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Browning Windsor Parka And Fleece

Browning Windsor Parka And Fleece

For me one company that stands head and shoulders above the others in clothing is Browning. Their line is massive and suits all terrains and reasons. The classic example is their hunting parka, which they have been offering for many years. Made with all the usual hi-tec materials making it breathable, warm and waterproof etc. it offers masses of storage in a choice of camo patterns and solid colours. I have their Pre-Vent parkas in Mossy Oak break up, a Grande Passage in Duck Blind as well as a loden green example. The design is totally American with a removable hood and masses of storage.

STIFF UPPER LIP!

However, Browning is doubtless aware of the British market and with one eye on a more traditional approach and the other on practicality, they have launched the Windsor parka and fleece. Made of a nylon/polyester mix it’s green in colour with brown trim and is rated water/windproof and breathable, using proven systems such as PRE-VENT that draws moisture away from the skin.

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Compared to my aforementioned parkas the Windsor as the name implies is all terribly British and will doubtless appeal to the more traditional game shooter. Subtlety is the watchword here; the olive green body is nicely counterpointed by brown trim strips on pocket edge etc. Carriage is minimal but generous with two massive, front, bellows pockets with a scooped opening and a large flap secured by a press stud. On the side are fleece- lined and zipped handwarmer slots that can also hold small items, plus features straps that clip onto the lower pocket flap to hold it open, doubtless to assist ammo access. There’s a single interior (left hand) breast pocket and waterproof one under the storm flap, both are zip-closed.

ADDED PROTECTION

A useful feature is the interior REACTOR 2 integral recoil pad pockets that allow the fitting of Browning slip-in recoil pad system into the shoulder and it really works! Closure is by a full-length, double-ended zip and studded storm flap. The collar is a medium/high, stand-up style and there’s no hood nor provision to fit one – like I said this is more a traditional game coat! The cut is generous with side vents on the hem for easier movement, as too are the pleated section at the rear of the shoulders/ arms. Both features offering easy gun mount! The long and wide sleeves show Velcro adjuster tabs on the outside and that is pretty much that.

On its own the parka is warm and comfortable due to its hi-tech construction and materials. However, for those colder days Browning offers the Windsor fleece vest that can be worn alone or zipped in using their X-CHANGE system to up its cold weather ability. It’s a dark green/ brown with light brown trim and zipped side pockets and is stylish and effective, good for warmer days on the peg and socialising too.

FOR: Hi-tech, English- style game coat Well made and effective
AGAINST: This is not a US- style parka
VERDICT: Practical and more traditional design Zip-in fleece gives it the edge in colder weather

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  • Browning Windsor Parka And Fleece - image {image:count}

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