I *legitimately expected* to be underwhelmed and disappointed by this vest. And uncomfortable, and irritated that it didn't work like I had hoped. But I took a chance because I *really* wanted this to work for me. And it totally does. This will probably be a long review, but I intend to be thorough, and address sizing notes and other helpful points.

Context: I've done a TON of research on toolbelts lately to replace my aging, generic, big-box store belt. I've looked at almost everything I can find domestic USA, as well as Canada and Japan, and a ton of options from Oceania. I am a picky 40-year-old cabinetry designer desk jockey most days, but I do get called out to work various finish carpentry, cabinetry, and install jobs from time to time, in addition to home uses.

I'm 5'11", 145lbs, 30" waist, with a fairly average torso length, 36" chest, wearing an XS/S size. Over a single layer top,the adjustment straps are fully cinched tight to provide a snug fit. With the shoulder straps adjusted as in the photo, the vest rides comfortably above my pants waist, so I can bend over or crouch unrestricted, which is a huge win. The "belt" line of the vest hits just above my belly button, which does introduce some complexity selecting appropriate pouches to pair with the vest; see below.

Absolutely expected to get infuriated at the placement of webbing attachment points, expecting them to be awkward and poorly placed. I'm genuinely impressed at their spacing, utility, and flexibility. I've moved things around quite a bit to get it dialed in, but the current layout (which does change, to be clear, based on different tasks) is still very similar to what I started with, which lets me know setup is pretty intuitive. Two constants have been the 717 on the top left chest, which is brilliant for marking tools, and the 715 top right chest, which has been brilliant for a variety of tools in the tool slot, along with a small handful of fasteners, and perhaps one bit when I'm switching between two on my impact driver. The Utility sheath is fairly flexible too, and works well on the 2nd tier down toward the outside closer to my elbows, and since it stays tight to the body, it doesn't restrict my motion. The Gun loop has a home on the lowest tier (peep it in the photo behind and below the utility knife). Finally, the webbing section along the lower back has been a very intuitive and easy place to hook an impact driver. I definitely recommend the lumbar support back there. And, hey Diamondback, why on earth have you not done some hook-backed magnetic panels for those upper chest loop velcro panels?! Come on. That's an obvious opportunity.

Some helpful measurements (based on S/XS vest, with adjusters fully "taken in"):
- Webbing is 2" throughout, and 1" webbing for side adjusters.
- 3 primary chest panels: 2.5"W
- Lowest tier front: 1.25"W (inner), 1.25-1.5"W (outer)
- Side of belt in pouch attachment area (at smallest waist adjustment): 4"W minimum. 5.5" if skipping front optional loop. 7" if also skipping rear optional loop. [If you're larger than I am, these numbers will grow accordingly]
- Rear spacing of belt between adjuster buckles: ~4" useable. (~5" if attaching a pouch that can loop over the buckles.

Pain points:
- I feel some rubbing on my shoulder blades, which is noticeable after a short amount of wear, and a mild irritant by the end of a day. This is with a single summer layer. Not bad, overall, and can probably be remedied with clothing or slight modification.
- It's not quick to install "tunnel loop"—style pouches to the side belts. So it's modular, just not *instantly* modular for pouches.
- Pay attention to this, since the belt will be riding potentially higher than a typical toolbelt, many available pouches (designed for toolbelt use) will be very awkward to access in use, and will interfere with your elbows. Whatever you choose to pair with the vest, I recommend selecting something that hangs low. Most of the pouches I like best are not a good match for vest use. The Mini Niko looks like a good match, and I'll be adding that soon.

Comfort: I find this more comfortable than a toolbelt, even when carrying a full compliment of tools. I'm pleased to find out that it doesn't wear my shoulders out, nor does it restrict my shoulder motion for reaching overhead. I don't find Southern heat any more uncomfortable in this than wearing a toolbelt.

Conclusion: I've been able to find a home for 90% of my core carpentry/cabinetry tools on my 701, and have drastically downgraded my capacity requirements for tool/fastener pouches. This makes me faster on my feet, and slimmer in confined spaces and finished environments.

It's $$$ money, and I can't judge the value proposition for you, but I say having a dialed in setup is pretty priceless. I genuinely look forward to putting it on and going to work, and that's something I definitely can't say about basically any toolbelt. I recommend it.

I have been wearing the Denali belt for years and have looked to change to the 701 for a while now, mostly due to the need to lower the load on my waist as suspenders keep needing adjustment and getting the height of my tool bags right has been troublesome.
Wishing I changed earlier as vest is a game changer for my bag organization and feels much lighter to wear, we're getting older and smart products like this can keep me in the game for longer. High quality gear, will keep coming back.

best!!