26th January 2009, 01:37 AM
Quote:quote:Originally posted by BAJR Host
I really don't.. ! :0 but let us know if you do field testing!
My Regattas got a field testing today!
Baby 1... Regattas 0
Generally find them a bit thin on their own, though plenty of pockets some are difficult to access in a hurry. Probably great for summer. Only had to dig in them once so far. They washed and dried easy enough afterwards. Bit smarter than combats so fine for site visits, meet the clients and all that stuff, but can't imagine they'll last any serious long term digging.
Oh and thanks for the clothing tips.
Dirty Dave - For socks I've been using Brasher cushion loop, and they are lovely. So lovely I frequently find they've been borrowed! Seriously, they do last.
For boots I go for a walking boot style toe tector, got the last pair in Lidls (all EU certified the lot). The padded ankle support has kept me from falling over, and saved my ankles from a fair few rocks.
Wouldn't dream of taking my Goretex jacket to site - would be kiss of death for sure. I find those padded hi-vis jackets are great for keeping warm especially if you are moving. Hoods on them are pathetic, but then most of the time you are in a hard hat anyway. Have a Berghause fleece then various cotton layers on underneath (I know, I know) and in deepest winter add a silk thermal vest. Regatta shirts are good for a bit of smartness when required and light enough to keep me covered in summer.
Also for winter I have a ribbed pair of cotton long johns that have lasted since 84/85 and a nylon balaclava that goes back even further. Best gloves for winter digging were some flock lined brown leather things we got a few years back. Being leather you could proof them with Nikwax to keep the water out, kept your hands warm but also bruise, blister and scratch free. Too bulky to write in though. Single use vinyl gloves can help keep your hands from chapping and keep your hands clean for when you need to whip the camera out on watching briefs.
Troll - think you might have a point there. Can see it working for the big units like Oxford and Wessex, especially bulk buy on outdoor wear. For smaller units one-off use of specialist kit where the sponsor gets a nice write up on their website would probably go well, as would personal testimonials. In fact if you've used a particularly good piece of kit it is probably worth writing in and telling them you have used product x for so and so for the last n years in the most testing conditions. There ought to be a freebie in it at the least!