Seeland Eton Jacket & Trousers

Seeland’s Eton Classic jacket and trousers are made from an intermediate weight dark green Polyester fabric and have a texture close to a fine brushed fleece to assure quiet movement. Polyester lined, the secret to waterproofing, breathability and wind resistance is a “Seetex” membrane and all will happily withstand a conventional 40 degree machine wash on a suit designed for the warmer months.

Up Top

The jacket is a fairly slim cut with functional pockets that weren’t too bulky. Fleece lined handwarmer pockets aside the chest contain tethers to hold the lower waist pockets open for quick cartridge access when shooting. The left side shows internal and external zippered valuable/radio pockets and a lower right side internal mesh pocket contains a bright orange lightweight tabard for continental style visibility.

A full width game pocket across the back is also useful for storing carefully folded extra layers of clothing if weather conditions are changeable. Metal poppers and YKK zippers fasten all external pockets and a broad band covers the full height of the zip up to the chin. There isn’t a hood but the collar is unobtrusive to the shotgun mount and tall enough to keep draughts out. Velcro cuffs at the wrists prevent the sleeves riding up when reaching up. The waist can be cinched in using the internal elastic cord and the larger pockets have drain holes in case you are caught out in a real downpour.

Two Tone

The trousers are of similar construction but have a two tone appearance. The articulated knees change to a slightly darker colour with heavier texture which gives a tougher yet refined appearance that stays `in character`. The ankles carry Velcro cuffs to accommodate a generous sized boot or tightened in without a hint of riding up inside wellies. There are deep hand pockets at the front with two on the hip at the rear with zip closures. Both thighs have `cargo` pockets, closed with poppers and everything can be anchored in place with the 2” belt loops or included front/rear buttons for braces.

Worn In Or Out

I found these clothes very comfortable to wear throughout September’s wet but mild weather. Breathability was pretty good and they didn’t get clammy but I would have preferred underarm zippers to increase ventilation. The trousers wore well with very little noise and washed easily where they picked up mud at the hem. Being dark green, the visual style was modest yet smart and didn’t stand out if worn casually. Movement and flexibility are relaxed enough for dynamic clay or game shooting. The Eton Classic suits my requirements for a summer or autumn weight suit very well. Bear in mind sizing was on the smallish side if you intend to add layers underneath.