A big reason wool itches is because the natural lanolin oils have been pulled out during processing. You can get lanolin oils and re-infuse the wool garment and the itch factor will go away plus it will add a natural water proofing. Good vid man!
As long as you follow directions it's not that bad. I don't wear synthetic garments that will make contact with the oils because that could be bad but cottons and other wools absolutely.
My second day wearing my Lester River/Empire Canvas Boreal Shirt. I am lucky enough to live and work at 9,000 ft in the Bighorn Mountains of Wyoming. My second hand Cabelas snow jacket finally bit the dust; zipper broke, so I decided to replace it with a US made 100% wool pullover. I am outside all winter working on Thiokol snowcats, snowmobiles, a skid steer and clearing snow and ice dams from the lodge and cabin roofs. The energy density of wool and breathe-ability make it ideal for cold snowy conditions. This Boreal shirt was very well thought out. The internal zippered kangaroo pocket, the dividers in the pouch, the wrist snaps, the drawcord hem. Very well made and comfortable. Glad i watched this and other youtube reviews. Made the right choice. I am diggin' it.
Thanks, I have made my own out of canvas in the style of inuit. I layered it with a nice wool sweater and coldgear top. I was able to add coyote fur around my hood. I'm going to get one of yours, you sold me.
One of the best pullovers I have now. Absolutely love it. Wish I could have worn it more. The winter didn't get quite as cold in my neck of the woods. But when it did, I had it on.
It's well worth the money in my opinion. The pocket is huge you can put a lot of stuff inside. Not sure if the other boreal shirts have as good pockets. It's super warm and very well put together. Could last a lifetime so you will never need to buy another winter coat so really the price is good.
In these videos I always see people unhappy about the price. I also see people mentioning the Asbell anorak. From my experience you would not regret getting the Asbell Anorak. It doesn't have all the storage pockets and a cinching hood. But it has the fleece lined hand warmer pocket which I think is awesome. So get/make what you can afford but remember one thing. It's freaking wool! Can a guy/gal that loves getting out in the woods ever go wrong buying wool clothing?
Thanks for the heads up on the front large pocket organizational pockets...haven't heard about those smaller pockets until now and I've known of these tops for a few years now.
Sadly most wool is not capable of giving you 100% of its ability without lanolin being added back to the fabric. The oft mentioned anti bacterial properties are absent if all the lanolin is removed. Also, avoid dry cleaning any wool at all costs.
I have had one for several years. Well worth the cost, and I love it. I am a winter wool soldier all the way. I have deployed in many cold areas when I was in Special Forces, and I know live in a cold wintery mountain area in Western NC. Wool is much better. Merino wool long johns a lot better than polypropaline, capilean and othe synthetics.
I got my Fall 2017, my buddy has one and is not happy because I won't take mine off. I live in Duluth MN where its made so I got it right from the guy. As far as price goes $280 seems steep untell you contemplate what your getting. It's 100% US Army wool blanket which is why its green. It's made in the USA 100% awesome quality. It is built to be an heirloom. With the crazy warmth, this garment offers to compare it to jackets made overseas that don't last half as long. $280 is an easy price to swallow. You pay for what you get. Also if it starts to smell ever don't wash just leave it in the sun to let the UV kill of bacteria. The only thing I've thought of is it would be nice if the pockets zipped shut on the ends. I've spent a lot of time outside in very snowy conditions and you get snow in the pocket. Snowblowing aswell.
If you have watched this great review and think this garment is for you.....just buy one! (I have no connections to Lester River and offer my testimonial purely as an enthusiastic recent buyer!) I waited for several years having seen them on You Tube and read reviews from Bushcrafters in the US and here in the UK, but always paused when looking at the price tag. Having searched around, I couldn't find anything quite like it here and eventually decided to commit and get one. Despite the cost (and the shock of the INSANE and quite frankly CRIMINAL UK customs duty!!) I have to say, it is a fantastic wool smock/anorak and I am delighted with the quality and style. It will last a lifetime of outdoor use and I cannot wait for decent cold weather now to go out and play! Lester River make an outstanding product and I think if this is the type of kit you can see yourself wearing and using, you will not be disappointed. It ticks so many boxes for Bushcraft and woodland use in the Autumn and Winter. It looks great and the colour is spot on. The quality of wool used is also wonderful. As mentioned in this review, they are designed slightly large to allow for a mix of garments to be worn underneath. I am a slim 6ft 2" and bought the Medium after much careful measuring. It is a perfect fit to wear over the usual base layer, shirt and sweater combo and I can even pop a down jacket on underneath for extreme cold and still move well. The big plus there is that the wool is naturally very fire retardant and will protect my expensive down jacket (or anything else man made such as a fleece) from sparks. Love it!
