When it comes to utility vests, there is a vast array of styles and designs on the market. Some of them are specifically intended for the anglers or hunters, however, the Royal Robbins’ Field Guide Vest has several innovative features that are a cut above other utility vests. The Field Guide Vest can come in handy in a whole host of activities including travelling, hiking, angling, hunting, kayaking, and much more. In this product review, I will discuss a variety of the Field Guide’s uses and how its many unique features make it a fantastic multipurpose utility vest.
Pocket Love
I took the Field Guide Vest out for a hike in the woods. For anyone who can never have too many pockets, this vest features 13 exterior and 4 interior pockets. This enabled me to carry my cellphone, water bottle, pocket knife, wallet, and iPod. I had several left over pockets for souvenirs from the forest (if I were so inclined). With so many pockets, the necessity for a daypack was practically eliminated. It was pleasing to find the structure of the Field Guide distributed the weight of the items in my pockets very well. Another cool factor was the vest comfortably fit underneath my hoodie which provided me with power of 19 pockets!
Material & Design
When moving around outside, the prospect of overheating is undesirable. Since the Field Guide is comprised of two layers of nylon, I found the experience cooling and enjoyable. It occurred to me that the Field Guide could be worn in all kinds setting and still be breathable and unobtrusive. There is also a nifty zipper on the back panel that allows your back to ventilate. This feature is useful especially when you are carrying a heavy backpack. The inner lining is made out of a mesh which allows the vest to dry quickly. I wore the vest outside in the rain for over an hour. After coming back indoors, the vest went from wet to damp in a matter of minutes. Granted, removing the vest and wringing it out is quicker and more effective to dry it out when it’s wet. Another great feature about the material is its UPF 30+ protection. On a sunny day, you can help keep the sun’s ultraviolet rays away from your skin.
Vest Verdict
Considering all of the Field Guide’s serviceable features, I concluded that it’s definitely a great option when seeking out a utility vest. Since this vest is lightweight, contains many pockets, dries quickly, and is very breathable, the use potential for travel and outdoor sports is exceptionally high.
The good:
- Comfortable padded neck and shoulders
- Lightweight and breathable
- Pockets galore
- UPF 30+ protection
- Dries quickly, great for outdoor and water sports
- Good alternative to a daypack
The bad:
- Only available in one color
Royal Robbins Field Guide Vest is available from Royal Robbins for $95.
All photos by Anthony Frohlich