After 30years of business, FreeCountry had not exactly a well-known brand. They have typically been found at retailers such as BassPro, Costco, & Kohl‘s. However, through surveys, FreeCountry established that their customer base appreciated the products but did not always know it was FreeCountry they were wearing.
The company realized it was time for a refresh. To bring the branding to the forefront, and really drive home what FreeCountry stands for. To make this big splash FreeCountry launched a new website in October with a new logo and fresh look. They are aggressively trying to promote their value proposition: no sacrifice for quality & value. Even though they are not the leaders in new technology, they are able to provide quality products with some of the technologies of the highest end brands, at a fraction of the price.
In addition, they have been a silent leader in their category and built a customer base around their extensive size range. Offering petite through plus sizes, families are able to outfit everyone in a one-stop shop. This size inclusivity allows every income level to have access to great quality gear.
I was fortunate enough to gain exposure to FreeCountry by testing three of their winter pieces: Champion Packable Down Jacket, Crescent Cubic Dobby Softshell & Swift Softshell Ski Pant. Let’s see how the testing of each faired after a few days on the slopes, hiking, and casual around town wear.
Champion Packable Down Jacket:
A wonderful winter layer well with a balanced blend of warm & feminine fashion. It‘s compact nature makes for great portability to take anywhere.
Pros:
- Comfortable: feels so air light it felt like I was not wearing a jacket
- Packability: packs very small into it‘s own pouch. I was able to stuff it into my tote/purse to have available after dark when the temperatures plummet
- Fashion: attractive diamond stitch pattern
- Colors: great color selection that is not too bold, but playfully conservative
- MSRP: $100! Other down jackets run $150-$300
Cons:
- Short sleeves: I do have long arms, but the sleeves seemed a bit short
- Fit: I am a pretty petite build and the fit felt a bit wide. However, made for great layering with a thick sweater or fleece underneath
- No bottom cinch: I really like jackets that have a bungee cinch at the bottom to help keep out wind & cold -personal preference
- Warmth: not quite as warm alone as I would have liked. Great jacket for spring & fall hikes, daywear, or in colder temperatures with the Crescent Cubic Dobb Softshell jacket
Crescent Cubic Dobby Softshell Jacket:
A great shell with wind and water resistance to keep you prepared for all weather.
Pros:
- Wind & water resistance: suitable for most climates
- 3- pockets: two zippered for hands, and one sleeve zip for keys and/or credit cards -I was sold with the sleeve pocket. I hate not having a place for credit cards/ID
- Butterpile lining: think fleece, oh so soft & warm for the core and hands
- Cuff adjustment: seals up the wrists for ultra-warmth
- Fun Fact: we lose a lot of heat through our wrists because the blood vessels are close to the surface. Hence why people roll up sleeves when warm and pull them down over their wrists & hands when cold
- Detachable hood: sometimes I just want to look good, not carry around a hood
- Stretch: Having wide shoulders I really appreciate the extra stretchy body
- Warmth: Warm! Did not have to layer as much as expected
- Price: $100: steal of a deal for a winter jacket
Cons:
- Short Sleeves: as previously mentioned I have long arms
- Fit: A touch wide, great layering with the Champion Packable Down jacket or a fleece
- No bottom cinch: I really like jackets that have a bungee cinch at the bottom to help keep out wind & cold. Again, personal preference
Swift Softshell Ski Pant:
Feminine boot cut softshell ski pants made for the active lady. Cozy, yet technical, yet great for the slopes & apré¨s ski.
Pros:
- Water Resistant: my base layers stayed dry even after multiple falls
- Wind Resistant: performance kept me warm even at the top of a windy mountain
- Gaiter cuffs: very good grip! Zero snow up my pants after plunges into deep powder
- Micro Fleece Lined: always comfy and suitable for cold days with thin long johns, or warmer skiing with only shorts
- Style Fit: ladies cut with curves in the right places
- 3 -Pockets: storage! Two zip hip pockets for hands, one small snap closure for easy access to Chapstick
Cons:
- Fit: waist is a bit big even with the internal velcro adjustment system. But again, I am a pretty small lady and adding a belt made a difference
- Boot Hem: would have liked a little stiffer & aggressive material in the event I crossed skis. I hate cutting snow pants with my edges
FreeCountry‘s beautiful blend of aspirational & attainable products makes it a brand I would recommend to individuals and families looking to outfit everyone. I appreciate their focus on function and fashion without breaking the bank. They care about their customers and have listened to their needs & wants. Check your closet, chances are you‘ll find a little FreeCountry.