Toll Free: (800) 849-1004
Sep 03
Friday
Nov/Dec 09 Clothing Review PDF Print E-mail
AddThis Social Bookmark Button

From cold-weather coats to upland shooting gear, look your best and stay comfortable all day with these offerings from some of the best sporting apparel companies on the market. —

Bass Pro Shops

New from Bass Pro’s RedHead line are the Tech3 Parka and Convertible Bibs. With the innovative design of the Tech3 system, hunters get three different liner jackets and only need the one system for all outdoor pursuits, no matter the season.

 

The Tech3 Parka is made with 100-percent waterproof, breathable suede that’s designed with stretch panes to allow for extreme mobility and range of motion. The parka has a hide-away chest zipper, mesh accessory pocket, front-zip storm flap with magnetic closures and a soft fleece chin guard over the zipper.

 

The Tech3 bibs 100-percent waterproof and can be transformed from bibs to pants by removing the mesh suspenders. The bibs have two zippered slash pockets, side-leg zips for easy on/off and a zip fly. (www.basspro.com)

 

Beretta

Beretta has introduced several new products to compliment their upland clothing line. The Front Loading Shirt is made of lightweight cotton-poplin with Cordura overlays in brown or blaze orange on the recoil patch, back and forearms. It has a nylon-lined, front-loading pocket that zips down behind for easy cleaning, roll tab sleeves and a vented back.

 

The Northeastern Sweater has a wool shell with a wind-barrier lining behind. It’s a great fall piece to wear alone and a warm addition when layering for winter weather. The sweater has fleece lining on the inside collar for comfort and cotton-twill shooting patches with ribbed knit cuffs at the hem and sleeves.

 

Also new is the Upland Cordura Vest and Lightweight Upland Pant. Available in a tan/blaze orange combination, the vest features a front-loading, easy-to-clean, no-seam game bag and large lower shell pockets with magnetized flap for easy in/out. The back license loop and internal security pockets on the mesh-lined inside complete this traditional piece of upland gear.

 

The Lightweight Upland Pant is a cotton-poplin base with cordura overlays. The rubberized inside waistband helps keep your shirt tucked in and has articulated knees for ease of movement. (www.berettausa.com)

 

Boyt Harness

The new Merino Wool/Cotton Blend Hunting Shirt from Boyt Harness combines the best of both fabrics: the breathability of cotton with the moisture-absorbency of wool. The company has developed their own proprietary blend of 80 percent cotton and 20 percent Merino wool fibers for their Big Sky hunting shirts.

 

Trimmed with ultra-suede shooting patches, matching elbow patches, button-down collar and two-button cuffs, the shirts are made in a new state-of-the-art factory designed by Boyt exclusively for their shirt production. The cotton makes the wool lightweight and comfortable, while the wool keeps it soft and durable. (www.boytharness.com)

 

Browning

New in Browning’s Transitions Waterfowl line are the Maxus Gore-Tex Jacket and Wing-Set Jacket that give waterfowlers the most up-to-date technologies available in fabrics and construction to keep them warm, dry and comfortable.

 

Combining Gore-Tex fabrics and Gore Comfort Mapping technology, the Maxus Jacket greatly improves comfort by strategically placing different fabrics in specific locations to maximize mobility and protection from the elements.

 

The Wing-Set Jacket features soft-shell construction and weighs only 26 ounces. The three-layer fabric blends a rugged nylon outer shell; waterproof, windproof and breathable Pre-Vent lamination; and a warm inner layer of fleece provide warmth and protection over a broad temperature range. The Freedom sleeve construction and articulated elbows allow unrestricted movement to swing and follow through on each shot. Available in Mossy Oak Duck Blind camouflage. (www.browning.com)

 

Cabela’s

Cabela’s Mid-Layer Fleece is the ultimate layering tool to regulate your core body temperature. The 450-gram, 100-percent, polyester-fleece interior is ultra-soft and has high loft – ideal for retaining essential body heat once you reach your destination.