Just got one of these off eBay recently. I lucked out it was practically new, it just was never could enough where the seller was so he had no need. Long story short, I totally agree it's a fantastic piece of gear! I would've easily paid full price for it.
That looks medieval in a good way. You'll need a longbow with that! 100% wool is really expensive - but priceless in the cold. A tight fitting woolen sweater with a generous turtle neck is also a huge boost.
I have one and LOVE mine!!! It's worth every penny. I normally wear XXL , but the XL Boreal Fits perfectly. It's one of my favorite pieces of kit. -Stephen, Ohio
Sign me up! I freeze at work, I work night shift. I've looked into heated jackets, but the battery runs out in 2-4hrs. I work a12 hr shift. I love wool and I love hoodies, ta da! Answer to my problems! Thanks for including the link!
Good video! Yup, I've been considering an Anorak like that... When your cold that Boreal shirt is something to consider! There's a fella in Canada who makes them as well..! Thanks again! Happy New Year to you and your family! Ross The Santa Fe Man
Yep. Love mine. Would never give it up. My lady also makes wool benies and socks. So I have a hat like that and also she made me a double layer one. Y0 from Idah0!
I think it's pretty interesting. I see allot of good there. Looks like it's made from army blankets. Most green blankets I see these days are only 70% wool unfortunately though... The price is kind of the downside. I have a similar concept suit made by Sukonka in Russia. I think I paid around $120 shipped for it.
I was really excited when mine showed up, lol but I need it to freeze here so I can wear it haha. It's very warm...did I see a 1911 by DarkTimber on your belt???👍
always with the cool gear... awesome very impressed... what is any camping gear set with out a wool blanket but a wool hoodie ,, wow very impressed... cool
Is there any difference in warmth, durability, and other properties between the boreal wool anorak and a wool coat -overcoat, topcoat or great coat (@t )?
I have this shirt, and in the same size too. two things. Yes, it is itchy. I don't know about the continuous wearing stopping that...actually I especially found the neck gaiter and hood/ touching the sides of the face to be especially bad. I am considering getting the shoulders, neck and interior hood lined. It's just that the tailors tend to have satin fabric which is too dainty. I wanted to find the same nylon that the interior pockets were lined in. Secondly, it is wind porous. The canvas anorak that is offered by empirecanvasworks.com is over $300 but was designed as an shell for this shirt with a zip pass through to access the garment under neath. It is not water proof. I've seen people mention treating it with Nitwax but this does apparently have an effect on breathability. Nice product. I'd like to see a followup with suggestions for a waterproof shell and hooded base layer if you do not get it lined.
$300 dollars... Me thinks not. I have a Chicom knock off that is not that warm b/c it is thin. It ain't wool neither! It was a bait and switch for $36 supposed to be like the one shown here. Took way too long to get it and when I received it I just kept it. Probably give it away and stick with my military OD green!
Would it be possible to pull the bottom up to your waist and tighten the cord around your waist so you could get to your pants pockets and things on your belt easier?
Good video Ben. ..does wool itch for you? that's what concerns me, 30 years ago it bothered me. not sure if I want to spend 280.00 dollars to find out...
Great looking shirt Ben. On the sizing issue do you mind telling us how tall you are? I like things loose and I'm 6'2" and I'm afraid to order it too small. Thanks for sharing this.
I've got one. I'm 5"10 about 12 stone I've got size XL i still have a ton of space and the sleeves also cover my hands. Personally I think that size would fit you nicely.
