Deben Gamekeeper Hunting Jacket

British weather patterns comes the necessity to plan ahead. Little wonder then at the popularity of wax proof clothing and such like, to enable us hardy types to brave the outdoor elements. As a previous owner of the odd Barbour along the way, I can certainly vouch for the quality, yet there’s no doubting that with wax style clothing comes drawbacks too.

Deben’s latest catalogue includes many new wonders, but their Gamekeeper jacket stands out for an innovative approach. It’s made from a special material called ‘Impertane’ that cleverly manages to look like waxed cotton, without actually being so.

What’s the problem with wax? Well as any owner of this style of jacket will know, the material can begin to dry out and crack, unless fed with more wax solution. Heating the wax and applying warm so it soaks-in fully is a laborious task, and the end result can inevitably transfer unwanted residue onto upholstery; be that in the car or at home. New wax coats still occasionally suffer in this regard too, and it’s something to bear in mind.

Impertane is exclusive to Percussion, the manufacturers of Deben’s Gamekeeper jacket. This material is made from a Polycotton fabric which receives a multi-layer water-proof coating on both sides. The result is a jacket which looks remarkably like a wax proof, and is built to both resist a heavy downpour, and be highly durable. In addition, the jacket is soft to the touch, and easy to maintain.

Features

The top and possibly most vulnerable areas of the jacket, are treated to a reinforced coating which is more nonslip, whilst the Gamekeeper’s lining is a smart 100% cotton check, keeping the shooter comfortable at all times.

A full width zip-up game pocket runs along the back seam, and is fully removable not to mention washable. In fact, all the usual features you would expect to fi nd in a wax proof are here too, such as twin deep lined pockets at the front (including 2 integrated rows of cartridge holders), high level hand warmers, pop down storm cuffs, and a hood concealed in the collar. Inside there are two zipped pockets, and a mobile phone holder. Closute is by a full length zip with a stud fastening storm flap.

The test Gamekeeper was sent through as size XXL (54/56 chest) to suit my large frame, and is extremely comfortable, but as a guide, I reckon I could go to the next size up, just to allow for chunkier layers of clothing to be worn underneath, if necessary.

Verdict

My verdict - I’m a big fan of many of the clothing products that Deben have brought to market, and this Gamekeeper Jacket is undoubtedly another winner that deserves to do well. The manufacturers even claim that this jacket can be machine washed. In any event, the Gamekeeper represents an exceptionally smart, ultra functional waterproof outdoor jacket, designed to do the job of a wax proof, with none of the drawbacks; and on that basis, I really can’t fault it!

The Gamekeeper Hunting Jacket is priced at £89.95. For details of stockists, contact Deben Group Industries Ltd. on 01394 387762 or visit the website at www.deben.com