My Forum

I have never proofed any of my Extreme gear, although I probably should. The only other manufacturers I would rate are Montane and Buffalo. I have Montane extreme smocks ,which have been good for work but have found the arm holes and wrist holes very restrictive.Also the pile lining and stitch work is not up to the standard of either Buffalo or Extreme.

I have a Buffalo active-lite which I think is excellent and wear beneath my Explorer if conditions are very cold. I also have the Belay jacket, which again is excellent,but I find the collar too short in very cold or windy situations, that don't require a hood. 

The range of seasons that I would say the Explorer can be put to use are Autumn /Winter/Spring .Obviously the temperature has alot do with what you wear underneath it or on top. Mostly I wear a wicking T-shirt. If the temperature drops below 5 degrees or very windy I wear either a K2 Elite shirt or a Buffalo Active -lite underneath.If the temp. drops below freezing then I put a smock over the top.(the Extreme WED smock  or ex-army smock ). If it is really cold I wear Keith's  Extreme field smock with a pile lining and a wicking T-shirt, which is even better than the Buffalo mountain!

I will start with explorer. The first thing I noticed was how lightweight is was compared to other fleeces that I have worn.Secondly, after wearing it solidly for work and pleasure for a couple  of seasons I realised how durable it is and well made it is. The pockets are superbly positioned for access when wearing a rucksack and so are the tactel reinforcements ,positioned on all the major wear points. Excellent movement in the arms . I have the hooded versions, which on cold mornings or windy situations is a real benefit. All in all, a superbly thought out light weight garment. Thats wind and rain resistant.

The K2 elite shirt , probably the garment I wear most days for work. It is made , as the name suggests, from durable K2 fleece with reinforcements on the elbow area.I climb in it every week, unless the weather is too hot. The high lift cut in the arms allows for excellent freedom of movement. The pockets position enable good access, as well ventilation, when using a harness.The scooped hem prevents "riding up" ,which can be problem when wearing certain harnesses. Again it is superbly made and durable.Wind and rain resistant.

I will try and write a bit more later about the field smock (my favourite) and the ocean jacket. 

Extreme outdoor clothing run by Keith Howes is still running.Although I recently spoke to keith and he is slowly winding down the buisness. So if you want to get hold of a great piece of British manufactured kit then give him a ring . I cannot recommend his clothing enough,its made to measure, outstanding quality, totally practical and British designed and made.