KrackerJax I'm 5'7" and I went with a Large. Jason suggested I get a medium even though I have a large chest , shoulders and lats. I sent it back for a large. It comes down to my thighs but as you will find out , it's challenging to pull over your shoulders and I wanted to layer it and put garments under it. Jason will work with you if you need to exchange it for another size. He always answers his phone and will help you with sizing or any questions. Highly recommended 👍👍
KrackerJax I'm 6'3", 260 and my XL fits me like it was tailored made, they fit loose, their supposed too. So glad I bought one! I will never get rid of mine!!! NEVER! -Stephen, Ohio
KrackerJax There are as many videos as there are opinions on what size you should get. Do yourself a huge favor and call Jason for yourself about size questions. Who better to ask than the maker of these Boreal Shirts ? He's a great guy to deal with and he will see to it that your 100% satisfied. This is my personal experience in dealing with Jason verbally. Good Luck , Peace
Yo prepared mind 101 did that same wool pullover years ago look it up no lie......... But it's a nice pullover holly shit I've been watching these videos long time......... Mabe I'm wrong check it out!!!!!!!!!!
Don't get burned by the $40 Chinese knock-offs. They look right, but aren't 100% wool and thin as a couple of polo shirts sewn together. For one of these as thick as a peacoat, I'd spend the money.
A big reason wool itches is because the natural lanolin oils have been pulled out during processing. You can get lanolin oils and re-infuse the wool garment and the itch factor will go away plus it will add a natural water proofing. Good vid man!
I've seen a video saying that I believe. Doesn't it get all over your stuff though?
As long as you follow directions it's not that bad. I don't wear synthetic garments that will make contact with the oils because that could be bad but cottons and other wools absolutely.
Erik22552 an if ur gna pat 280 for this it should already be DE-itchatized.
I'm 5' 10" and 180 lbs and I ordered a large and it is perfect to be able to layer underneath. Great piece of gear.
My second day wearing my Lester River/Empire Canvas Boreal Shirt. I am lucky enough to live and work at 9,000 ft in the Bighorn Mountains of Wyoming. My second hand Cabelas snow jacket finally bit the dust; zipper broke, so I decided to replace it with a US made 100% wool pullover.
I am outside all winter working on Thiokol snowcats, snowmobiles, a skid steer and clearing snow and ice dams from the lodge and cabin roofs.
The energy density of wool and breathe-ability make it ideal for cold snowy conditions.
This Boreal shirt was very well thought out.
The internal zippered kangaroo pocket, the dividers in the pouch, the wrist snaps, the drawcord hem.
Very well made and comfortable.
Glad i watched this and other youtube reviews.
Made the right choice.
I am diggin' it.
Thanks for the input. Enjoy.
Thanks, I have made my own out of canvas in the style of inuit. I layered it with a nice wool sweater and coldgear top. I was able to add coyote fur around my hood. I'm going to get one of yours, you sold me.
One of the best pullovers I have now. Absolutely love it. Wish I could have worn it more. The winter didn't get quite as cold in my neck of the woods. But when it did, I had it on.
It's well worth the money in my opinion. The pocket is huge you can put a lot of stuff inside. Not sure if the other boreal shirts have as good pockets. It's super warm and very well put together. Could last a lifetime so you will never need to buy another winter coat so really the price is good.
I had this now for 4 years and it is hands down the best money spent on gear. It's bomb proof!
Daniel Doherty does it itch like hell thu I don't understand why no one is answering this question
In these videos I always see people unhappy about the price. I also see people mentioning the Asbell anorak. From my experience you would not regret getting the Asbell Anorak. It doesn't have all the storage pockets and a cinching hood. But it has the fleece lined hand warmer pocket which I think is awesome. So get/make what you can afford but remember one thing. It's freaking wool! Can a guy/gal that loves getting out in the woods ever go wrong buying wool clothing?
Thanks for the heads up on the front large pocket organizational pockets...haven't heard about those smaller pockets until now and I've known of these tops for a few years now.
Sadly most wool is not capable of giving you 100% of its ability without lanolin being added back to the fabric. The oft mentioned anti bacterial properties are absent if all the lanolin is removed. Also, avoid dry cleaning any wool at all costs.
I have had one for several years. Well worth the cost, and I love it. I am a winter wool soldier all the way. I have deployed in many cold areas when I was in Special Forces, and I know live in a cold wintery mountain area in Western NC. Wool is much better. Merino wool long johns a lot better than polypropaline, capilean and othe synthetics.
