Jack Pyke Weardale Field Jacket

Jack Pyke’s Weardale clothing range is now a very established and popular line amongst the company’s comprehensive outdoor clothing roster, with new garments added with increasing regularity. One such was the Weardale Fleece Jacket, which is suitable as an underlayer in cold weather or as an outer layer when it is warmer. It’s a stylish, practical fleece that can be worn casually when out and about or in the field. But I digress, as the latest garment to join the range is The Jack Pyke Weardale Field Jacket.

Build

Largely manufactured from 100% polyester, this lightweight jacket has a technical and well-thought-out overall design. Firstly, the outer has a smooth feel, plus the now-acknowledged ‘Windblocker’ denotation – a name it certainly lives up to. Secondly, it has a ‘Breatha-Tex’ membrane, which is waterproof, windproof, breathable, and silent. Also, the lining is soft and comfortable to the touch, yet another bonus. In relation to specification ratings, it can boast being Waterproof: 8,000mm and breathable: 5,000g/m2.

Ratings matter

Waterproof ratings are measured in millimetres (mm) and usually fall anywhere from 800mm to 10,000mm, which indicates the amount of water pressure a fabric can withstand. Material with an 8,000mm rating will endure an 8,000mm or 8m column of water bearing down on it before it starts to leak. This is considered ideal for those who spend long days out in all weather conditions, so no problems there!

Breathability is often measured in g/m2, the amount of moisture by weight that can pass through a square metre of fabric over the course of 24 hours. In this case, it’s suitable for those undertaking medium to moderately high levels of outdoor activity. Breathable garments won’t stop you from sweating because this is just a natural bodily response to activity. However, breathable garments of this level of rating do allow the drying process to happen much more quickly. As the jacket can be used as an outer or part of a layer system, it scores highly and gives the wearer versatility with performance.

Features

The jacket has elasticated cuffs, and the weatherproof main zip makes it easy to control the airflow and temperature, which combined with the specs, speaks for itself. Storage is catered for by a zippered upper chest pocket and two lower side pockets.

It also features contrast side panels, a high collar with contrast trim, a chin guard, and a hanging loop. All zips have pull assists.

Conclusions

The Jack Pyke Weardale Field Jacket is highly versatile and well suited to the transitional months, so autumn into winter and spring into summer. Its superior build attributes allow its use in a layer system, while as an outer layer, the garment will protect against the weather if out hunting, walking or hiking. It’s also extremely light, so can easily be stored, and is the type of jacket you’ll find yourself using with increasing frequency.