It has been such a pleasure watching Duck Head thrive over the past few years. Having hit their stride, they asked my opinion on a few of the new Fall pieces. A box showed up, and with great anticipation, I was able to touch/feel/try on, and I’m excited to give you the first (of a couple) reports.
Now – let’s level set. The New Duck Head isn’t the Duck Head of the 80’s. However, it’s not a huge departure. They’ve gotten much smarter with their fits, and have evolved the style to fall more in line with the wants and needs of guys living in 2023. Classic looks. Smarter fits. Good price point. What I’m seeing from them is a thoughtful offering that transitions well from day to night, office to casual, and now in the field.
Here’s round one:
The SLIM FIT GOLD SCHOOL CHINOS are buy and large the best OTR chinos for guys looking for a true slim fit. These feature a medium rise and a 7.5-8″ leg opening which are perfect for loafers, Chelsea boots/Blundstones, or New Balance. The fabric is super soft and features just enough stretch to notice. These are a wash > dry for five minutes > hang to finish type of pants, and they look great.
The CANTER MERINO WOOL PULLOVER sweater is a professional option that works great in the office or at happy hour. The weave shows depth, and the leather accents give it a refined look. And the price point (under $140) is very digestible. High-value prop.
I have loved corduroy 5-pockets since way back when Levi’s 514s were the go-to option. Duck Head figured it out with the HOLSTON CORDUROY 5-POCKETS. These are exactly what the doctor ordered. They feature what I’d call an ‘updated classic fit’. They aren’t slim, but aren’t wide (at all). The corduroy fabric is substantial but not heavy, and moves well.
And the STRIPED SOCKS? You all know I adhere to #sanssocks, but if I’m going to wear some, these are the ones I’m sporting. I want 10 pairs.
Finally (for today). I’m very excited about the FIELD CANVAS BRIAR PANTS. What a GREAT addition to the already stellar lineup. Duck Head took their Field Canvas and constructed mid-weight briar pants that are perfect for the Georgia Fall/Winter/Early Spring climate. The field canvas is tough, and the fit is refined. No extra bulk for long walks in the field. These are coming with me to Kansas in December to chase roosters.
More to come….
The rise on the new Duck Heads is just unbelievably short. Whereas All American Khakis, Jack Dalton’s, and other traditional style makers of chinos allow plenty of room in the crotch and to sit at the natural waist, these Duck Heads seem designed and destined to hang off of one’s hip bones. Duck Heads of old were not so encumbering.
Glad I’m not the only one. I was so glad to see DH is back, but very disappointed when I tried them on. Everything else about them are great, but the rise on a size 34/32 is an uncomfortable 9.75″. I did buy a DH t-shirt and hat for nostalgia sake.