Thanks for watching and the comment.
I got my Fall 2017, my buddy has one and is not happy because I won't take mine off. I live in Duluth MN where its made so I got it right from the guy. As far as price goes $280 seems steep untell you contemplate what your getting. It's 100% US Army wool blanket which is why its green. It's made in the USA 100% awesome quality. It is built to be an heirloom. With the crazy warmth, this garment offers to compare it to jackets made overseas that don't last half as long. $280 is an easy price to swallow. You pay for what you get. Also if it starts to smell ever don't wash just leave it in the sun to let the UV kill of bacteria.
The only thing I've thought of is it would be nice if the pockets zipped shut on the ends. I've spent a lot of time outside in very snowy conditions and you get snow in the pocket. Snowblowing aswell.
If you have watched this great review and think this garment is for you.....just buy one! (I have no connections to Lester River and offer my testimonial purely as an enthusiastic recent buyer!) I waited for several years having seen them on You Tube and read reviews from Bushcrafters in the US and here in the UK, but always paused when looking at the price tag. Having searched around, I couldn't find anything quite like it here and eventually decided to commit and get one. Despite the cost (and the shock of the INSANE and quite frankly CRIMINAL UK customs duty!!) I have to say, it is a fantastic wool smock/anorak and I am delighted with the quality and style. It will last a lifetime of outdoor use and I cannot wait for decent cold weather now to go out and play! Lester River make an outstanding product and I think if this is the type of kit you can see yourself wearing and using, you will not be disappointed. It ticks so many boxes for Bushcraft and woodland use in the Autumn and Winter. It looks great and the colour is spot on. The quality of wool used is also wonderful. As mentioned in this review, they are designed slightly large to allow for a mix of garments to be worn underneath. I am a slim 6ft 2" and bought the Medium after much careful measuring. It is a perfect fit to wear over the usual base layer, shirt and sweater combo and I can even pop a down jacket on underneath for extreme cold and still move well. The big plus there is that the wool is naturally very fire retardant and will protect my expensive down jacket (or anything else man made such as a fleece) from sparks. Love it!
I bought one...the hoodie is awesome and very warm during the winter up here in New Hampshire..
Just got one of these off eBay recently. I lucked out it was practically new, it just was never could enough where the seller was so he had no need. Long story short, I totally agree it's a fantastic piece of gear! I would've easily paid full price for it.
That looks medieval in a good way. You'll need a longbow with that!
100% wool is really expensive - but priceless in the cold. A tight fitting woolen sweater with a generous turtle neck is also a huge boost.
yes, these are expensive but they are the real deal. the scammers come out of the woodwork this time of year.
I have one and LOVE mine!!! It's worth every penny. I normally wear XXL , but the XL Boreal Fits perfectly. It's one of my favorite pieces of kit. -Stephen, Ohio
Thanks Ben. I think it's worth the price. Pockets galore and built in cinch ties. Love it
I've wanted one of those for a few years...I just can't afford it. that said, awesome video my friend.
i traded for mine, lol.
Feral Woodcraft do u guys even get cold enough for it lol
Yep. it was 6 degrees this AM. currently it's 13. Our winter is shorter but it does get pretty chilly.
Look at Fred Asbell wool much better price
I just ordered two! Spending time out in the elements, it doesn't get any better than wool.
Sign me up! I freeze at work, I work night shift. I've looked into heated jackets, but the battery runs out in 2-4hrs. I work a12 hr shift. I love wool and I love hoodies, ta da! Answer to my problems! Thanks for including the link!
I've worn mine backpacking, I haven't found it to be too bulky or heavy. It rocks.
You find some the best gear out.Thankx for all the great vids
I think I remember you talking about the boreal shirt... love it by the way... soon as i win the lottery i'm getting one lol
Personally I prefer the Boreal Anorak, made in Canada and are also 100% wool. In my opinion they are a superior Anorak.
Good video!
Yup, I've been considering an Anorak like that...
When your cold that Boreal shirt is something to consider!
There's a fella in Canada who makes them as well..!
Thanks again!
Happy New Year to you and your family!
Ross
The Santa Fe Man
Yep. Love mine. Would never give it up. My lady also makes wool benies and socks. So I have a hat like that and also she made me a double layer one.
