If you’ve ever heard whispers about a fleece that can outlast a storm, or a smock trusted by professional hunters in the Southern Alps — chances are, they were talking about Swazi. Designed and tested in New Zealand, Swazi kit is uncompromising, field-proven and famously tough.
It’s not built for fashion or followers — it’s built for people who work hard outdoors, in all conditions, all year round.
From a Shed in Levin to Global Respect
Swazi was founded in 1994 by Davey Hughes — a hunter, explorer and self-proclaimed “bushman with a sewing machine.” Frustrated by the lack of decent hunting gear available at the time, he started designing his own garments in a small shed in Levin, a town at the base of New Zealand’s Tararua Ranges.
His goal? Simple: Build the best outdoor clothing in the world.
Fast-forward to today, and Swazi is trusted by conservationists, farmers, deer stalkers and mountain professionals everywhere — including right here in the UK, where wet, wild weather is just as demanding.
Function Comes First
Every Swazi garment is developed with input from people who live and work in the outdoors. From culling deer in sub-zero alpine winds to lambing in sideways rain, Swazi clothing is built to endure, not impress.
Key features include:
- Heavy-duty waterproof smocks – Including legendary designs like the Tahr XP
- Fleece tops and base layers – Insulating, wicking and hard to wear out
- Tailored-for-work fit – Long backs, big hoods, and movement-friendly cuts
- Made in New Zealand – With relentless attention to detail and quality
- Quiet, durable fabrics – Ideal for stalking and silent movement
Whether you’re crawling through cover, hiking ridgelines, or just tackling a grim day on the farm, Swazi keeps you protected without fuss.
Legendary Smocks & Layers
If there's one item that defines Swazi, it’s the Tahr XP Smock — an icon in its own right. With a full storm hood, extended length, waterproof protection, and enough room for layers underneath, it’s a go-to for serious country users.
Other standouts include:
- Swazi Nahanni Fleece – Ultra-warm, windproof and perfect as an outer layer or mid-layer
- Swazi Bush Shirt – Simple, tough, and utterly dependable
- Swazi Micro Shirt & Basewear – Lightweight but warming — the kind of kit you forget you’re wearing
Why We Love Swazi at New Forest Clothing
Swazi doesn’t cut corners. It’s not mass-produced, and it’s not trying to be trendy — it’s real gear, for real countryside users. If you’re the kind of person who values function, durability, and comfort above all else, Swazi should be on your radar. Once you’ve worn it, it’s hard to wear anything else.
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Meet the Creators - Morgan Alexander