FEATURES
rips from thorns and barbed wire than something more substantial, but the price of this smock makes it a lot more affordable to replace than many of the more robust options once it’s reached the end of its useful service life.
Available in sizes from small to XXXL, the Galbraith Smock should offer an option for most shooters. I’m just over six feet tall and of average build, and the large fits me very well. The cut feels nicely fitted without being tight, and leaves room for an extra layer or two if required in colder conditions. Freedom of movement is reasonably good though I’d have appreciated a tad more room across the shoulders to stop it from feeling tight when raising the gun. That said, I’ve also worn this smock fly-fishing – a pursuit that demands a decent degree of movement – and I didn’t find it restrictive.
Too many shooting smocks and jackets seem to be overloaded with pockets these days – to the point that it often takes several attempts to find the piece of kit you’re after. The Galbraith is not one of them, and offers what should be sufficient storage for most shooters. There are two moderate side pockets, both of which feature a soft lining and zips with waterproof seals, and a larger front pocket. The front pocket is big enough to hold a hat and gloves plus one or two other small items of kit, and its storm flap means it can be left unzipped without rain getting in if fast access is required. • Waterproof, windproof
and breathable
• Large drawstring hood
• Spacious front pocket
with storm flap
• Two side pockets with
waterproof zip seals
• Elasticated inner cuff bands
with popper fastening
• Velcro-adjustable outer cuffs
• Lightweight and easy
to stow in a bag
• Affordable without feeling cheap • Quiet brushed tricot shell
with waterproof membrane
• Contemporary and
comfortable cut
For more information visit: www.jackpyke.co.uk
Style
Apart from being comfortable and functional, the styling of the Galbraith Smock is also very contemporary, as are its moss green and brown colour options – there’s also a forest brown camouflage version for improved concealment. I’ve been testing the moss green version, and it’s certainly a smock that can be worn on the school run, down the pub or to nip into the garage without getting funny looks – unlike some of my tree-print camo jackets.
The Galbraith Smock looks set to further strengthen Jack Pyke’s reputation for producing sensibly priced outdoor clothing that will serve shooters well without breaking the bank. Lightweight, quiet and stylish, it’s a great all-rounder that lends itself particularly well to those days when the weather could go either way – days that British shooters will be all too familiar with. It may not be quite as robust as some of its rivals but then it’s not so expensive as to make you afraid to expose it to the rigours of full-on field use.
“When it comes to keeping out the elements, the Galbraith delivers”