Peter Storm

Peter Storm was originally created in 1954 by former Royal Marine Noel Bibby as a company supplying waterproof nylon rainwear.

They became the first company to provide 100% waterproof lightweight nylon rainwear, the first to weld together complete garments with no stitching, and the first with waterproof and breathable coatings with no 'pores'.

The company soon became famous for innovative design, helped by Bibby's experiences with the Royal Marines in World War II and his passion for outdoor clothing. Bibby helped to establish Peter Storm as a successful outdoor brand across the globe.

The British rights to the name were bought by The Outdoor Group after Bibby passed away in 1989.

Peter Storm branded clothes are now sold mainly through its chains of Blacks and Millets shops at sensible prices. A different line of clothing is sold internationally under the Peter Storm name by Outdoor Equipment.

Cagoules

Bibby was credited with inventing the cagoule (as an outdoor garment) in the early 1960s. A cagoule is a long waterproof garment with a hood, but no front zip. It is an over-the-head design, named after the French word for a cowl or monk's hood.

The simple Peter Storm nylon cagoule was originally made in England and over the pond in Ireland from the 70's onwards. It was a breathable, non sweating and originally pretty innovative pullover top made for outdoor and adventure use.

The original cagoules came in different lengths and cool styles, bringing a new slant to this classic piece of outerwear.

Anoraks for Awaydays

A highlight of the range, the Peter Storm Anoraks became hugely popular in the late 1970s and the early 1980s following the emergence of the football casual subculture, adopted quickly by match going youngsters, predominately up in the North of England. They were paired with Lois cords or bleached drainpipe jeans as well as the latest training shoes.

This look is captured in the 2011 movie Awaydays (based on the novel by Kevin Sampson) but the film makes use of replicas (produced by Adidas) as opposed to the real thing.

The look quickly evolved and other labels became more prominent, but the recent vintage craze has ensured that Peter Storm cagoules have and will remain an iconic piece of clothing for casuals and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

There were more iconic cagoules of the eighties. Izod Lacoste and Patrick both became famous for their efforts, but king among them were the Peter Storm cagoules, true icons of terrace style which became famous when worn by match going lads during the explosion of casual culture in the late seventies.

First Look: Storm Shield Anorak

Storm Shield by Peter Storm £20 from blacks.co.uk

Comfortable and packable waterproof anorak ideal for exploring in unpredictable weather, a modern take on an absolute classic, the waterproof packable cagoule.

The Peter Storm anorak features a soft, but tough nylon waterproof outer which provides unrivalled comfort and protection in wet weather. Elasticated cuffs and adjustable hem and hood will ensure the perfect fit to keep you comfortable outdoors. Matching Storm Shield trousers are available too.

With Storm Shield+ Technology for seam-sealed waterproof protection and breathability, the Storm Shield Anorak is an ideal option for wet hikes and many water sports.

It is breathable and quick drying so you can wear it all day long. With no inner lining it is good for swim training or other water sports that involve frequent swims.

Fabric: 100% nylon 210T main fabric with a PU coating.

Swim Test

by Luigi

While in the Philippines I went swimming in a red Storm Shield Anorak with matching blue pants, a simple, very comfortable, quick drying swimming outfit with good UV sun protection.

The fabric felt soft both wet and dry, on land or in the water. The generous cut allowed for plenty of ventilation. No need to wear anything underneath if it is too hot.

In the water it felt lightweight and pleasant, did not get in the way. It gently hugged my body as I moved forward, or floated loosely around when I stayed in one place.

Coming out of the lake, the water ran off quickly and I sat down for lunch. The anorak and pants felt good on my skin as they dried off in the breeze.

In summary, a cool swimming outfit for many water sports. It packs into a small place in my backpack, so I now carry it with me wherever I go, just in case I want to go swimming or it starts to rain.