How HWS Technology in Harkila Jackets Revolutionises Hunting Clothing
Harkila has always been one of our bestselling hunting brands, and it's easy to see why. With their high-quality clothing and innovative technology, they offer everything a serious hunter needs. The brand has gained even more popularity since the release of Netflix's "The Gentlemen," where viewers could see Harkila clothing in action, showcasing its reliability and functionality.
As a member of a regular shoot, I know firsthand how important it is to have dependable, performance-driven gear, and I would highly recommend Harkila as a top choice for anyone serious about their country sports.
But when you're choosing what to go for, you often see a lot of technical jargon thrown around that can be tricky to wrap your head around. And one of the questions we often get asked by customers considering the brand is what does Harkila Weather System (HWS) technology do differently?
So, we thought we'd put together this guide to break down exactly what this technology is all about, explain how it works, and discuss the practical benefits it offers for both experienced pros and those new to the game.
The Innovation Behind HWS Technology
Every story begins somewhere, and, with HWS®, it all started with not wanting to settle for existing solutions because they knew hunters deserved more.
Gore-Tex fabrics feature heavily throughout Harkila's collections, and for good reason. This technology is hugely popular for outdoor and shooting clothing, as it does everything you need it to do.
But the brand wanted to step things up further. They wanted something more specialised, designed to be for hunters. This country pursuit isn't just a pastime, it's a passion that requires dedication and the right equipment.
From experience, I know that hunters face a variety of challenges:
- Weather Conditions: Rain, wind, and cold can ruin a hunt if your outer layers don’t protect you.
- Physical Exertion: Hunting often involves intense physical activity, which means you need clothing that manages sweat and regulates body temperature.
- Stealth: Staying quiet is crucial to avoid alerting game, so your gear needs to be low-noise.
And so Harkila did what they do best, they teamed up with top membrane experts and real experienced hunters to create and test this new technology that would match exactly what people needed out in the field.
It was this hands-on approach that allowed Harkila to fine-tune HWS® to perfection.
Key Features of HWS Technology
To understand what the Harkila Weather System really brings to the table, the brand gives its technical definition:
"The hydrophilic membranes in HWS® technology actively pull sweat away from your body, quickly absorbing and dispersing it across the garment’s surface. This allows for rapid evaporation, helping to regulate your body temperature. Meanwhile, the membrane’s tiny pores are small enough to block external water from getting in, ensuring you stay dry. This innovative technology is built tough to enhance your flexibility and shield you from the elements."
Dissecting things further, there are 5 key elements which make up this technology:
- Waterproof
- Windproof
- Lightweight
- Breathable
- Low-noise
But HWS® isn’t just about technical specs—it’s about real-world benefits that make a difference in your shooting experience. So let's take a look at what these features are all about.
Waterproof
Outdoor activities mean being at the mercy of the elements. Staying dry is essential not just for comfort, but also for preventing hypothermia and maintaining your energy levels throughout the day.
HWS® technology includes a waterproof membrane with tiny pores that are small enough to block water droplets but large enough to let air circulate, so you stay dry without feeling stuffy inside your clothing.
The result is an impressive waterproof rating of 20,000 mm, meaning it can handle even the heaviest downpours without letting water in. When it comes to shooting coats or trousers, this can make a huge difference.
For example, you've invested in the bestselling Harkila Driven Hunt HWS Insulated Jacket and you're heading out hunting. The forecast didn’t call for rain, but halfway through the day, the sky opened up. Instead of getting soaked and cold, you stay dry and warm, thanks to your well-chosen hunting jacket. The reliable waterproof technology keeps you comfortable and focused, no matter how hard it rains. Music to every hunter's ears.
Windproof
Cold winds can cut through your clothing, stealing your warmth and energy, and making challenging conditions even more difficult.
When it comes to outdoor pursuits in the British countryside, practical features like windproofing are what take a hunting jacket from good to great. It means you are getting excellent protection from chilly air, which helps maintain your body heat and keep you comfortable throughout the day.
Say you’re sitting in a blind on a frosty morning, the wind howling around you. You’ve got your Harkila Deer Stalker Camo HWS Gloves on. These hunting gloves block that biting wind, keeping your hands warm and ready for action. Warm hands are crucial for maintaining dexterity, allowing you to handle your firearm with precision when the moment comes. That's the difference HWS® makes.
Lightweight
Heavy hunting clothing can slow you down and make it harder to move quietly. This is another aspect that Harkila conquers with this technology.
Ease of movement is vital for hunters, who often have to make detailed calculations about what step to take and when. By wearing lightweight garments, like those equipped with HWS®, you know that you won't have that bulky feeling that can contribute to both fatigue and loss of agility.
Imagine you're navigating through a dense forest. Every step needs to be silent and precise. You’ve chosen the Harkila Deer Stalker Camo HWS Hunting Trousers, and they don’t weigh you down. This lets you move swiftly and quietly, keeping you alert and ready for whatever comes your way. It's a no-brainer as to why outdoor clothing with HWS® is so popular.
Breathable
Hunting often involves a lot of physical exertion, so sweating is inevitable. But if your gear traps that sweat, you’ll end up feeling clammy and uncomfortable. Not a nice feeling, especially if you've only just started your hunt.
The beauty of HWS® technology is that it uses hydrophilic membranes to manage moisture. These membranes draw sweat away from your skin and spread it across the fabric’s surface, where it evaporates quickly. With a top-range breathability rating of 20,000 mm, you stay dry from the inside out.
Think about the Harkila Orton Tech HWS Packable Smock. It’s popular among hunters because it’s easy to wear and keeps your entire upper body dry. However, it typically has less ventilation than a full-zip jacket. The breathability of the HWS® technology in this hunting smock ensures you stay cool and comfortable, by allowing sweat to evaporate efficiently and regulating your body temperature. So, even if the hunt is high-intensity, you don't have to worry about ending up in your own personal sauna.
Low-noise
Finally, any seasoned hunter knows that stealth is key in this countryside activity. The rustle of clothing can alert your prey and ruin your chances of success.
HWS® technology uses materials that minimise noise, ensuring you move quietly. This handy feature demonstrates the brand's commitment to quality; the steps they've taken to ensure that you're getting the levels of performance you need for your hunting clothing.
Picture lifting your arm to take a shot. You’re wearing the Harkila Retrieve Shooting Jacket, and there’s no rustling to give you away. This low-noise feature is crucial for maintaining your stealth, allowing you to get close to your target without being detected. It's not about second best here, it's about getting it right all the way through.
Summary
Overall, HWS® technology is about understanding the challenges hunters face and providing solutions that really work. It’s built for those who are serious about their hunting and want gear that performs under any condition.
Windproof and waterproof protection, lightweight yet robust construction, breathable membranes, and silent fabric: the modern hunter is kitted out with the best in the business, from gloves to jackets.
So next time you’re gearing up for a hunt, consider trying out Harkila’s HWS® technology. We’re confident it’ll make a big difference in your comfort and performance out there.
Check out our extensive range of Harkila clothing and find the gear that’s right for you.
About the Author
Matthew Holland brings a wealth of expertise and passion to the world of shooting. Residing and working in the beautiful Cheshire countryside, Matthew not only writes about shooting experiences but lives them firsthand. As a member of a regular shoot, he draws from his personal experiences to share insights and recommendations for this country sport. Combining his practical knowledge with a genuine love for country living, Matthew is your trusted guide to all things shooting and hunting.
