GO WEST
Last month in London, American manufacturers Rivers West Apparel, Inc. launched their latest clothing range. It is called the Hydro2 PowerLock System and has been billed as the world's first 100% waterproof and windproof fleece fabric. Though suitable for a range of outdoor pursuits, hunters appear to be one of the main target markets. And who better is there to appreciate the level of protection this claims to offer than someone in a high seat on a wet Winter's morning?

Having been two years in the making, due to the extensive testing and research process, Rivers West is hoping to rectify the flaw that has afflicted many of our purchases in the past - that they only do half the job. "While most people buy an expensive waterproof shell and then spend more money on a fleece jacket for insulation," Michael McGinley, the President, begins, "we wanted to combine the two to make it more cost effective."

The material used in the construction of these clothes was rigorously tested. Bags were made from it, filled with 5-gallons of water and then left for a fortnight. If, after this period, no leaks are detected, only then is the fabric cleared to carry the H2P label. The fabric has also been extensively checked for durability and having been put to the test against Gore-Tex, it beat this old favourite into submission. Stylish as these products are, and with a range of options available including jackets, body warmers, trousers, hats and blankets, Rivers West looks to have a hit on their hands.

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