I have a Simms Freestone Mesh Vest. I tend to run hot even on cold winter days and the mesh is a blessing.
Here’s an update. My wife took the vest to a local cleaner who does alterations. They are sewing a new heavy duty zipper on it for $12.00 an it’ll be ready Tuesday. I’m going fishing Saturday and will have to use an old vest that I didn’t like too much for that day but my favorite vest will be back Tuesday with a new zipper.
I have a birthday coming up in November and there’s always Christmas. If I find one that I like better between now and then, I may be getting one then.
I definately want a heavy duty zipper. I don’t need a whole bunch of pockets as I travel pretty light, but I like a lot of different shape pockets to hold my stuff. I like a few pockets that are zippered instead of velcro. If the new zipper works out, I may just keep the one I have because I do like it and it meets my needs.
I do want to look at some of the packs you guys talked about to see if I would like them better than the vest.
Thanks for the input and suggestions.
Jeff
go to cabela’s or orvis or lleanss and search–there are an UNBELIEVABLE number of vests. etc out there–look aroun–maybe a lanyard is all YOU need
I’ve got a Simms vest that lets me wade way too deep and carry way too much stuff. Probably not the safest combination. 8T 
I have an old columbia vest that serves the purpose. Funny though I never zip it. It has storage on both the inside and out so it is just easier that way. I try vests and packs on all the time and never seem to find one I like, so I stick with my first vest. When I find one I like I’ll let everyone know I am sure. But good luck on your search. Just try a bunch until you get one you like.
For many years I wore a Doug Swisher vest that I bought from him somewhere around 1985. Then, unfortunately I put on a few pounds, (more than a few if the truth be told) and I had to find something in a larger size. I went through several that I didn’t like, and then a couple of years ago at the Somerset Show, I found just what I was looking for, and for a very small price, ($25, I think) It was made by GLoomas, and I guess they had decided not to market them, because I’ve never seen another, nor have I ever seen an ad for one.
It has very fancy GLoomis name tags in several places, and GLoomis and the “Fish” embroiderd on one of the chest pockets. All in all, it’s a very nice vest.
Anyone else ever see one?
what color is your g.loomis vest?
ive seen a tan one with white logos all over it.
Flyandtie,
That sounds like the one I have. I like it.
Bob
Cool,
personally i wouldnt care for a vest with logos all over it.
i fish their rods, i think thats enough endorsment from me. 