 

The durable, abrasion-resistant fabric wards off burrs, twigs and wind and the tapered sleeves and paneled construction allow for unrestricted movement. The Hoodie model has kangaroo pockets to keep hands warm, and the reverse-coil zipper has a silent, snap-down zipper pull, while the Pullover model features a mock-neck 1/2-zip design for venting. Available in Outfitter and Seclusion 3D camouflage. (www.cabelas.com)

 

Connecticut Shotgun

Connecticut Shotgun has a new shooting vest to add to their already impressive collection of gunning supplies. With a lightweight, durable and specifically developed reinforced shell, the Gamekeeper vest is a must-have for any shotgunner.

 

The Gamekeeper contains full-length leather shoulder patches, leather piping on the pockets, reinforced, expandable shell pockets and heavy-duty, hook-and-loop Velcro pocket fasteners. The vest also has Connecticut Shotgun’s removable KikSoft recoil pad. It also features waist-tensioning adjustment straps for a more tailored fit. (www.connecticutshotgun.com)

 

 

 

David Morgan

David Morgan has reintroduced Akubra's Slouch Hat to the public this year. Members of the Australian Military Forces have been field-testing the Slouch Hat as made by Akubra since before World War I. To this day Akubra supplies these hats to the Australian defense department. This year, Akubra reintroduced the Souch Hat for the public.

 

Great for rain or shine, the hat is made from Akubra’s well-stiffened Super Fine rabbit fur felt. Trimmings include a roan leather sweatband, folded cloth pugaree, brim clip and chinstrap. (www.davidmorgan.com)

 

Holland & Holland

Holland & Holland, the world-renowned gunmaker introduced their new Loden Sporting Waistcoat. The new shooting vest is made from the finest wool with double-leather-padded shoulders and horn H&H logo buttons, while the inner lining is woven viscose twill.

 

This exquisitely constructed waistcoat will be offered in a variety of men's sizes from small to XL for the right- or left-hand shooter. For ordering information call the New York office at (212) 752 – 7755.

 

 

 

 

 

L.L. Bean

The patented design of L.L. Bean’s new Helix Waterfowl Waders uses one continuous seam to wrap each leg in a spiral pattern and eliminate the number of seams needed by more than 50 percent, creating a stronger construction and greatly reducing the possibility of leaks.

 

Bean uses a rugged, breathable, four-layer fabric that allows heat-trapping layers to be worn underneath while perspiration escapes. The Helix Waders also feature a flexible shoulder harness, low-profile buckles and a large chest pocket. The comfortable camo-patterned boots are heavily insulated with 1,200-gram Thinsulate Insulation polyester and the deep cleats on the soles provide excellent traction. Available in Mossy Oak Duck Blind Camo. (www.llbean.com)

 

 

 

 

Patagonia

New from Patagonia is the Men’s Shotover Down Jacket. The jacket has the components of an alpine shell – sealed seams and a waterproof/breathable barrier – with an added layer of 600-fill premium down and is styled to prevail against the demands of the urban environment.

 

The coat’s shell is made from two layers of 6-ounce polyester with a Deluge DWR (durable water repellent) finish for water and snow protection. The diamond-quilt baffling minimizes bulk and a zippered interior pocket keeps valuables secure.

 

Cozy, weather-sealing features include a draw-cord waist, micro-fleece-lined collar and chin flap, Polartec Power Dry lined cuffs and a below-the-waist length. The jacket also has two hand-warmer, two gusseted and vertical zip pockets. The insulated hood zips off when skies clear. (www.patagonia.com)

 

Pella

Bird ’n Lite upland clothing by Pella introduces the improved Pro Strap Vest. The Pro series vest includes extra storage in the game bag to hold up to 15 roosters, easier game-loading from the front, side or rear, more safety orange and wider quilted shoulder straps for more comfortable gun mounting on either shoulder.

