I love my new agility jacket. It was made by Discovery Trekking Outfitters (DTO) in Campbell River, B.C. The fabric is Polartec Power Shield. Usually DTO makes them out of Polartec Wind Pro but given the cold winters of Ontario and that I would be training in an unheated facility it was decided that Power Shield would be warmer. It is definitely wind resistant as I tested it out at the Thanksgiving trial at Spot On and I was quite warm in my upper body (I just needed matching pants). I have yet to test out how water repellent it is in heavy rain though I expect it will be okay as the water beaded in a light rain. I chose the colour black which is hard to photograph but looks really sharp in person. The fabric stretches so I can move easily. Check out our run below.
I have been layering the jacket for added warmth though I have been noticing that I don't need as many layers as other people do.
One of the things that I was looking for in a jacket was the ability to wear it out shopping after training in a sandy and dusty place and still look relatively presentable. I often pick up Taari so am likely to get hair on me as well. The jacket has done a great job of staying clean.
I customized my agility jacket by asking for a hood, reflective piping, and a back pocket for toys. DTO did a great job and was very helpful. I was amazed at how well the hood fit. I could have easily worn it during the Thanksgiving trial when running with Taari but since I haven't worn a hood at a trial before I decided I should probably practice first with Taari. The back pocket for toys is very handy. I even stored my gloves in it.
The jacket looks great and I have had complements from neighbours and friends. I am even wearing it to work. No one has stopped me to ask me about the back pocket yet, though I tell the people I know what it is for before they get a chance to ask.
