January 27, 2011
By Kathy Etling
From the first moment I tried on SHE Outdoor Apparel's C-4 jacket and pants, I was sold. You -- or the bowhunting woman in your life -- will be too!
By Kathy Etling
These items are quality, all the way. Whether you're talking fit, fabric or function, the C-4 line is a super duo that probably can't be beat even when it comes to price (which is reasonable compared to similar items being marketed to male bowhunters). The C-4 Jacket and Pant I tested clung without being "clingy," if that makes any sense. In other words, the gunny sack look is out if you're willing to go SHE. Drawing a bow or climbing into a treestand won't be a problem either.
Despite my initial misgivings -- something that looks this good has too be too tight, right? -- I'm now sold. SHE's designers have done it right. All you have to do is buy the right size. Now, let's discuss the fabric, a 440-gram Hicount fleece shell, which is extremely soft, supple and quiet. Combine that shell with body-mapped 3M Thinsulate and ARC ArcticShield technology, a wind-resistant liner and waterproofing and you've got a do-it-all bowhunting wardrobe for any cold- or extreme-weather situation. Function? SHE has it covered with the little things we gals love.
The jacket has a neoprene inset storm collar, neoprene adjustable cuffs, full-length storm flap, three-piece storm hood, underarm zipper venting and rear slot for a safety harness. The pants feature dual bellows-style leg pockets for stashing all the stuff we girls like to keep nearby, such as lip balm, unscented sunscreen and game calls. The calf-length zipper comes in handy, as does the internal hidden leg cinch. We women might have said "shoot" -- or its equivalent -- when we tried on other brands of bowhunting clothing. Now, we'll be saying "SHE" and smiling while we do.
MSRP: $225 (jacket), $180 (pant)
CONTACT: SHE Outdoor Apparel, 281-448-4860; www.shesafari.com