Arc'teryx Vestigio Beanie
The Arc'teryx Vestigio Beanie (Model #7299) weighs 85 grams (3 oz) and uses MAPP Merino Wool construction with 95% wool and 5% spandex. This discontinued beanie features six-dart construction, an embroidered logo, and vertical knitted details at the rim. One-size-fits-all design. Retail price $45.
Arc'teryx's F15 product page described the Vestigio as "a lightweight stretch beanie made with warm and non-itching Merino Wool/Spandex blend fabric" featuring "vertical edge detailing with six dart construction for comfort." They categorized it under Ski/Snowboard and Backcountry Skiing activities. The Vestigio was the only F15 beanie using MAPP Merino Wool with spandex stretch. Every other wool beanie in the F15 lineup used wool/acrylic blends, making the Vestigio's 95/5 merino-spandex composition unique. At 85g, it sits between the Nordiq Hat at 75g and the Scando Toque at 100g.
Fit and Sizing
The Vestigio fits snugly on small to medium heads and runs tight on larger heads. At just over 6 feet and 165 pounds, I found the one-size design adequate but noticeable against the skull. The six-dart construction shapes the beanie to follow head contours naturally, eliminating the slouchy excess fabric common in looser designs.
The 5% spandex content provides stretch that accommodates different head sizes within the 54-58cm circumference range. Reviewers with larger heads report discomfort from the one-size design. The snug fit keeps the beanie in place during active use without slipping, and the vertical knitted details add structure that prevents rolling. The stretch varies between colorways too. The blue one stretched out over years of use, while the cream one started tight and still fits like a skullcap.
Warmth Range: 25 to 50 Degrees
The Vestigio handles temperatures between 25 and 50 degrees effectively. I wear this in 30-degree weather for casual outings and find the single-layer merino construction provides adequate warmth without overheating. The merino wool content traps warm air while allowing moisture to escape, maintaining comfortable temperature regulation.
However, this is not a beanie for extreme cold or stationary activities. Multiple reviewers confirm that the thin construction becomes insufficient below 25 degrees, particularly during low-output activities. For comparison, the Rho Toque uses microfleece construction for a similar weight with better wind resistance. The merino wool's natural breathability extends usability into the 50-55 degree range during fall and spring.
Skiing and Backcountry Performance
Arc'teryx categorized the Vestigio for Ski/Snowboard and Backcountry Skiing, and the merino-spandex construction makes sense for high-output winter sports. The breathable merino prevents overheating during sustained effort while providing warmth during breaks. The snug fit works well under a helmet. I also use this for running errands in 30-40 degree weather, where the clean design with an embroidered logo looks appropriate with casual winter clothing.
The odor-resistant properties of merino wool make the Vestigio practical for multi-day trips where washing isn't possible. The Rho Lightweight Wool Toque at 30g offers a lighter alternative if the Vestigio runs too warm for touring.
All Vestigio Colorways
The Fall 2015 season included five colorways: Admiral, Anaconda, Chandra Purple, Tangelo, and White. Additional colorways from other seasons included Black, Centaur, Pompeii, Lunar Mist, Fjord, Nautic Gray, Redwood, Heron, Triton, Caribou, Crimson, Crocus, and Black 2.
Care and Washing
Arc'teryx's F15 care instructions require hand washing only with no dry cleaning. Hang to dry and avoid top-loading washing machines or ironing.
Resale Availability
Since Arc'teryx discontinued the Vestigio, resale prices range from $25 to $60 depending on color and condition. Search eBay, Poshmark, and Depop for available stock. The Salomon Outline Beanie offers a similar lightweight merino option if you can't find a Vestigio.
