Finally, some clothing that's fit for the job

After years of being overlooked, women shooters now have some practical, comfortable options. Ellena Swift puts the best to the test

- Ellena Swift

The Sasta Siiri jacket is Ellena’s favourite

As any woman involved in fieldsports will know, buying shooting clothing can be a bit of a nightmare. In decades past, I joined my first beating line and was clad in a wax jacket and trousers that disintegrated within a day. Many manufacturers overlooked us and in very recent — more inclusive — times there has been far more available. But it has often been of the pink, fur-trimmed and impractical variety.

A lot of women in years gone by gave up looking at the women’s clothing and bought men’s purely for practicality. However, the fit was never quite right and there’s nothing more frustrating than forking out for something that really isn’t that comfortable.

Design challenge

Now that is starting to change. Fortunately, as more women get involved in country pursuits, manufacturers are recognising that there is money to be made if they can make a name for themselves. It is not that easy for the designers, though, as women require many different characteristics from their clothing.

First and foremost, it has to be practical. As amazing as it might look or expensive as it may be, the vast majority of women on the shooting field want the clothing that actually works. I spend the vast majority of my life out with dogs and in the field in some capacity or another.

“A lot of women in years gone by gave up looking at the women’s clothing and bought men’s purely for the practicality”