Highland Jacket and Trousers

For those of us that consider ourselves hardcore shooting enthusiasts, the selection of proper gear in which to face the outdoor elements, is indeed a serious business. Yes, there’s a plethora of options available, but when the going gets tough, products made down to a price, will invariably be found wanting. Take to the woods, or indeed the fishing lake for that matter, in lightweight, cheaply made kit, and you’ll soon be heading home earlier than intended- with the expedition curtailed, all because of a serious lack of planning.

Shooter King is a high-quality brand distributed by Thomas Jacks, and they produce a wide selection of outdoor clothing, in a variety of specifications and styles, for both ladies and gents. In the spotlight here, is the Highland Jacket and Highland Trousers, both supplied in sizes that go right up to 5XL in men’s – so we’re all catered for.

Shooter King Highland Jacket

Pick up the Highland Jacket, and the weight is a giveaway as to the quality. Whilst it doesn’t have to follow that heavy means premium, in the case of this jacket, the level of detail and quality finish, are pretty obvious. Technical specifications first, and there’s plenty to shout about. The Highland Jacket is 100% waterproof, which is of course par for the course for a quality outdoor coat. But handle the soft outer layer, and the comfortable, cosseting feel is what belies the rain beating qualities on offer. The Highland is also windproof and breathable, since its constructed from highly durable and weather resistant materials, such as Super Canvas and Cordura Nylon. Super Canvas is a tightly spun material repellent to water, whilst the Cordura Nylon keeps this Shooter King product resistant to tears, scuffs and abrasions. Shootex Membrane lies beneath too, and this again helps to prevent water ingress, whilst keeping the wearer warm and comfortable.

Multiple pockets are always a welcome feature in a jacket like this, and the Highland is an excellent piece of design that doesn’t disappoint. For a start, there’re two large internal pockets which zip up for safe storage. There’s two front outer cargo style pockets, with ammunition loops and pocket fasteners, two high small pockets with water-poof coated zips, two hand warmer pockets that also zip down. In addition, the design sees a large rear pocket, which with zip open access each side, can also act as ventilation point- still covered, but where air can be allowed through the thick outer shell. Twin side zip slits are also fitted, just to allow for more flexibility if necessary, when sitting for example. But the adjustable nature of the Highland doesn’t end there, as there are pull cords and Velcro straps throughout, to slacken or gather in the waist and hem.

Half-hearted hoods are an irritation at best, and next to useless at worst, but no such problem here, as the Highland features a heavy-duty one, again adjustable, and also removable via a zip. The sleeves feature inner elasticated cuffs with finger pull on slits and adjustable pop down buttons, whilst at the front, a quality YKK zip and storm flap combine to complete the thorough spec.

Carry the Highland Jacket, and it seems quite weighty, yet wear it, and it just feels totally reassuring. Supremely cosy, courtesy of that sumptuous lining, and highly efficient given the features and detail on offer.

 

Shooter King Highland Trousers

The Highland Trousers are constructed from identical material which means the Shootex Membrane sets up the first line of defence, along with the durable Cordura Nylon and Super Canvas. Super strong material then, windproof, 100% waterproof – weather resistant, yet breathable. Cleverly, there’s silicon around the elasticated waist and ankles, to prevent slipping, and there are preshaped knee sections to allow for the necessary flexibility in position. Other features include a high-backed waist, wide belt loops, a D-ring on the waist for dog leads etc. a knife pocket on the right leg, two rear zip-up pockets, two deep hip pockets with weatherproof coated zips, two cargo pockets, and pleated fronts on each leg.

Again, don these trousers, and the level of comfort and detail can’t fail to impress. Maneuverability comes with those large zip-up expander sections. Just open them, to make getting the trousers on and off really easy, or vary the opening for extra flexibility. It’s all very neat, and combined with the jacket, this is one hell of a pairing- top quality, super comfortable gear from Shooter King, that will really take some beating.