The layer that goes on last when it is cold but not actually raining. Padded and quilted jackets, shooting jackets, bonded fleeces, wool bush shirts and waistcoats from Deerhunter, Seeland, Hoggs of Fife, SwedTeam and Swanndri.
Where this layer sits
A hard waterproof shell keeps water out and, on a still cold day, does very little else. A performance outer does the opposite job: it traps warmth and blocks wind, and it is far more comfortable to shoot in. Most people in the UK field end up carrying both — an insulated outer for the peg, the highseat or the beating line, and a shell in the bag for when it turns.
- Quilted and padded jackets — warmth for standing still. Right for a driven day, a flight pond or a sit in a seat; too warm for walking in.
- Shooting jackets — cut for mounting a gun, with the shoulder and sleeve room that a walking jacket does not have.
- Bonded fleeces — a bonded or membrane-backed fleece blocks wind in a way a plain fleece does not, which is most of what you feel on an exposed hill.
- Wool bush shirts — heavy wool is quiet, works wet, and does not melt at a fire. It is also heavy, which is the trade.
- Waistcoats — core warmth without bulk on the arms. The sensible answer for stalking in marginal weather.
Related
- All outers & midlayers — the full department
- Waterproof jackets for hard shells
- Fleeces and vests & waistcoats
- Shooting smocks
