By now, you all know about Ball and Buck, and those that have pulled the trigger are well aware of their high quality products. I have quite a few Ball and Buck items; mostly pants and Hunter’s shirts, and they are all incredible. Ball and Buck has a cult following. Most people that buy anything end up buying everything in their catalog.
Again, the quality of Ball and Buck is second to none. Their product team is obsessed with every detail. All their stuff is made in the US, and and they go above and beyond to ensure that the fits are consistent. Functionality is key. The Ball and Buck team is made up of sportsmen and outdoorsmen, and it shows in their product catalog.
Ball and Buck recently released their Active Anorak +, and it’s a home run.
The first thing I noticed about the jacket is it’s weight, or more appropriately, the lack of weight. The jacket is constructed of dry-waxed cotton, and it weighs almost nothing. I would view this as strictly a rain jacket or a really light layer. Perfect for Spring or Fall, or as a rain jacket for a summer concert (aka Bruce Hornsby at the Botanical Gardens). The dry-waxed fabric provides ample protection from the elements. The colors are cool, available in olive (below) and khaki.
There are quite a few features that I like. The deep front zipper and buttons make the jacket easy to get on and off. There are two multi-use tool attachment d-rings in the front (perfect for fly fishing) and a back d-ring that can be used as a hanger or to hang a fishing net. The front pouch is big, but not too big. Good for your phone. My favorite feature is the length. I like that it isn’t too long, it sits just below the waist, which gives it a more refined look.
The jacket features side zippers for easy on and off. I like the sleeve construction: the cuffs are big, and cinchable with a velcro closure. The fit is consistent with the rest of the Ball and Buck line. If you wear a Large in their shirts, then you’ll wear the same size in the Anorak+. The fit is snug, but not tight.
No stone was unturned with this jacket. From the hood to the waist drawstring, the jacket has it all, and then drawstrings and velcro to ensure snug movement. I’ve enjoyed putting this jacket to work. I believe this lines up with exactly what you’ve come to expect from Ball and Buck: top quality for lifetime use.
They have great stuff. While I love the products/style/look – I can’t find the price tag of $348 on this jacket worth the item. I do value quality over quantity and nicer things, but I would prefer a similar or close to item from Patagonia, LL Bean, North Face, Marmot for a fraction of the price and not worry about taking it outside in the elements. This is purely just my opinion and like I said I do love it, just not most of the prices they have.
I have to agree with you on the price of $348 but thought I’d pass along that it looks like that is the “future MSRP” and they are doing a kickstarter for the jacket and you can get it for $148 if you are wanting it. https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ballandbuck/the-ultimate-active-jacket-w-vapor-dry-technology?ref=5jv2tw