What would you dress James Bond in for a hike/hillwalk?
sw17
Posts: 32MI6 Agent
What would James Bond wear on a hot weather hike? The question's mostly ridiculous: hiking is about comfort and safety over style. But Bond would probably not gravitate towards a neon green rayon tee or a tank top, and hopefully wouldn't ruin a nice suit, so there's surely some rules here.
If you were a costume designer for the ever-stylish 007, what outfit would you put together? Which pieces do you think Bond has worn that would work on a strenuous trek up a mountain?
If you were a costume designer for the ever-stylish 007, what outfit would you put together? Which pieces do you think Bond has worn that would work on a strenuous trek up a mountain?
Comments
I wouldn’t be wearing linen trousers for hiking—far too easily ripped by bushes, tree branches etc on the trail.
As for what Bond would wear hiking, I don’t think he’d be wearing linen (pants or shirt) either. He’s ex-military, I’d say he’d be wearing pieces more functional and actually built for wearing hiking or doing other outdoor activities. Proper hiking or combat type boots, some durable pants with pockets and a lightweight, and again durable, shirt, probably with a couple of chest pockets. As for headwear, I’d say a wide brim hat, probably boonie style. Not the most stylish ensemble, but perfect for the occasion.
I would expect literary bond to wear a short sleeve shirt, hard wearing technical trousers, combat boots and safari/waterproof jacket depending on the conditions and appropriate layers.
For cold weather I adore my military issues PCS fleece in navy or olive, I would think modern bond may have a couple of those handy too.
“This is a list of what I reckon you’ll need and the address of a big second-hand clothing store here in the city. Nothing fancy, nothing conspicuous – khaki shirt, dark brown jeans, good climbing boots or shoes. See they’re comfortable.”
I'm not sure if I should credit Ian Fleming or Matt Spaiser (or both?). I copied and pasted the above from here:
https://www.bondsuits.com/ian-fleming-for-your-eyes-only-1960/
The sweater / quilted gillet combo from FYEO is another one... I picked up a very similar Gillet by Barbour this past year and wore it hiking in Montana back in September.. along with some Boulder Gear winter hiking pants that are somewhat reminiscent of the NTTD commando outfit pants...
I do also agree that the Goldeneye assault vest, cargo pants, combo is a good theme for spring /fall hikes...
As for the linen suggestion above - not completely out of the question for a gentle outdoor greenway type environment walk.. in the warmer months.. As long as it wasn't anything really outdoorsy in terms of difficulty.. and if so - at least more rugged pants but a linen shirt isn't out of the question..
I think this would be a great cold weather hiking outfit!
https://sistraininggear.com
Definitely the Goldeneye Cuba outfit - or the FYEO literary outfit.
For an off-duty hike I could see Bond opting for high end technical gear. Something like Jottnar which is a small UK brand founded by a couple of former Royal Marine arctic warfare guys. Arcteryx Leaf (Law enforcement armed forces) in solid colours would probably be another option but I would go with Jottnar.
I think it would depend on the purpose of the hike. Is he on vacation, or is he on a mission?
For a simple pleasure hike where he's trying to be fashionable, or needs to be disguised as such: a long-sleeved military shirt or a short-sleeved camp shirt with two breast pockets, a pair of well-fitting jeans or corduroy pants, and some nice leather boots.
For a serious mission: a modern waterproof, breathable tropical weather uniform jacket in a solid base color like olive drab, khaki combat pants (preferably with built-in kneepads), and modern tropical weather hiking boots or shoes. Something inconspicuous to a casual observer but completely practical for military operations.
I’d say Bond would have a Spring/Summer Solden version of an outfit. Similar pants, but lightweight blend with some technical fabrics. TF would make them for a DC Bond. Then he’d wear a Sunspel t-shirt. Or, lightweight button up or polo with some pocketing for supplies needed. Danners or some special Crockett & Jones.
"Keeping British end up, sir." - RM "This never happened to the other fellow." - JL "I must be dreaming." SC
Mine too