As Winter’s boney hand slowly squeezes the heat from a slowing world, the mind naturally drifts to the make-up one’s wardrobe. For the fragile threads of spring and summer will no longer do – something more hale and hearty, a fitting guard against the cold, is what’s required. And there are few items more down-to-earth and vigorous than the Submariner’s jumper. In a fashion world cut through with hyperbole, and embellishment, this is a bona-fide classic – with the roll-neck version having been a mainstay of British Royal Naval life through both world wars. A duty it continues to perform to this day.
It is easy to see why the jumpers made the leap from navy issue to Civvy Street. Whilst originally bought as military surplus – due to their affordability, warmth, and ruggedness – they were also stylish. So it was only a matter of time before they were adopted by the garment industry. Unfortunately, like many things in the world of fashion, style can often ride roughshod over substance. Leaving the customer with an echo of the garment, but not the reality. Fortunately the promise of this selection in met in actuality.
Outdoor Knitwear: ‘Das Boot’ Submariners Jumper – £92.25
In a slight departure from the classic roll neck jumper, this German submariner style quarter zip seaman’s sweater looses nothing in comparison with the British alternative. Made in the UK with 3-fold 100% pure new wool, especially treated to prevent shrinkage, the jumper has a deep hem and turn-back cuffs with a thumb slot, and internal reinforcement patches.
Realm & Empire: Merino Submariner Roll Neck – £130
Based upon original Royal Naval specifications, and made in 100% merino wool, this burly roll neck sweater would have been an essential part of the kit issued to personnel undertaking WWII Arctic Convoys. It’s made in a true knit plain knit construction with a 1×1 rib on the collar and cuffing, with shoulder seams reinforced by woven tape.
Carrier Company: Fisherman’s Jumper – £85
Established by Tina Guillory in 1995, this small Norfolk based company utilise a team of artisans who hand make all their products within 10 miles of the business home in Wighton. And this Fisherman’s jumper, as you would expect, is no exception. With a traditional rib stitch for extra warmth, and made with 100% pure wool, the sweater ticks all the right boxes.
Nigel Cabourn: Reversible Roll Neck – £295
The reversible roll neck pullover is an updated version of a sweater designed in tribute to George Lowe, who was one of the members of the original 1955 Trans Antarctic expedition. This latest model is made in Scotland from 8-gauge wool, and is reversible, with one side showing the reverse colour on the rib of the neck, cuffs and hem.
Silvermans: RN Submariners Sweater – £69.99
Produced in the UK by the government manufacturer, these 100% wool sweaters are made to the same design as the original wartime and early RN jumpers. These are currently issued to Royal Navy submarine crew, and made to the latest Government specifications, with genuine reinforcement patches inside the neck.
Written By Matthew Geraghty