Empire Canvas Works Logo     Traditional textiles. Timeless performance. Winter traveller wearing and Arctic Anorak.
     Hand crafted in Northern Minnesota.
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   Shell Layers Shell Layers:           Sewn right in Duluth, MN 
Arctic Anorak

The shell is the primary component of any foul weather system. Get it wrong and you'll suffer. Use a good one, and you'll go far. We make three types of outer layers for different types of weather. 

In the environment of deep cold, our Cotton Canvas tops and bottoms form the perfect boundary between the heat robbing wind, and the critical microclimate of warm air trapped inside. Our tightly woven textile is nearly impervious to the bitter winds that rob you of body heat. Unlike synthetic shells, the natural plant fibers allow even slight amounts of perspiration to escape, so you stay dry and comfortable. The Artic Anorak and Permafrost Parka are cut large so they won't fight against inner layers, yet their 6.3 ounce sq/yd textile is so feathery and soft you'll barely notice that you're wearing it. The Permafrost Pants have full side zippers so you can slip them on while wearing skis or snowshoes. Paired with either top, they form an excellent shell for bitter cold temperatures and hostile winds.

Our Oilskin is made from rugged 10 ounce Canvas, and coated with a special mix of oils and waxes that shed rain and slop like the back of a duck. Unlike synthetic laminates and coated plastic rainwear, the woven fibers of our Storm Cape and Field Coat still have small pores that allow perspiration to escape so you won't feel clammy. We also add large mechanical vents to enhance the flow of air when you need it the most. Oilskin isn't subject to delaminating, vulnerable to dirt or body oils, or at risk of melting when you brush the cook pot in camp. It works for years on end, and can be re-treated to regain full performance.

For everyday use, consider our canvas Heritage Shirt. It's a classic fit with real world function. Stuff a few layers underneath for cool temps, or wear it all summer to protect your skin from the sun. In a market full of high tech 'casual' clothes, our old school solution still works.

In a perfect world, your shell layer would last for decades. But some parts are bound to wear out. For that reason, every snap and grommet is set in reinforced webbing, all of our draw cords can be swapped out, and our hook and loop tabs are stitched through every adjacent layers to aid in their removal when they wear out. We include a small repair kit and instructions with most purchases so you can replace cord locks, repair zipper sliders, and replenish worn Velcro in the field. 

   
Permafrost Parka
Permafrost Pants
Designed for use with proper highland attire. Storm Cape

Field Coat

 Designed for use with proper highland attire. Heritage Shirt
 
   Insulation
Designed for use with proper highland attire. Wool Blanket Shirt  
Jackpine Vest
Camp Coat

 

   Handwear

 True North Mittens

The Big Mitt
 
   Footwear  

   True North Boots

Baby Booties
 

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