One vest to rule them all! We're big fans of REI's Endeavor line of clothing, and this vest absolutely rocks. The double-weave 89% polyester/11% spandex material is the best of all worlds: UPF 50, breathable, wind resistant and repellent of light precipitation. It's the ultimate travel clothing, the shorts having survived a month of bushwhacking in the Yucatan among other tests.
Lately we've been living in the Endeavor vest. It's a format we've been looking for lo these many years, an ultralight vest with two reach-across chest pockets and two hand pockets, all zipped. Why ultralight? Sometimes all you need is a little wind protection, just a tad more warmth, or a few pockets. OK, fine, it's the pockets that sold us. Why some vendors only include one chest pocket has always been a mystery to us. The big deal is you can warm your hands and not worry about losing essential small items such as wallet and cell phone, which are tucked safely in the chest pockets.
The Endeavor vest has a soft tricot collar lining and a hem drawcord, and that's it. It has a close athletic fit, and if it came in black it would be an awesome addition to your work wardrobe. The material – did we mention it rocks? – is tough and stretchy, always returning to a classy pressed look with minimal care. Highly recommended. More colors please.