The latest model from clothing manufacturer Country Innovation has recently been introduced. the Traveller jacket is made from a high-quality, lightweight low-rustle material. It is fully waterproof, olive coloured and has masses of pockets, a detachable hood, adjustable cuffs and a two-way zip. Regular readers of Birdwatch will know I like birding gear from Country Innovation; I’ve bought many items including boots, hats, gloves and the top-of-the-range Rover jacket in the past.
And I really like the Traveller; it has a comfortable feel to it, is pleasant to wear and is extrememely practical. It is essentially a photographers waistcoat with arms, and I much prefer it. Whenever I wear a waistcoat I invariably end up walking through waist-high brambles or nettles, and return with scratches and stings to my arms – not any more!
Seven pockets include two handy inside zipped ones, perfect for wallet, mobile phone and memory cards, as well as two large lower pockets both with internal zipped pockets. The lower pockets also have side openings that can be used for cloths or just as somewhere to put your hands on a cool autumn morning. Adjustable cuffs and a lower drawstring complete the features.
Out in the field, the Traveller posed no problems. It really is waterproof and the pockets hold everything I need which is quite a lot as I tend not to carry my camera bag around with me, preferring instead to stuff converters, spare body, short-range zoom, spare battery and memory cards into my pockets. With this jacket I can even slip in the odd bar of chocolate, or apple on a healthy day. The pocket stitching also appears strong enough to withstand the amount I put in them and the treatment I give any coat during general use, which includes lying on it for low-level photos of various insects throughout the summer. (Posted on 25/08/2011)
 
To view the Traveller Jacket – click here

Country Innovation has become synonymous with quality clothing over the last 10 years or so.
The latest addition the Osprey Jacket a waterproof, windproof and breathable jacket made from Ventile with and additional waterproof lining. To test the jacket i took it to Falsterbo in Sweden on a recent visit to the bird fair there.
The jacket is nicely designed, roomy, lightweight and comfortable to wear. The two zipped inside pockets were perfect for my passport and wallet. The internal side zip pocket is ideal for a mobile phone, memory card. Two large side pockets, each with a smaller outside zipped pocket built in, and two side hand pockets complete the storage space in the coat – enough for anyone. The detachable hood is excellent, and is the same design and size as on the ever-popular top of the range Rover model. Large, strong and wired it really does deflect the wind and keeps out the rain.
Although the early mornings and late evenings were cool in Sweden, I didnt feel the need for anything other than the Osprey to keep me warm. When back home I tested it against the British Autumn weather too. A thick fleece underneath can be worn for extra warmth. The Osprey perfomed perfectly in all conditions, wet or windy and even both were no problem. This jacket is a welcome addition to the Country Innovation range, It is just about perfect for the spring and autumn weather, and with the addition of an extra layer or two it could easily become the choice of many all year round. Reviewed in Birdwatch Magazine Jan 2011.
(Posted on 22/12/2010)
 
To see the Osprey Jacket – click here

The new Osprey Jacket is Country Innovation’s latest addition to its range of Ventile garments. Much like the Osprey, the new jacket is stylish, eye-catching and has remarkable waterproof qualities that will stop even the most intrepid birders getting soaked in wet conditions. It also has all the essential requirements for a birder in the field. Its comfortable, hard-wearing, rustle-proof and has plenty of pocket space.The Ospreys weatherproofing comes courtesy of the incredible properties of Ventile, a cotton-based fabric that helped save lives in one of the Second World War’s most brutal conflicts. The fabric, which was developed by scientists at the Shirley Institute Manchester, saw the survival rate soar to four out of five pilots. The Osprey has a Ventile outer/Innovation XL lining, detachable hood, two large lower pockets, two chest pockets, large zippered security pocket, two inner pockets, rear shoulder pleats, elbow patches, two way main zip and hem drawcord. Its the perfect jacket for birders and wildlife enthusiasts. Reviewed in Sunday Express Nov 10 by Stuart Winter. (Posted on 29/11/2010)
 
To view the Osprey Jacket – click here.

There was a real bitter chill to the northerly wind as I stepped from the car. Up here on the Great Orme, North Wales it can be bleak and you need the right gear if you are to enjoy your visit. Reaching for my new Rover jacket I was reassured by its feel, rugged. Pulling the jacket on the wind was instantly shut out, the heavy duty zip was pulled up and I at once felt ready to face the elements.
The rover jacket is a product that oozes quality, it is put together to last, it feels a serious bit of clothing. It is, of course, completely water proof as I found when caught out in a very nasty shower driven in by the northerly wind. I was dry and warm throughout not a drop of water or any of the chill air got through this tough garment. The Rover comes with a detachable hood, ideal for birdwatchers who tend not to use this unless the conditions are really grim, important to hear passing birds! The collar has a draw-string which helps keep body heat in when you need it. The rugged zip looks like it will last, and take anything you can throw at it. A Country Innovation fleece can be zipped inside if you are in extremely low temperatures or are sitting still for long spells. There is also a push buttoned flap covering the zip giving extra protection from the wind. Other draw strings at the waist and at the bottom of the jacket keeps the wearer snug and when combined with over trousers completely dry. Adjustable cuffs ensure the weather does not sneak in here. Two angled breast pockets are handy hand warmers but a little shallow for much else. The lower pockets are large and deep, will easily take an OS Map or a field guide and or snacks and notebook.
All in all this is a perfect jacket for taking on the outdoors! My birdwatching trips are going to be a lot more comfortable with my Rover Jacket, bring on winter.

To view the Rover Jacket – click here

“Whilst touring Shetland earlier this year, I visited Hermaness, the most northerly inhabited location in the British Isles. The dramatic cliffs hold host to thousands of breeding seabirds during the summer months. Even at this time of year a warm jacket and fleece were essential as I was working until nearly midnight photographing the obliging Puffins. Here a friend was precariously poised on the edge of the cliff with a very tame Puffin paying no attention to him at all! Being so close a wide-angle lens can be used to really show the subject within the environment.”

To view the Buzzard Jacket – click here.

During the summer months when birdlife is quieter, I focus on watching and photographing butterflies and dragonflies. The Venture Waistcoat is a perfect addition to my outdoor gear, providing ample pockets for all the gadgets, food and reference material I need to carry.

The collar is great for protecting my neck from the sun as well as preventing my binocular strap from rubbing. It is lightweight and cool wearing so I can continue enjoying my subjects without feeling hot and uncomfortable.

To view the Venture  Waistcoat – click here