Family Owned
Our family’s passion for performance outdoor clothing and manufacturing dates back to the 1920’s and the creation of the Southern Hemisphere’s first down-filled sleeping bags.
New Zealand Made
Our clothing is 100% designed and made right here in New Zealand. We are committed to exceptional quality, supporting local jobs and upholding Aotearoa’s manufacturing expertise.
Sustainability
Making clothing that lasts reduces environmental impact. Repurposing offcuts minimises waste and our repair service maximises garment life. Learn more about our initiatives here.
Pippa McLay (verified owner) –
I bought this fabulous jacket some months ago but with the long hot dry summer have not had too much opportunity to put it through it’s paces! I bought it as a lighter weight and shorter alternative to the ESS’s popular and highly rated “Hydrophobic”. I put a high premium on my gear being light weight/compact but functional and this jacket excels. I have worn it over a light weight top when being wind blasted on exposed tops such as Urchin Peak, Kawaka J and above Lower Tama Lake, and kept dry and warm as it seals around the neck/hood and cuffs. I tend to get hot when tramping but have not had any problems with condensation on the inside. Coupled with good quality over trousers, I was the only tramper still dry and warm on returning to base camp over the Kawaka range in wind and driving rain. I have a shortish body so would find the Hydrophobic too long. I bought it in a size 10 (usually wear size 10 or 12) and have found it plenty roomy enough for layering. I was initially uncertain about buying this garment as there were no reviews, but am very glad I went for it. It’s pricey but will be money well spent in the long run and NZ made to boot 🙂