Y0 from Idah0!
It's awesome you can tell it's good quality as soon as you put it on. Video doesn't do it full justice.
I think it's pretty interesting. I see allot of good there.
Looks like it's made from army blankets. Most green blankets I see these days are only 70% wool unfortunately though...
The price is kind of the downside. I have a similar concept suit made by Sukonka in Russia. I think I paid around $120 shipped for it.
That jacket look super warm and you don't even have a shell on it. But I wouldn't wear cotton once it gets wet it's game over.
great review i love mine...i am 6'2" and weigh 245...i wear the xl
I was really excited when mine showed up, lol but I need it to freeze here so I can wear it haha. It's very warm...did I see a 1911 by DarkTimber on your belt???👍
I see you are rocking your 1911 Elite! DTB!
Looking at getting one of these.. was a perfect review thanks!
always with the cool gear... awesome very impressed... what is any camping gear set with out a wool blanket but a wool hoodie ,, wow very impressed... cool
The biggest question is
Does it itch ? Will it itch if it's all ur wearing ? Will it itch at all in general ?
Yes it will
That hoodie is awesome. Thanks for posting
Love the shirt but the price point is way too high. I plan on making one once I source a decent wool blanket to use.
I like it. Looks very comfy and very effective.
Sweet one outstanding review. If i had cold weather i would need one.
ya i wear a 3x in regular hoodies website say only up to an xl bummer
What about the cheaper ones ? Cause 200 plus is out of my range
chinese crap....not wool....wimpy
thanks for your review Ben! looks very nice!
thanks for watching!
What is the knife you are wearing?
i`m a 3X going to call see if they do custom orders. great vid
Is there any difference in warmth, durability, and other properties between the boreal wool anorak and a wool coat -overcoat, topcoat or great coat (@t )?
I love it great hoodie looks warm as hell !! I normally take xxl but if the sizes are generous I could probs get away with the XL .regards
" Beast"
What's the other sock made out of??? Great videos man, I'm gonna try to make a jacket like this. Thanks for all the good videos.
I have this shirt, and in the same size too. two things. Yes, it is itchy. I don't know about the continuous wearing stopping that...actually I especially found the neck gaiter and hood/ touching the sides of the face to be especially bad. I am considering getting the shoulders, neck and interior hood lined. It's just that the tailors tend to have satin fabric which is too dainty. I wanted to find the same nylon that the interior pockets were lined in. Secondly, it is wind porous. The canvas anorak that is offered by empirecanvasworks.com is over $300 but was designed as an shell for this shirt with a zip pass through to access the garment under neath. It is not water proof. I've seen people mention treating it with Nitwax but this does apparently have an effect on breathability.
Nice product. I'd like to see a followup with suggestions for a waterproof shell and hooded base layer if you do not get it lined.
$300 dollars... Me thinks not. I have a Chicom knock off that is not that warm b/c it is thin. It ain't wool neither! It was a bait and switch for $36 supposed to be like the one shown here. Took way too long to get it and when I received it I just kept it. Probably give it away and stick with my military OD green!
Not windproof? Poncho over it or Duluth windproof fleece jacket under it.
Thanks for this video I've been looking for this particular hoodie... 👍🤓👌
Great!
you could put hand warmers in those little pockets
How bad is the itching...if you wear jeans and another jumper underneath will they suffice to stop it....I hate itching I'd rather be cold!
Wear a long sleeve under and it’s fine.
I like your video's, you are very informative. Good job!
Great rundown I need one!!
OK, I gotta ask ... just to complete the sartorial review - your pants, what make are they ?
Very cool or should I say warm hoodie
you should do another zombie survival video
i've been meaning to ;)
I ordered one that looks just like it on sale for $90.
Would it be possible to pull the bottom up to your waist and tighten the cord around your waist so you could get to your pants pockets and things on your belt easier?
I suppose you could.
Good video Ben. ..does wool itch for you? that's what concerns me, 30 years ago it bothered me. not sure if I want to spend 280.00 dollars to find out...
It does at the start of the season but as long as I have an under layer it doesn't bother me. It actually gets more comfortable the more you wear it.
Made in Duluth, MN, where they know what it's like to be cold (& covered in snow).
