Hoggs Smocks Buyer’s Guide

When you spend long days in the field, a jacket doesn’t always cut it. That’s where the Hoggs smock comes in. Built for farmers, shooters, stalkers, and walkers, it’s a pullover that shuts out the weather and keeps essential kit close at hand. From the everyday Struther to the hard-wearing Trilaminate and the versatile Green King II, each smock has its strengths. This guide shows where they shine — in the yard, on the hill, and by the riverbank — and what to look for in fabrics, features, and fit before you buy. Explore the full range of Hoggs of Fife smocks.

Choosing the Right Smock for Shooting, Farming & Walking

Hoggs smocks are designed with different users in mind. The right choice depends on how and where you spend your time outdoors, whether its on the peg, on the farm, out with the dog, or by the river. Each smock balances waterproofing, breathability, and durability in its own way.

Shooting & Stalking

A good smock for the field needs to be silent, weatherproof, and cut long enough to keep you dry when crouching or climbing. The Hoggs Struther Trilaminate smock has a tough three-layer build with a soft, non-rustle outer making it ideal for long days in the field. Large front pockets carry cartridges and binoculars, while side zips let you vent heat on the move.

Farming & Outdoor Work

Farm work demands durability first. Reinforced canvas outers and the Green King II smock stand up to mud, brambles, and daily wear. The pull-over cut keeps muck and rain from working through a central zip, while adjustable cuffs and hems keep draughts out when you’re on the yard from dawn to dusk.

Hiking, Dog Walking & Everyday Use

For long walks or wet mornings with the dog, comfort matters as much as protection. Breathable membranes prevent that clammy feel, and lightweight designs pack down when the weather clears. Side vents regulate heat, while deep pockets give quick access to leads, treats, or a flask.

The Hoggs Struther waterproof smock is a popular choice for dog walkers thanks to its breathable build and practical pocket layout.

Fabric Features That Matter

The strength of a Hoggs smock lies in the fabric. Each material is chosen to balance protection, breathability, and toughness, depending on how and where you use it. From triple-layered builds for stalking to lighter options for everyday work, knowing the difference helps you pick the right smock for your needs.

Waterproofing & Ratings

Hoggs smocks use fabrics tested for hydrostatic head. This is a measurement of how much water pressure the material can resist. A hydrostatic head rating of 10,000mm or higher is classed as fully waterproof and more than sufficient for typical UK conditions. (To find out more about Hydrostatic Head check out our guide) Sealed seams and storm flaps keep rain from creeping in at stress points. 

Breathability & Venting

Waterproofing is only half the story. Breathable membranes and mesh linings stop sweat from building up when you’re active. Side zips and underarm vents let you dump heat fast without stripping layers.

Quiet Fabrics

For shooting and stalking, silence is as important as staying dry. Soft-touch outers cut down on rustle, so you can move without spooking game. This makes Trilaminate smocks especially valued by keepers and stalkers.

Hoggs Fabric Options

• Trilaminate: A three-layer polyester/nylon build with a tough outer, breathable core, and soft inner. Strong, silent, and highly waterproof.
  
  
• Green King: Lighter and easy to clean, with reflective details. Good for work and general outdoor use.
  
  
• Reinforced Canvas: Heavy-duty fabric with nylon reinforcement. Suited to farming, forestry, and rough work. E.g. Hoggs Struther smock

Why Trilaminate Stands Out

Trilaminate smocks are the all-rounders: durable, highly waterproof, and breathable. Their soft, silent finish makes them the go-to for stalking and field sports where every step needs to be quiet.

For more on fabric ratings, see our guide to choosing a waterproof smock.

Hoggs Smock Models Compared

Hoggs offers several smocks, each with its own strengths. The Struther is the everyday all-rounder, the Trilaminate (also sold as Torness Long Smock) is built for stalking and hard weather, while the Green King II is a lighter, versatile option for work and leisure.

See the Fabrics in Action

Choosing between Trilaminate, Struther, and Green King is easier when you can see the difference. In this short video, we break down how each fabric feels, performs, and where it works best outdoors.

Fit, Sizing & Layering Tips

Hoggs smocks are designed with outdoor layering in mind. Most fit true to size, but if you plan to wear heavy jumpers or fleeces underneath, sizing up can give more room without restricting movement.

• Layering flexibility: A base layer, mid-weight fleece, and smock is usually enough for most UK conditions. In deep winter, go one size up for a thicker underlayer.
  
  
• Adjustable details: Cuffs, drawcord hems, and hoods can be tightened to seal out draughts and rain. These small features make a big difference in comfort.
  
  
• Mobility: Side zips not only help with venting but also make getting the smock on and off easier over bulky layers.

For accuracy, check the Hoggs size chart before buying.

Caring for Your Smock – Wash & Re-proof

A smock will only perform well if it’s looked after. Mud, sweat, and regular rain exposure all wear down the outer fabric and the water-repellent finish. Keeping it clean and topped up with re-proofing will extend its life.

• Washing: Use a gentle, non-biological detergent or a cleaner made for waterproof gear, such as the Nikwax Tech Wash. Avoid fabric softeners as they clog the membrane. Wash on a cool cycle and let it air dry.
  
  
• Re-proofing: When water stops beading on the surface, it’s time to re-proof. Spray-on or wash in treatments give targeted coverage; wash-in treatments are quick for full garments. The Nikwax TX Direct is ideal for reproofing smocks.

• Drying: Always air dry. Heat from a tumble dryer or radiator can damage waterproof coatings and taped seams.

Read more in our waterproof smock care guide.

Regular care keeps the fabric waterproof, breathable, and ready for field use year after year.

Closing Thoughts

A Hoggs smock is built for the countryside — whether you’re stalking on the hill, working long hours on the farm, or out with the dog in the rain. The right choice comes down to fabric, features, and fit. Once you’ve weighed up how and where you’ll use it, you’ll know which model suits you best.

Explore the full range of Hoggs of Fife smocks to compare styles, fabrics, and prices in one place.