WOODLARK JACKET

PRICE: £295

CONTACT: countryinnovation.com

WHAT do I know about winter jackets as I used to live in hot Africa? Well for the last year in the UK my Woodlark jacket has been my go-to whenever the weather has been nasty. So that’s most days really. I’ve worn it to muddy off-road driving days and to fancy pants events full of important people and people who think they are important. The Woodlark is a true all-rounder, happy in the cold and wet and classy enough so you won’t get chucked out of a Vips-only do.

It’s nowhere near as thick, padded and bulky as my Berghaus Parka but don’t let this fool you as it performs just as well. In fact, it’s actually more practical than my Parka if hiking or taking photos. You would need something more substantial underneath it if using it in extreme cold but it’s perfect for the British winter. In fact, the tough, cotton outer fabric has a similar feel to my Prospector Tent. It easily handled all the mud, rain and wind that I exposed it to. Not once did I get wet or think I’m cold. And thanks to the elasticated draw-cords one is able to pull the hood, waist and bottom hem nice and tight to keep out the elements.

Then unlike any other jackets I have ever tested, the Woodlark has 11 pockets. The four in the front are rather large and you can easily store a hip flask in it – I think a puppy would fit to be honest. Pockets also have useful features such as waterproof zips and water-repellant flaps while the side entry ones are fleeced and warm as a result.

I normally wear large shirts but my Woodlark is a medium, yet when chopping wood or doing something physical, it does not feel restrictive at all. The creators of the Woodlark have made something for the outdoors man who moves in places with nasty winters and wants to be dry and warm. Just like my Defender 110, it’s a jacket for life.