 

Built for early season, warm-weather hunting, the lightweight vest lifts, balances and supports your load. Two double-compartment front cargo pockets feature large flaps with hook-and-loop closures, shell loops and fleece-lined, side-entry hand-warmer pockets. The easy-loading, spacious game bag is lined with a blood-proof barrier and includes two water bottle pockets with shock cords, a built-in rucksack and back straps to carry extra clothing. (www.birdnlite.com)

 

 

Prois

Constructed with a 100-percent polyester, waterproof, breathable fabric, the new Prois Xtreme Jacket is soft, silent and ideal for facing any frigid conditions in the filed. This incredibly warm jacket is lined with 3M Thinsulate and 100-percent nylon tricot. Built-in thumbholes provide easy movement, while deep chest and hand pockets are perfect for rangefinders and vital equipment. The jacket also has an adjustable drawstring to trap body heat in and keep cold air out. A new Prois Ducktail feature keeps your backside warm and dry when sitting.

 

An innovative safety harness lead is located at the base of the neck, allowing hunters to easily strap on and off a safety harness. When the harness is not in use, a unique flap covers the lead with a quiet magnetic closure. Available in Realtree AP HD and Advantage Max-1 HD. (www.proishunting.com)

 

Purdey

To add to their glorious line of shotguns, Purdey has introduced several new classic clothing pieces for fall.

 

The new line features Audley tweed, woven in Scotland. The tweed is a subtle moss green with a red windowpane overcheck and is available in two weights: a lighter, all-purpose version and a heavier, thorn-proof version. Together, they form the focal point of Purdey’s practical range of tailoring for men and women.

 

Other pieces in this year’s line include waterproof outwear and footwear, with traditional, functional fabrics and reflecting Purdey’s long-standing reputation for excellent craftsmanship and style. Also featured are key items from Purdey’s bespoke line, which include shirts, boots, the new hand-carved traveling walking stick and even china based on their “shooting break” delftware. (www.purdey.com)

 

SHE Outdoor Apparel

SHE Outdoor Apparel raised the bar in women’s cold-weather apparel this year with the introduction of the C4 System. Unlike any product on the market, the C4 System consists of jacket, pants, vest and accessories specially tailored for the female hunter.

 

The design team incorporated body-mapping technology with ARC ArcticShield and 3M Thinsulate to develop a lighter, more precise, insulated layering system. The high-quality construction keeps you dry in extreme weather, withstands arctic conditions and outperforms the competition. The entire system’s 440 Gram Fleece Shell is completely waterproof, including flat-felled seams for maximum durability and waterproof zippers.

 

SHE’s patent-pending zipper attachment system joins the vest and pants to create stylish, form-fitting bibs that retain heat and keep moisture out. The unique design keeps the zipper out of sight – yet easily accessible – allowing easy on/off in the field. Every female hunter will recognize and appreciate the advantages of this feature. Available in Realtree AP HD. (www.shesafari.com)

 

Sitka

Sitka’s new partnership with W. L Gore & Associates brought time-tested Gore fabrics to the Sitka line and introduced hunters to the first-ever concealment pattern based on recent scientific findings about animal vision.

 

The new Jetstream line, which includes a jacket, vest, two hats and gloves, is constructed with Gore’s Windstopperis a no-brainer for cool-wind protection. The soft-shell fabric allows a smooth finish and helps to ward off light drizzle and snow flurries. A guide’s best friend, this jacket is a treat for glassing sheep on a wind-blown ridge or stalking into a north wind. An added feature is the Gore Optifade concealment, so you will be warm, comfortable and virtually invisible to your prey. (www.sitkagear.com)

 

 

 

Texas Hunt Co.

The 3-Pocket Shell and Game Bag from Texas Hunt Co. offers the ease of use of a shell pouch with the comfort of a vest.

 

The three pockets will carry a full day’s supply of ammo, a legal limit of doves, quail or pheasants, plus provide a spot to stash your empties. It’s two shell pockets feature “lok-closed” and “lok-open” design. When the pouch is “lok-closed,” your ammo doesn’t get strewn around your vehicle, while “lok-open” allows for fast access to ammo in the field.

