by the Responsible Down Standard (RDS), guaranteeing ethical treatment of the birds.
- Pertex Quantum Eco Fabric: The shell is made from 100% recycled Pertex Quantum Eco fabric. This material is lightweight, wind-resistant, and allows the down insulation to fully loft. A DWR finish helps it shed light rain and snow, though it's not a substitute for a waterproof shell in a downpour.
- Smart Pocket Configuration: Functionality is key in the outdoors. The Epiq Vest features two zippered hand-warmer pockets lined with soft, brushed fabric—a welcome touch on chilly days. There's also an internal zippered chest pocket, perfect for securing a phone or keys. This pocket also cleverly houses the stuff sack for packing the vest away.
- Adjustable Hem and Comfortable Fit: An elasticated hem with adjustable drawcords allows you to trap heat and customize the fit. The high collar features a soft chin guard to prevent irritation when the vest is fully zipped.
On the Trail Performance
A vest lives or dies by its performance in the real world. During testing on crisp autumn hikes and as a layering piece for winter walks, the Epiq Vest consistently delivered. The core warmth is immediately noticeable. On days where a full jacket would lead to overheating, the vest provides the perfect balance, keeping the torso toasty while allowing arms complete freedom of movement.
The wind resistance of the Pertex Quantum fabric is impressive, effectively blocking chilly gusts. While wearing it, you can feel a distinct difference in warmth between your core and your arms, which is precisely the predicament all gilets face. For those who run hot during exertion, this is a massive advantage over a full down jacket.
Its packability is another major win. The vest compresses easily into its stuff sack, taking up minimal space in a daypack. This makes it an ideal 'just-in-case' layer for unpredictable mountain weather or a versatile travel companion for trips with fluctuating temperatures.
Sustainability and Ethics: A Brand That Cares
In an era of conscious consumerism, Kathmandu stands out. As a certified B Corporation, the brand is legally required to consider the impact of its decisions on its workers, customers, suppliers, community, and the environment. This commitment is evident in the Epiq Vest. The use of 100% recycled shell fabric and RDS-certified down demonstrates a tangible effort to reduce its environmental footprint and ensure animal welfare. Buying from Kathmandu feels like an investment in a company that aligns with outdoor values.
- Excellent core warmth from 600-fill-power duck down.
- Certified to the Responsible Down Standard (RDS).
- Lightweight and highly packable, includes a stuff sack.
- Wind-resistant Pertex Quantum Eco recycled fabric.
- Thoughtful features like fleece-lined pockets and an internal zip pocket.
- Certified B Corp, ensuring high social and environmental standards.
- Premium price point compared to some competitors.
- Limited color options available in some regions.
- Not fully waterproof, designed for dry, cold conditions.
- Sleeveless design means arms can get cold in certain conditions.
Our Verdict:
The Kathmandu Epiq Womens Down Vest v2 is a superb all-rounder that justifies its premium price with quality materials, thoughtful design, and a strong ethical backbone. It provides exceptional core warmth in a lightweight, packable, and stylish package.
Who Should Buy This:
Highly recommended for anyone seeking a versatile, high-performance down vest for three-season use, from urban errands to trail adventures. If you value sustainable manufacturing and a product that will last, the Epiq Vest is an excellent choice.
