ABOUT
Stormgard is a British heritage brand that was established shortly after the First World War. In 1921, Mr. A. Whyman, rainwear manufacturer and makers of Stormgard clothing, occupied premises in Leeds and during the 1930s would become one of the largest rainwear manufacturers in the city. The brand soon became synonymous with specialised fabrics such as enamelled oilskins that were hugely popular with the cyclist and especially the motorcycling community, forming a dedicated riders club named "Ye Ancient Order of Neverwets". A decade later, in 1931 Stormgard began producing specialised clothing for the Air Ministry; most notably, flight suits.
In the late 1930s, Whyman shifted it’s manufacturing base from Leeds to Gateshead, occupying the 'Stormgard Works' building at the Team Valley Trading Estate through the Second World War, when it became a designated factory. In 1947, at a trade fair in Earls Court London, the company advertised itself as 'Manufacturers of Raincoats, Waterproofs, Sportswear, Leather Clothing, Suits, Overcoats, Golf Jackets, Flannel Trousers, Sports Jackets, Motor Cycle and Motor Clothing'. Having probably over-extended its operations, A. