My favorite vest is a discontinued Cabela's cotton/nylon blend that is light, roomy, cool, and quick drying. I have tried for years to find another that I like as well, and nothing comes close. I have a Pella and it is well made, but hot. The Columbia Cockbird and its variations are pretty good and distribute the weight well because of the shoulder construction, but also hot. Columbia keeps changing their vests for no apparent reason (fashion?) so I'm not sure about the current ones. All three of these vests have separate water bottle sleeves and zippered or velcro compartments for all the stuff we carry on long hikes. I have also bought some less expensive vests and had a tailor shop add pockets, sleeves, and straps in an attempt to duplicate the old Cabela's vest. I don't like strap vests because I find that I get snagged in heavy brush and my gun mount can be hindered by clothing under the strap.
