Sportschief All-year, 3-Way Coat and Aquatex Trousers

The Sportschief brand of outdoor wear seems to have been with us for aeons. However, though always good quality, both Jacket and Trousers have changed style slightly, the top now being termed an ‘All-year, 3-Way coat.’ This is due to its zip-out fleece that can be worn on its own, or removed in warmer weather. However, that’s just one of the features that’s changed, and even this I feel makes the jacket more appealing.

Dura What?

Both garments are manufactured from Durasupple, a high strength water resistant fabric. The length of time I had my original ‘combo’ bears testament to that. The Aquatex membrane is used to ensure the garments are totally water/wind-proof and breathable. 

The zip-out fleece is handy as a stand-a-lone garment due to its Hardwoods Green camo, which matches the jacket. There are two side zip pockets and a high collar and elasticated cuffs. The jacket has action-cut arms, which offers easy movement, even if you’ve put too many mid layer garments under it, which this winter I didn’t feel the need to do.

The Jacket fastens with a heavy-duty, two-way zip with press studs fastening down storm flap. The hood is detachable, generously sized and has a well formed protective peak, that are useful but often omitted on other brands. It adjusts by a three-way, elasticated cord toggle fastener/adjuster and is easily removed when not required. All zipped up and cinched down there’s a lot of protection.

External stowage consists of two large, press stud/flap pockets with roomy hand warmer slots pockets to the sides. Above on the upper chest are two, zip-fastening pockets with flaps. Very discreet and handy! The same applies to the inside 9” zippered wallet or FAC pocket. Even more by way of tailoring and comfort is the inclusion of an inner drawcord, a poppered rear ‘drop down’ flap for sitting and the wrists have strong Velcro adjustable straps.

Strides

The Trousers are similarly manufactured but with an Airmax Thermo lining. A pull-over design they have an elasticated waist, wide nylon belt loops and buttons for braces. Two zip-fastened, standby pockets with flaps are set on the sides and most pleasingly there’s a zip fly, meaning it’s a lot easier to have a pee when you need too. The ankles can be cinched around your boots via three press studs.

The Sportschief Jacket and Trousers are one of the better brands of outdoor clothing that seems to be getting better with age and integrating new features hunters will benefit from.

•Name: Sportschief All-year 3 Way Coat and Sportschief Aquatex Trousers
•Prices: £189.95 and £89.95 respectively. Available in Hardwoods Green and apg
•Sizes M-XXL
•Contact: Garlands Ltd 01827 383300 www.garlands.uk.com
•For: Versatile outdoor clothing

•Against: Not a lot

•Verdict: Sportchief quality and build remains as good as ever

Pic Caps

1: The Sportschief Jacket and Trousers are one of the better brands of outdoor clothing that seems to be getting better with age and integrating new features hunters will benefit from

2: The zip out fleece is handy as a stand-a-lone garment due to the camo pattern and the fact there are two, side-zip pockets, high collar and elasticated cuffs