Arras Jackets

Over the years, one of my bug bears has always been the annoying amount of outdoor clothing that claims to be waterproof, and turns out to be anything but! Devious use of wording such as ‘water resistent’, where moisture only has to be held at bay for a limited time span, sees many an over garment fall short of its full remit.

The new Arras Rain Jacket from Baleno, has been designed with the outdoor sportsman and enthusiast in mind, and offers a stylish, contemporary design, which is both lightweight, yet highly effective. 

With around forty years of experience in the manufacture of outdoor/leisure wear, Baleno should know a thing or two about design and manufacture, and this new product combines hi-tech performance with comfortable practicality.

Flexible Flexothane

The Arras Rain jacket is apparently unique, in that it is manufactured in the fabric Flexothane, which is a polyurethane coating applied to a knitted base fabric; itself the result of years of research into textile technology. Flexothane is waterproof and wind proof, and I can certainly vouch for the sheer comfort of the material, which is silky and slightly rubbery to the touch. The knitted base combines with the Flexothane, to aid breathability, and helps to absorb perspiration and avoid that clammy feeling so associated with rain coats in general.

The manufacturers also claim that the material is highly tear resistant, due to its stretchable, supple nature. In addition, the fact that these jackets are designed to be machine washable is a real boon, since outdoor activities are often muddy affairs!

Features and Fittings

The hood is a permanent fixture, neatly stored under the pop-down neck panel, whilst a drawstring neck cord allows for adjustment with the hood in place. A full length zip is fitted, with the addition of a fully studded storm flap, so full water-proofing is assured in the grubbiest of weather conditions. Two large studded pockets and elasticated wrists complete the spec, which whilst simple, is indeed highly effective.

On a field test, the jacket felt wonderfully non-restrictive, with full manoeuvrability afforded, whilst the slinky feel of the highly original Flexothane material gained this rain jacket a big thumbs up. Imagine liquid rubber applied to a soft under layer of material, and you get close to the feel of this Arras.

As for effectiveness, I remained perfectly dry and comfortable throughout some fairly unpleasant conditions. 

So there we are; whatever your outdoor pursuit, be it wildlife watching, hunting, fishing or otherwise, this new jacket could well be the answer.

The Arras rain jacket is priced at £79.99 and is available in M, L and XL, and is a fitting edition to the Baleno range of specialist outdoor gear.

For availability and dealer network, contact John Rothery (Wholesale) Co. Ltd. on tel. 01730 268011 or visit their website at www.bisley-uk.com