With Spring being just around the corner it's worthwhile starting to plan ahead for what you might need when those nights start drawing out and the weather starts to improve (but not quite shorts and T shirt weather just yet!). Besides having more light and (fingers crossed) better weather to look forward to, for dog owners this only means one thing- more walks! However, wearing fewer clothes unfortunately doesn't mean that you need to take fewer accoutrements out walking with you. Whatever you wear it needs to have enough room for all of the (biodegradable) poop bags, door keys, phone and, don't forget the dog treats for your pampered pooch. With that in mind, The Good Kennel Guide has compiled our list of the best Gilets and Vests for Dog Walking.

Rohan Men's Helios Vest £130

Rohan Womens Helios Vest £130

The Fantastic Helios Vest is available in both Women and Men's collections. They offer great levels of core warmth and excellent freedom of movement in a compact and super lightweight package. This is ideal for an all day walk or hike as they are so lightweight and packable. What's more there are deep pockets for all of your dog walking essentials. The men's version comes in black and orange and the ladies comes in black and purple.

Both vests are designed with 100% recycled polyester Insuloft insulation to shield you from the cold. The Helios Vest is a lightweight and compact insulated layering piece for changeable conditions. This means you can wear it over a T-shirt in the summer months and still be protected from light rain if the weather changes suddenly. 

Best of all Helios vests are machine washable and dry with barely any creases in just a few hours. Perfect for those walking several times a day.

Rohan Frostpoint Vest (Men's) £110.00

Rohan Durable Frostpoint Vest (Women's) £110.00

We are loving this range of his and hers vests from Rohan. The Frostpoint Vest is warm, comfortable and versatile- it is both a layering piece in cold conditions or a top layer in the autumn and spring, an all round great season to season piece. The ladies version comes in True Navy and the men's in Navy and Red.

Both versions contain 60g of Insuloft™ R-XE wadding in the front and back to offer unrivalled warmth to weight ratio. The soft wadding is ideal for wearing as a mid-layer in colder months or as a top layer over a long sleeve T shirt for added warmth and comfort when things getting a little warmer.

The Frostpoint vest has two internal mesh stash pockets, one which has an elastic synch closure and doubles as a Packpocket- to store your vest in a compact bag whenever you need to. The two zipped hand pockets, perfect for dog walking and lined with Microfleece- perfect for stashing those dog treats and keeping your hands warm. Microfleece also lines the collar and chin guard for maximum comfort and protection from the wind, rain and cold.

The elastane gives the garment additional flexibility, stretch and freedom of movement leaving you free to jump around as much as you like with your favourite canine.

Dare 2b - Women's Reputable II Longline Gilet in Black £90.95

This gilet is practical whilst being bang on trend. This functional fashion piece boasts a durable water repellent finish and high warmth padding. This versatile jacket includes innovative features such as a grown-on hood and a zip and chin guard. There are talso 2 all important pockets. Move from dog walk to local pub or cafe without a second thought. Perfect for layering or even just with a T shirt.

If you love the lightness of a gilet or vest but can't quite bring yourself to trim down your dog walking kit, you might also want to take a look at our article on the Best Bags and Packs for Dog Walking.

See also:

Best Bags and Packs for Dog Walking

Tips for Hiking with your Dog in the Spring

Best Walking Shoes for Dog Walkers

Best Coats for Dog Walkers