This is a simple vest that I knitted from some of my handspun 100% alpaca from my female, Arabesque (aka "Pinka"). This little one produces the nicest, fluffiest yarn! And it is blindingly white. You can't beat alpaca for softness or warmth! I would stack my alpaca vest up against any Polartec 300 performance vest as a serious warmth layer in cold weather but it's much nicer looking than Polartec. However, if I ever make it again, I will use needles that are 2 sizes smaller to knit the bottom ribbin. Live and learn right?