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In 1993, I was in Toronto and stopped in at the Tilley Endurables store at Queen's Quay Terminal. I bought a blue travel blazer-one that is sturdy and has Velcro and zipper fasteners on inner and outer pockets. It has a hard finish and does not wrinkle.
I have worn this jacket on trips all over the world. When I go through airport security, I can seal my wallet, keys, cell phone, pen, etc., in the Velcro pockets; fold the jacket; and put it in the tray for its trip through the X-ray machine. At the other end, I know these personal items will be safe in the pockets, and the jacket will not be wrinkled.
Old L.L. Bean once said that he did not consider a sale complete until the item had worn out and the customer was still satisfied.
Such is the case with my 15-year-old Tilley Endurables travel blazer. At the end of May I flew to Los Angeles for the BookExpo America convention and wore the jacket. I noticed that the lining was torn, and it was time for a new one.
During some downtime in my hotel room, I went on the Tilley Endurables Web site and found the jacket, which you see illustrated here.
From the sales copy:
Savile Row meets Fort Knox in the Tilley Travel Blazer, our all-season dark navy blazer that is capable of protecting you from the elements and pickpockets with equal flair. Equipped with eight secured pockets, all either Velcro-sealed or zipper-closed for security and peace of mind. This classically styled blazer has a double back vent style and just a touch more room across the back and down the arms for comfort and fit.
The cost: $265.
I have a truly dreadful body-fat neck, short arms and a spare tire around my middle. When I shop at Boyds in Philadelphia, the salesman takes me to a back room, where he shows me jackets. I choose one, the fitter makes chalk marks on it and a week later I pick it up. It fits beautifully. I have no idea what size it is.
I looked at the Tilley size chart, which offered 13 choices from Regular 38 to Tall 52. Rather than guess at the size, I decided Tilley would know. So I clicked on "Contact Us" and found a form. Here is my e-mail:
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