A wind vest is perfect for when you need to keep the wind off during physical activity, yet don't want the encumbrance of a full jacket. Therefore you can keep the wind and light rain off of your torso without sacrificing freedom of movement during more strenuous sport. Quickly putting on a wind vest is a convenient way to warm up. Wind vests are light and can easily be brought along (and stowed away) in your backpack, with hardly any weight or space penalty. Softshell vests usually have a full-length zip, a small collar, and are very breathable.