 

All three pockets are made from 1,000 Denier Cordura fabric and the toughest materials available, stitched and sewn in Texas Hunt Co.’s legendary manufacturing tradition. And because the pockets are Cordura, when they get soiled, just toss them into the wash along with your field pants. Even the belt buckle is an improvement over previous models, made from never-mar polymer so you won’t have to worry about scratching your favorite bird gun. (www.texashuntco.com)

 

 

 

 

 

Under Armour

No other brand understands next-to-the-skin garments like Under Armour. Keeping performance expectations at the forefront, Under Armour has revolutionized the athlete’s base layer. The new Evolution ColdGear combines construction enhancements with Under Armour’s most advanced fabrics.

 

The ColdGear double knit fabric transports moisture to keep you warm and dry. An advanced slick exterior reduces friction and improves mobility when layering and the interior is softer for an unrivaled comfort. Shifted seam placement in our muscle-boosting compression fit delivers a streamlined feel.

 

ArmourBlock antimicrobial finish completes the most technically advanced base layer on the market. Available in Mossy Oak New Breakup, Mossy Oak Treestand and Realtree AP. (www.underarmour.com)

 

Westley Richards

New to the Westley Richards clothing line is the Icebreaker series of base layers made from 100 percent pure merino wool. The new Icebreaker line is odor-free, completely breathable and silky smooth.

 

The Icebreaker base layers come in several models for any outdoor adventure, from hiking to hunting. The Bodyfit 200 line is perfect for everyday use, while the Bodyfit 260 mid-weight is made for cool to cold conditions. The Nature series from Icebreaker is specifically designed with women in mind and can be worn separately or in combination with other Icebreaker items to form the perfect fit. (www.westleyrichards.com)

 

 

Footwear

Danner

The Danner Vanish GTX Series boots with Gore-Tex Scent-Lok lining are a sleek, fast and lightweight offering built to conquer any environment. The waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex Scent-Lok technology provides the added benefit of scent-blocking protection. Danner’s EXO Lite platform features a high-traction, rubber compound outsole to ensure a good grip when on the go. (www.danner.com)

 

 

 

Dubarry

The Wicklow from Dubarry is a Gore-Tex-lined ankle boot made from our DryFast-DrySoft Leather. It’s available in Walnut, Black or Mahogany.

 

Keeping in line with Dubarry’s well-built footwear, the Wicklow has direct-injection molded soles, which means no gluing or stiching that forms a stronger seal on the welt. The boot is perfect for camp or for everyday use. (www.dubarry.com)

 

 

Le Chameu

For more than 80 years Le Chameau has been making high-quality rubber boots. New for 2009 is the Vierzon Air Confort which features Le Chameau's proprietary Air Confort 3-D Fabric, a technically advanced 3-D lining that generates airflow in and out of the boot to remove moisture. The system ensures hours of dryness and air-cushioned comfort. The Air Confort system is comprised of a comfortable 3-D bamboo lining that fully encloses the foot. The ventilated top allows air to freely enter and exit the lining.

 

Along with the new Air Confort system, the boots are made with a high-density rubber sole to serve as a shock absorber for those long treks. Like all boots from Le Chameau, the Vierzons are made from 100 percent natural rubber. (www.lechameauusa.com)

 

 

 

 

Russell Moccasin

With three new footwear offerings, Russell Moccasin has had a busy year. First in their new fall line is the Joof Boot, a tall, leather model fitted with a flat sole. It features a two-tone, reddish-brown WeatherTuff leather with a green toe piece. It also comes with a Poron, high-density foam insert between layers of leather and Newporter sole.

 

Second in the new line is the Thornbush PH. Crafted without the outside molded sole, but with two layers of leather wrapped completely around the foot, the boot is perfect for covering lots of rocky, thorny territory. The Thornbush PH is made with green waterproof, WeatherTuff leather and features a Poron slipsole with a foam layer for improved walking comfort. Back pull-straps allow for quick lacing and the Vibram Air Bob sole remains quiet while giving added traction.

 

Finally, Russell Moccasin designed a shoe with the traveling hunter in mind. The 1745 Oneida Moccasins are perfect for slipping your shoes on and off at TSA checkpoints. The non-restrictive design means no bending over and no lacing up required when you’re in a hurry to catch your plane. The shoe is crafted with two-tone waterproof WeatherTuff leather and can be custom-made with numerous options. (www.russellmoccasin.com)