How do you wash it so it does not shrink??
You don’t. It’s naturally antibacterial
Looks like a great shirt!
An item you can pass on to your kids.
I know this video is older, but what was the other brand that you mentioned at the end of the video?
Weatherwool maybe. Don’t remember.
Great looking shirt Ben. On the sizing issue do you mind telling us how tall you are? I like things loose and I'm 6'2" and I'm afraid to order it too small. Thanks for sharing this.
I've got one. I'm 5"10 about 12 stone I've got size XL i still have a ton of space and the sleeves also cover my hands. Personally I think that size would fit you nicely.
I’m 6’2” 205 and the large fits me great
Thanks for the excellent explanation
Best 300 bucks I've ever spent
Dang,how much does this cost??
how tall are you? I'm 6'5" about 260lb. just trying to figure a size, I been eye balling this since I seen Shug do a video on it.
5'10"
KrackerJax I'm 5'7" and I went with a Large. Jason suggested I get a medium even though I have a large chest , shoulders and lats. I sent it back for a large. It comes down to my thighs but as you will find out , it's challenging to pull over your shoulders and I wanted to layer it and put garments under it.
Jason will work with you if you need to exchange it for another size. He always answers his phone and will help you with sizing or any questions.
Highly recommended 👍👍
KrackerJax I'm 6'3", 260 and my XL fits me like it was tailored made, they fit loose, their supposed too. So glad I bought one! I will never get rid of mine!!! NEVER! -Stephen, Ohio
KrackerJax There are as many videos as there are opinions on what size you should get. Do yourself a huge favor and call Jason for yourself about size questions. Who better to ask than the maker of these Boreal Shirts ? He's a great guy to deal with and he will see to it that your 100% satisfied. This is my personal experience in dealing with Jason verbally. Good Luck , Peace
KrackerJax Im 6'4" and 260 I also have the XL fits great, what are you waiting for you will love this............
Awesome review!
loved to own one but can't afford that much lol house 1st stay safe brother
These are very good. have fun.
I will add to what I just posted. There are a number of German made wool shirts, jackets like the one are showning. the cost is higher. 300 plus euro.
Where can I get one?
Thanks for the good review. Did you receive it for free or at a discount?
I traded for it.
I like these shirts.
Nice
Great review
Is the other company you mentioned Empire Wool and Canvas Company? If not, have you tried their products? Thanks for your videos! - Mike
G Fred Asbell
Good stuff. Thanks
What size? Thanks
Large
So I‘m 5‘7“, about 155 lbs.
would Medium work for me?
Small
One day I'll have one.
im buying one as soon as i get back to work
DO IT!
what's the best way to wash it?
i believe it's pre-shrunk so you can launder it on delicate but you really shouldn't have to all that often.
Awesome shirt
this hoodie is awesome I have one it's done well in the PA . cold I would love to find a pair of over pants to match up with it . know of any ?
Military surplus.
That's a good though thanks I'll have to look on line there's none around here where I live
German or Swedish I have seen have good wool pants.
Thanks again bud
Thanks
Really nice hoodie =)
how tall are you?
5-10
Where did you get the belt?
ttmac badgerclaw leatherworks
I wish I lived in an area that would justify that shirt. This Florida weather is just not for me
Where can I buy it
Lester river bushcraft. Only way to guarantee an original and not fake.
@@livingsurvival thanks man 🤛
Yo prepared mind 101 did that same wool pullover years ago look it up no lie......... But it's a nice pullover holly shit I've been watching these videos long time......... Mabe I'm wrong check it out!!!!!!!!!!
Good ole Michigan weather lol
I love it
awesome
Can't find it. I only see the cheep Chinese fake.
lrbushcraft.com
Don't get burned by the $40 Chinese knock-offs. They look right, but aren't 100% wool and thin as a couple of polo shirts sewn together. For one of these as thick as a peacoat, I'd spend the money.
the scammers come out of the woodwork this time of year!
Thanks for the review Ben. I'd pay $280.00 if it repelled water.
Jason Allen wool stays warm even when its wet so there wouldn't be much of a point
Yes but I was thinking more about the clothes I wear under the wool.
:-)
I'm not even sure you can waterproof wool. Most of what I've seen include a waxed canvas outer coat