Jack Pyke Lightweight Fleece and Countryman Jumper

While Jack Pyke put the finishing touches to the garments offered in their new English Woodland range they realised certain items weren’t being catered for by their brand. This led them to design the new Lightweight Fleece Top and Countryman Jumper.

Now as most hunters know in cold weather it’s better to wear layers than a single, heavy insulated jacket. This being the reason many designs feature zip-out fleeces and the like. However, many prefer to buy their own layers for a number of reasons. With that cleared up I have no qualms in praising a couple of new gems from the Jack Pyke roster - those being the Lightweight Fleece Top and the impressive Countryman Jumper.

Lightweight!

Initially the Lightweight Fleece Top doesn’t seem out of the norm except the quality compared to the price. Made from 100%, checked polyester this long sleeve design is ideal as a mid layer if worn under a suitably insulated jacket. The cut makes it comfortable to wear and it features a lengthy neck zip for regulating body temperature and has a useful elasticated bottom toggle adjustable drawstring. Ok, it’s basic, but just the ticket if the temperature hasn’t dropped too low and for the price a bone fide bargain.

Now to the Countryman Jumper which I personally feel is a must have item, not only because it’s got a trick up its sleeve… This isn’t any old ‘woolly pully’ as it’s fully reversible with a full length anti-rust zip and Breatha-tex waterproof membrane. The build of one side is constructed of green, knitted 30% wool and 70% acrylic mix, which is windproof, waterproof and breathable. When worn as standard you also have stylish straight ribbed stretch fit cuffs. Also there are brown suede style shoulders and elbow pads, on the outer when worn like this you also two zipped hand warmer pockets with imitation suede trim and two internal zip fastened pockets.

Reverse!

Should you not want to look so ‘military’ if say going out ‘knocking for permission’ or if having to move around near the public, it easily transforms into a stylish, full-length zip fleece by simply turning it inside out. You now have a brownish/green non pill fleece outer with contrasting straight ribbed green cuffs, collar and lower section. Again you have two zip close pockets on the outer with a lighter brown trim and two zip close pockets on the inside.

PRICES - £17.95 and £65 respectively
FOR - Gods stand-alone of integrated garments
AGAINST - Not a lot
VERDICT - Once again JP hit the spot with well made, efficient and well-priced garments