January in the UK wouldn’t be complete without the obligatory layering up when getting outdoors. But with some many options what to wear? For those of us who enjoy the outdoors in the colder months, we need clothing that is robust, durable, and comfortable, that’s why anyone who pursues the outdoors this year, we suggest you add Schoffel to your wardrobe. The original outdoor apparel company Schoffel is the leader in their domain. A Schöffel fleece is the ultimate country wardrobe staple. Attend any type of country event, from a weekend shoot to an agricultural show, and you will no doubt see plenty of people wearing their Schöffel. Recognizable from its brown trim and a vast range of rich country colors, the Oakham Fleece Gilet is a particularly iconic style amidst Schöffel’s range of fleeces and, even though it lies at the more expensive end of the market, it’s always in demand and a perennial best seller. From their humble German origins, Schöffel has become the leading premium field sports brand in the UK. In the 1990s, the Schöffel family teamed up with Bradshaw Taylor, experts in British outdoor and country clothing, to develop a range of clothing tailored to the needs of the British field sports market and Schöffel Country was formed. But why is the fleece so popular? Crafted from premium fleece manufactured in Italy by Pontetorto, Schöffel’s range of fleeces uses Technostretch technology. Pontetorto are a family-run mill who have been making fabrics since 1952 and Technostretch is their line of highly technical fleece. The fabric features a durable and abrasion-resistant smooth outer face and a fleece pile inner that traps heat to provide superior thermal insulation. The elastomeric fibre between the face and reverse gives maximum comfort, movement, and performance. It creates a smooth-fitting garment with some stretch, whilst also being remarkably lightweight. Made from 100% polyester, the fleece is also ideal for regulating body temperature by wicking away moisture so you stay dry and comfortable. These technical properties make the fleece much warmer than many heavier, more bulky fabrics and are why Schöffel’s fleeces are so easy and comfortable to wear. These features combined make it perfect for a whole multitude of different activities, be it shooting, working outside, gardening, walking, riding, exercising the dog, or simply sitting outside the pub having a beer! And, of course, it’s machine washable and quick drying meaning you never have to wait long for it to be clean and ready to wear again. Available in a wide range of colors to choose from, it’s certainly a go-to piece for every occasion. So we tell you, walk onto any shoot, farm, or into a country cottage, and the occupants will tell you they rely on Schoffel and their products when the weather hits hard. The Oakham is both a city and country staple. Anyone serious about the outdoors wear Schoffel, so don’t get caught out. £159.95, Available Schoffelcountry.com