James Men’s Yak Wool Zip Gilet
James is a men’s yak wool zip gilet designed to bring natural warmth through the body while leaving the arms free. Knitted from 100% yak wool in a 7 gauge / 3 ply construction, it has a smooth, quietly tactile surface and a straight men’s shape that layers comfortably over a shirt or fine jumper.
The construction is precise and functional. A tall ribbed stand collar frames the neck, the full-length zip allows the front to be adjusted, and contrast binding traces the zip and armholes. Two discreet lower-front pockets sit neatly within the body, while the clean narrow hem keeps the outline controlled rather than bulky.
James is offered in S/M, M/L and XL, with the length grading from 65cm to 67cm. Wear it as a smart indoor layer, a practical travel piece or a warm mid-layer beneath a coat when sleeves would add unnecessary bulk.
James Gilet Features
- 100% yak wool
- 7 gauge / 3 ply smooth knit construction
- Sleeveless, straight men’s gilet silhouette
- Tall ribbed stand collar
- Full-length front zip
- Contrast binding along the zip and armholes
- Two discreet lower-front pockets
- Clean narrow lower edge
- Available in S/M, M/L and XL
- Designed for flexible shirt, knit and under-coat layering
Measurements
| Size | Length | Chest | Arm Hole |
|---|---|---|---|
| S/M | 65cm | 54cm | 26cm |
| M/L | 66cm | 58cm | 27cm |
| XL | 67cm | 62cm | 28cm |
These are garment measurements. Compare the chest width and armhole with a similar gilet that fits you well. As our knitted garments are handmade, small variations may occur.
Yak Wool Colour Chart
James is available in selected yak wool colours and can also be made to order from our wider colour chart. Contact us to ask about size, colour availability and same-day dispatch options. We hold stock in our Arundel, Dartmouth and Lewes stores; if your chosen option is not currently available, delivery may take up to 20 working days as each piece is made in our Kathmandu factory.
Why James Works as a Men's Yak Wool Zip Gilet
- 100% yak wool gives James soft, breathable natural-fibre warmth
- The sleeveless cut warms the body without adding bulk at the arms
- A tall ribbed collar can sit open or be zipped higher around the neck
- The full front zip makes temperature and layering easy to adjust
- Bound armholes create a clean edge over shirts and fine knitwear
- Two lower-front pockets add practical storage without a patch-pocket look
- Three graded sizes offer a more precise men’s fit than a one-size gilet
- The 7 gauge / 3 ply knit has substance while remaining neat enough for indoor wear
Ribbed Stand Collar Gilet, Bound Armholes and Clean Zip Line
James has a tall stand collar with visible ribbing around the neck. Worn partly open, it frames a shirt collar or fine roll neck; zipped higher, it gives closer coverage without becoming a folded or rolled collar.
The full-length zip forms a clean vertical line through the centre front. Contrast binding continues around the sleeveless armholes, helping the edges sit neatly over another layer and giving the gilet its quiet, tailored definition.
Two pocket openings are worked into the lower front. They remain discreet when empty, yet are positioned for easy hand access. The hem is narrow and clean, so the body finishes without a deep ribbed band.
100% Yak Wool: Warmth Through the Core
As a 100% yak wool gilet, James offers the soft warmth, breathability and grounded handle associated with this rare natural animal fibre. Yak wool is not cashmere, although carefully prepared yak fibre can offer a similarly soft, cashmere-like comfort.
The 7 gauge / 3 ply construction gives this natural fibre mid-layer enough body to hold its straight shape without the heavy appearance of a chunky knit. Because the arms remain uncovered, warmth is concentrated through the torso while movement stays unrestricted.
Natural wool fibres can show some surface movement where they meet a bag, desk or outer layer. Resting the garment between wears and using gentle, label-led care will help preserve its finish. For more fibre detail, read our Yak Wool Guide.
Fit Notes for S/M, M/L and XL
James has a straight, easy men’s fit intended to sit over a shirt or fine knit rather than cling to the body. S/M measures 65cm in length, 54cm across the chest and 26cm at the armhole. M/L measures 66cm by 58cm with a 27cm armhole, while XL measures 67cm by 62cm with a 28cm armhole.
To choose your size, compare the chest width and armhole with a gilet you already wear comfortably. Think about the layer underneath: a shirt needs less ease, while a fine crew neck or roll neck needs a little more room through the chest and armhole.
If you sit between sizes and expect to wear James over knitwear, the larger option may give the cleaner result. Small measurement variations are part of the handmade knit construction.
How to Layer James
For smart everyday wear, zip James over an Oxford shirt and pair it with chinos or softly tailored trousers. The stand collar gives definition at the neckline, while the sleeveless shape keeps the outfit relaxed rather than formal.
In colder weather, use it over a fine crew neck or roll neck and beneath an overcoat. This creates warmth through the core without crowding the coat sleeves, which is especially useful for commuting, travel and changing indoor temperatures.
James is a men’s winter layering gilet rather than weatherproof outerwear. For more natural-fibre layers, browse our men’s knitwear collection.
Caring for James
Always follow the sewn-in care label first. To protect the yak wool, zip and bound edges, use gentle handling:
- Professional dry cleaning is the safest option when stated on the label
- If hand washing is permitted, use cold water and a small amount of mild wool cleanser
- Close the zip before washing and do not soak for an extended time
- Never rub, twist or wring the knit
- Press water out carefully with a towel, then reshape the collar, armholes, pockets and hem
- Dry flat away from radiators, direct heat and strong sunlight
- Store folded with the zip closed rather than hanging from the shoulders
- Remove occasional surface pilling gently with a suitable wool comb
Questions About the James Gilet
What is the James gilet made from?
James is knitted from 100% yak wool in a 7 gauge / 3 ply construction.
Is James a men’s yak wool zip gilet or a vest?
James is a men’s knitted zip gilet. In the UK it is usually called a gilet; shoppers in other countries may call the same sleeveless layer a yak wool sleeveless vest.
Does the James gilet have pockets?
Yes. James has two discreet lower-front pockets worked into the knitted body.
Can the stand collar be worn open?
Yes. The full-length zip lets the ribbed stand collar sit open, partly fastened or zipped higher around the neck.
How does the James yak gilet fit?
James has a straight, easy men’s fit for layering over a shirt or fine jumper. It is available in S/M, M/L and XL, with chest widths from 54cm to 62cm.
Which size should I choose for layering?
Compare the stated garment measurements with a gilet you own. Allow more ease if you plan to wear James over a fine knit rather than a shirt.
Can I wear James as outerwear?
James works best as an indoor layer or beneath a coat. It is knitted natural-fibre clothing and is not designed as weatherproof outerwear.
Is yak wool the same as cashmere?
No. Yak wool and cashmere are different animal fibres. Well-prepared yak fibre can feel cashmere-like, but it has its own character and should not be described as cashmere.
How should I care for the zip and yak wool?
Follow the care label, close the zip before cleaning, handle the knit gently, reshape it while damp if hand washing is allowed, and dry it flat away from heat.
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