The Seeland Hillside Tweed Collection

Seeland is a renowned name in the outdoor and hunting apparel industry, known for producing functional and durable clothing designed to withstand the rigors of country sports. Their new Hillside tweed shooting collection is particularly notable for combining traditional aesthetics with modern performance and features.

I’ve worked in the shooting clothing industry for over two decades and in recent years I have seen the price of tweed shooting suits continuously go up at an above inflation rate that has taken it beyond the price most people can justify, and so sales have dropped dramatically in favour of green shooting jackets made from technical fabrics. I’m a bit of a traditionalist and like to see tweed in the shooting field, so it’s really exciting that Seeland have produced a complete range for both men and ladies that comes in at a really competitive price.

The tweed used in the Hillside range has been woven from a wool and polyester blend. This wool gives the benefit of high heat retention, a luxury feel, and a classic look, whilst the polyester enhances durability, reduces weight and helps with breathability. Blended tweeds like this are now very much the norm, as they technically superior to a pure wool tweed. If you want more insight into suitable suitable fabric for shooting jackets and their technical properties check out our dedicated  blog on Shooting Jacket Fabrics. Seeland have opted for an olive green herringbone tweed pattern, an inspired choice because it is so timeless. Bolder tweeds can date quickly, but a classic green herringbone will be safe option to keep pulling out of your wardrobe for years and years.

Seeland Hillside Tweed Jacket

Seeland Hillside Tweed Jacket: The inclusion of the proven SEETEX® membrane in this jacket makes it both fully waterproof and highly breathable. When assessing a shooting jacket, I look for a few key features: bellow pockets, handwarmer pockets, cartridge pocket retaining straps, a two-way zip with storm flap, adjustable cuffs, an inner zip pocket, and plenty of freedom of movement in the fit. I'm happy to report that this jacket has all of these features. Additionally, it includes two features I particularly appreciate: an adjustable drawcord waist and a rear game pocket. Overall, it’s a really versatile shooting jacket at a very reasonable price.

Seeland Hillside Tweed Waistcoat

Seeland Hillside Tweed Waistcoat: Fit is all important here, as a shooting waistcoat needs suitable tailoring to ensure it works smoothly under a jacket or when raising a gun without a jacket. Seeland have really perfected the fit of this waistcoat, incorporating waist adjuster buttons at the back for crucial adjustability. It also features generously sized cartridge pockets that are easy to access, another essential feature for a functional shooting waistcoat.

Seeland Hillside Tweed Breeks

Seeland Hillside Tweed Breeks: Considering the very reasonable price, Seeland have packed an impressive amount of detail into these breeks. With side pockets, a rear button pocket, and a front coin pocket, they offer plenty of storage options. The first thing I look for in breeks is the calf adjustment type; Velcro provides a really secure hold and adjusts to the exact fit required, so I’m pleased Seeland have chosen this option. Importantly, these breeks also feature the waterproof SEETEX® membrane to keep you dry.

Seeland Hillside Tweed Sixpence Flatcap

Seeland Hillside Tweed Sixpence Flatcap: No shooting suit is complete without a matching cap, and this sixpence-style flat cap finishes the suit perfectly. With a SEETEX® membrane to keep you dry and a wool blend outer fabric for warmth, the cap is ideal both as a stand-alone piece and as the finishing touch to your suit.

Seeland Hillside Harriet Tweed Jacket & Breeks

Seeland Hillside Harriet Tweed Jacket: The Hillside Harriet Tweed Jacket mirrors the men's version in its comprehensive inclusion of essential shooting features and pockets, ensuring it meets all practical requirements. However, it is tailored with a more refined silhouette, blending practicality with style. The jacket also boasts articulated shoulders, ensuring freedom of movement is not compromised.

Seeland Hillside Harriet Tweed Breeks: Finding well-cut ladies' tweed breeks that are also affordable can be a challenge, making these an excellent option. They feature side and rear pockets, Velcro calf fasteners, and an adjustable waist, covering all expected features. Additionally, they are equipped with a waterproof membrane that incorporates an element of stretch, enhancing both comfort and practicality.

Seeland Hillside Harriet Tweed Waistcoat

Seeland Hillside Harriet Tweed Waistcoat: Like ladies’ breeks, good ladies’ tweed shooting waistcoats with the practical features to actually shoot in, and yet still look smart, are hard to come by. Seeland have achieved both with this waistcoat, in a timeless cut and colour that should serve the owner well for many seasons.

Comfort and Fit – Fit is vital with a shooting jacket, see our blog on How to Get the Right Fit for your Shooting Jacket for why. Seeland places a strong emphasis on comfort and practicality in the fit. Their tweeds are designed with the needs of shooters in mind, featuring articulated sleeves and a spacious cut to allow for a full range of motion. Adjustable cuffs, waistbands, and collars help to achieve a snug fit, keeping out the wind and rain. Additionally, many jackets have soft linings and padded shoulders, enhancing comfort during long days in the field.

Practical Features - Functionality is a key aspect of Seeland tweeds. They are equipped with a range of practical features that cater to the demands of shooting. Large cartridge pockets with drainage holes, fleece-lined handwarmer pockets, and secure inner pockets are standard. Some models also include game pockets, which are handy for carrying small game or other essentials. Reinforced shooting patches on the shoulders add extra protection and durability on the waistcoats.

Style and Versatility - While functionality is paramount, Seeland also pays attention to style. Their tweed jackets have a classic, timeless design that looks good both in the field and in casual settings. The traditional tweed patterns and earthy tones are complemented by modern tailoring, creating a jacket that is as stylish as it is practical. This versatility means that a Seeland tweed jacket can transition seamlessly from a day of shooting to a countryside stroll or even a casual social gathering.

Value for Money - Seeland tweed jackets are known for offering good value for money. They provide many of the features and quality found in higher-end brands but at a more accessible price point. This makes them an attractive option for those looking to invest in a reliable and stylish shooting jacket without breaking the bank.

Other Brands To Consider

This very much depends on how much you want to spend, especially given you are likely to be out in the mud, and trampling through brambles, all of which risks wrecking your suit. At the very top end of the price range, brands such as  Laksen and Schoffel produce exceptional tweed garments, but they come in at more than double the price of the Seeland Hillside range.

Alan Paine produce a very comprehensive range of shooting tweeds, with the added advantage of a wide choice of colours, and in very traditional styles. They are a little bit more expensive that the Seeland, but in the same ball park. Likewise,  Hoggs of Fife have also recently launched a new tweed range at a similar price to the Seeland. For something with similar design features, technical properties and price point, Alan Paine and Hoggs are probably the two best brands to compare to when considering the  Seeland Hillside Tweed range.