It’s always fun to see new releases from New York City based Battenwear. The spring / summer collections center around Batten founder Shinya Hasegawa’s love of surfing, the fall/winter collections generally tend to take on a much more vintage outdoors feel. I like Batten’s take on vintage inspired sportswear regardless of pursuit – they do a great job with this collection. Part of me thinks that Battenwear doesn’t get enough credit. All of the clothing is made in the United States under Shinya’s close watch.
What really sets these pieces apart from other similar brands of this aesthetic are the fits. The 60/40 jackets look much like others out there, but the fits are much more evolved. The jackets are slimmer, have higher arm holes and generally fit much better. I have been wearing a red 60/40 jacket over the past few months and I am shocked how many people remark about it. For something as seeming basic as it is, people really respond to it.
For fall 2013 (which hits stores in late August) Batten is offering a bunch of winterized versions of previous styles – like the 60/40 parkas in a few different colors of wool. There’s also a few different vintage styled accessories including bags and hats. There’s nothing too crazy in the collection, it all feels familiar in a good way. The vintage outdoors / Cold Splinters thing may not be your thing, but if even a little part of you likes it then there’s definitely something for you here. With Batten, the collections are small and the line doesn’t move all that fast, but if you are particular about certain shapes, colors and fits than you can appreciate a collection like this. [Battenwear]
How would you say Battenwear parkas compare to Penfield parkas? I’ve been debating which brand to get recently and the price on Battenwear scared me off but after reading this I’m leaning towards Batten. Thanks.
I will need to pick up that parka soon. This season’s mustard colourway is great and so is that dark green one.
Thanks for sharing these pics.
Good looking stuff they got there. Kinda reminds of of Carhartt WIP. I dig it all.
Batten is my choice for travelwear. Very comfortable and no so expensive
These clothes give me the freedom to move without fear of damaging them.
Very durable and high quality outdoor apparell.
I need that quilted hoody, stat!
Very comfortable and not so expensive: Not sure what your clothing budget is, beau, but I would venture to guess most people consider $500 + for a Travel Shell Parka not particularly cheap. I will, however, be saving my pennies for the Melton Parka in black. That shizz is dope.
Ian,
If you like red, that parka is on sale at Independence.
http://goo.gl/dWa6p