Versatile Storage Power: Foxfire's Guide Vest for Summer Mesh & Winter Fabric Use

Having one versatile vest is handy for the changing seasons. In particular, types that allow you to switch between mesh and fabric via a zipper easily adapt to temperature changes. In the warmer seasons, if you make use of the vest's pockets without an outer layer, you can avoid the hassle of dangling small items from your shoulders or neck.
 
When you visit an outdoor specialty store, you will find a wide variety of vests from "Foxfire," which are easy to incorporate into everyday wear. This spring and summer, the newly updated classic model, the "Guide Vest," is attracting attention. We visited TIEMCO Ltd. to talk with Hisaki Matsuo from the Outdoor Division's Planning and Development Department.

I wonder how much of the fabric's texture can be conveyed through photographs. When you hold it in your hand, it has a softness that feels like a natural material, both in appearance and touch. Yet, it boasts the strength, water-repellency, and quick-drying properties suitable for outdoor use.
 
"The first model of this vest was commercialized in 1998. I joined the company to create a fishing vest because I love fishing, and after creating a satisfactory fishing vest, I designed it as a trekking vest. Later, I improved it to allow the back fabric to be removable via a zipper, transforming it into a mesh."

"The arrangement of pockets has not changed much. I wanted it to be easy to use for those who have loved and replaced it over the years. While maintaining the basic structure, the material has been completely reviewed this time. While ensuring durability, water-repellency, and quick-drying, we switched to a fabric with a more natural feel for the new release."

The ability to access various pockets while walking is an advantage of a trekking vest. Unlike pouches or sacoche with straps, the pockets are stable and do not shift, allowing for easy movement—this is a significant benefit.
 

In the outdoor environment, temperatures tend to drop in the morning and evening. While it may not be necessary to take out warm clothing from your backpack, being too lightly dressed can feel uncomfortable. By wearing a vest, particularly to keep the abdomen warm, it becomes invaluable in the mountains. Enhancing the back's ventilation with mesh reduces the likelihood of overheating or sweating during mountain excursions.

"While fishing vests typically have more pockets, each with a defined purpose, trekking vests have a higher versatility for everyday wear. The pockets are positioned appropriately with a bit of looseness, making them easy to use for outdoor activities and applicable in daily life."

"The fishing vest has a shorter length. When standing in the water wearing waders, which are waterproof pants that cover up to the waist, the hem of the vest is designed to avoid contact with the water. Additionally, the weight can reach several kilograms when storing fishing gear in the vest's various pockets, so cushioning materials are included in the collar to reduce strain."
 
For trekking, a shorter length can lead to a cold torso, so a vest that extends to the waist is logical. Since the main gear is carried in a backpack, it's unlikely that the weight of the vest becomes a burden. A simple trekking vest is suitable and can also be worn casually.

"Founded in 1969, TIMCO originally imported and sold fishing gear and apparel, but it became clear that we needed to create original products that fit Japanese fields, scenes, and physiques, leading to the creation of the brand 'Foxfire' in 1982.
 
"For example, even in Japan’s stream fishing, the needs differ between upstream, midstream, and downstream fishing. We want to apply the polished techniques developed for these needs into various scenes, such as trekking vests and photographer vests, ensuring products meet criteria like functionality, pocket work, and durability. That’s why our lineup is so rich."
 
At outdoor specialty stores, you may find a vest that suits you among the diverse options from "Foxfire." I recommend checking out products starting with the classic "Guide Vest."