Guideline Loft Vest - Ash/Iron

Craftsmanship & Construction

The Loft Vest is constructed from 100% recycled 20D nylon outer fabric, treated with a PFAS-free durable water repellent (DWR) finish and certified to the bluesign® environmental standard. Filling is provided by Guideline’s own Guideloft™ insulation — a 60 g synthetic filling made from 100% recycled polyester composed of 80% solid fibers and 20% hollow/helical fibers. The combination delivers a soft hand-feel, strong structure and excellent packability. Despite lightweight construction, the vest offers reliable wind-resistance and water resistance through its construction.

Fit & Comfort

The design emphasises freedom of movement: elasticated, flexible armholes allow full casting motion without restriction, while the high neck collar helps trap warmth around the core. The cut and padding deliver a comfortable fit whether worn over base-layers or under a shell — or as a standalone layer on milder days.

Practical Use & Versatility

Though engineered for fishing, the Loft Vest doubles as a smart casual piece for travel, campsite days or everyday wear. Its light pack size and integrated stuff-bag internal pocket make it easy to stow in a backpack when not in use — a handy feature for angling trips or hikes.

Key Features

• Guideloft™ 60 g synthetic insulation for excellent warmth-to-weight ratio
• Windproof, water-resistant 100% recycled 20D nylon shell with PFAS-free DWR
• High-neck collar for core warmth and wind protection
• Elasticated armholes for unrestricted casting motion
• Multiple attachment points (net holder, nylon daisy-chain loops) for fishing gear
• Padded hand pockets with YKK® zips and fleece lining for warmth and storage
• Internal zippered pocket that doubles as a stuff-bag for compact packing
• Adjustable bottom hem to seal warmth and customise fit
• Lightweight and packable — ideal as mid- or outer-layer
• Environmentally conscious construction: bluesign® fabrics and recycled materials

Materials & Care

Main shell material: 100% recycled nylon 20D with PFAS-free DWR treatment. Insulation: 100% recycled Guideloft™ polyester (60 g, blend of solid and hollow/helical fibers). The vest is designed for water resistance through construction rather than heavy waterproofing — spot clean or wipe down as needed, and allow to air dry thoroughly. Avoid heavy washing or abrasive detergents to preserve the DWR finish and insulation integrity.

Specifications

• Colour: Walnut / Algae Green
• Weight: 295 g (size L)
• Shell: 100% recycled nylon 20D, bluesign® approved
• Insulation: 60 g Guideloft™ synthetic fill (100% recycled polyester)
• Construction: Windproof, water-resistant outer, insulated core
• Eco credentials: PFAS-free DWR, recycled materials, bluesign® certification
• Features: High-neck collar, elastic armholes, multiple gear attachment points, padded hand pockets, internal stuff-bag pocket, adjustable hem

Guideline Loft Vest - Ash/Iron Review

The Guideline Loft Vest – Ash/Iron is a thoughtfully engineered insulated vest that brings together utility, comfort and understated style. Tailored for anglers — especially fly fishers who need freedom of movement and weather protection — it also works seamlessly as a lightweight mid-layer for travel or casual outdoor wear. Its standout strength lies in delivering core warmth without bulk or restriction.

Loft Vest Performance & Key Features

The vest delivers dependable warmth and versatility in a compact, packable package.

• Guideloft™ insulation ensures a warm torso even in chilly conditions, while keeping the overall weight low.
• Windproof and water-resistant outer fabric helps shield against breezes and light moisture — useful on damp mornings by the water.
• Thoughtful practical touches like net attachment loops, daisy-chain gear loops and ample pocketing make it highly functional for fishing sessions.
• Elastic armholes and a high collar provide comfort and mobility — ideal whether casting over river or strolling through camp.

Build Quality & Handling

The Loft Vest feels robust yet light. The recycled nylon shell is durable enough for regular outdoor use, and the quality of stitching, YKK® zips and padded elements supports long-term reliability. At roughly 295 g (size L), it’s light enough to layer without burdening your kit, yet substantial enough to deliver genuine insulation — handling and layering up is simple and intuitive.

Is the Loft Vest Easy to Use?

Yes — it’s designed with simplicity and practicality in mind. Slipping it on and off is effortless, and the elasticated armholes allow unrestricted movement straight out of the bag, without fiddling with adjustments. Zippered pockets and internal storage add to everyday convenience, while exterior loops and net attachment points make this vest ready-to-go for fishing or travel without additional mods.

Key Takeaways of the Guideline Loft Vest – Ash/Iron

This vest stands out as a versatile, eco-aware layering piece that bridges the gap between technical fishing gear and casual outdoor wear. Its excellent warmth-to-weight ratio, functional design and packability make it a solid choice for anglers seeking a reliable mid-layer, as well as travellers or outdoor enthusiasts needing compact insulation. While not a heavy-duty waterproof jacket, it offers solid protection in breezy, damp conditions — making it ideal as part of a layering system. For anyone wanting a practical, stylish, and environmentally conscious vest for fishing and beyond, this is a highly recommended addition to your kit.

Guideline Loft Vest - Ash/Iron FAQs

How warm is the Loft Vest for fishing in cold weather?

The Loft Vest uses Guideloft™ synthetic insulation (60 g), which provides a strong warmth-to-weight ratio. It traps heat at the core while remaining lightweight, making it suitable for chilly early-morning sessions or cool weather angling. As part of a layered system (e.g. over a base layer or under a shell), it will deliver reliable comfort when the temperature drops.

Is the Loft Vest waterproof or just water-resistant?

The outer shell is treated with a PFAS-free DWR and is designed to be water-resistant and windproof, which helps in light rain or drizzle. However, it is not a fully waterproof jacket — heavy rain or prolonged exposure will likely penetrate the shell, so it’s best paired with a waterproof outer layer for wet conditions.

Can you cast freely while wearing the Loft Vest?

Yes — elasticated armholes and a cut that respects shoulder and arm mobility ensure that casting motion isn’t restricted. The designers prioritized freedom of movement, making it a practical vest for fly fishing or other casting techniques.

Is the Loft Vest easy to pack and travel with?

Absolutely. The Loft Vest is lightweight and compressible; it even folds into its own internal zippered pocket which doubles as a stuff-sack. That feature makes it ideal for anglers on the move, travel, or hiking where saving space and weight matters.

Does the Loft Vest have storage for gear?

Yes — it includes padded hand-warmer pockets with YKK® zips and fleece lining, internal zip pocket (which doubles as a stuff-bag), and external nylon daisy-chain loops plus a net attachment point on the chest. These features give anglers secure and handy storage for tools, accessories or small gear while on the water.

Is this vest environmentally friendly?

Yes. The Guideline Loft Vest is built with recycled materials: both the outer shell (100% recycled nylon) and the insulation (100% recycled Guideloft™ polyester). Additionally, the vest uses a PFAS-free DWR finish and fabrics certified by bluesign®, reflecting a commitment to reduced environmental impact.

What sizes does the Loft Vest come in, and how does the sizing run?

The Loft Vest is available in sizes from S through 3XL. Because the vest is often used over base layers or fleece, many anglers size it with room for layering — so if you tend to wear thicker layers, consider ordering one size up for comfort.

For more options, explore the full range of Guideline fishing clothing here.