Torrent Jacket & Trousers

My first experience of clothing from Ridgeline of New Zealand was light cotton wear and the heavier, fleece-based Hunter Pack in the company’s own Hide & Seek Buffalo Camo. Now, I get the chance to check out clothing specifically manufactured for the weather we are most used to in the UK - RAIN!

There can’t be a hunter in the UK who doesn’t appreciate the need for waterproof clothing, it’s just the way it is, but buying right is made much harder now due to the fact the market is saturated with clothing claiming all manner of hi-tech benefits. So to name a product Torrent you’ve got to be pretty sure it’s going to live up to its title and I’m glad to report it does.

Quiet-Tex

Both garments are manufactured from the company’s own, unique, seam-sealed Quiet-Tex. This is a laminated Polyester shell which is 100% waterproof, windproof and incredibly abrasion resistant not to mention as the name implies – quiet in use. The outer is soft to the touch and surprisingly lightweight in build so the emphasis is very much on keeping you dry rather than overly warm. Whilst the jacket offers more in padding the inner of both have mesh linings, so it’s very much up to the individual to decide what to wear underneath for extra layers to suit the temperature.

The jacket isn’t the usual ¾ length design but does extend low enough below the waist to offer more protection at this area. I mention this as some clothing can be overly long and therefore restrict movement which is definitely not the case with the generous yet sensible length cut here.

The jacket boasts two, deep, double press stud fasten cargo pockets with two, lined, hand-warmer slots behind. On the inside you have two large zip close pockets with an extra open mesh Velcro tab fasten pocket on the inside left of the garment. The high, stand-up, padded storm collar features a generously sized, wired detachable hood with 3-way draw cord toggle adjuster.

Pockets Galore

Closure is by a heavy-duty, two-way rustproof zip and press stud over flap. The cuffs are part elasticated and feature a Velcro strap fastener for cinching tight around the wrists. Another useful pocket is found on the inside of the stormflap. The opening is zippered and being vertical makes it ideal for storing your FAC or car keys. It also has underarm waterproof zip vents for temperature regulation.

The Torrent Pants are of an overtrouser design with an elasticated waist and drawcord toggle fastener and belt loops. The sides of the legs have ¾-length zip and Velcro openings so they can quickly and easily be put on over boots. Once fastened, at the bottom you have a 3- position press stud fastener for cinching tight around the ankles.
The quality of the Torrent Jacket and Pants is very good and the camo pattern is a useful one. If it’s well featured wet weather gear you’re looking for then these two garments should be high on your list.

PRICE:
£114.99 and £59.99 respectively in Hide & Seek Buffalo Camo.
£109.99 and £56.99 respectively in Green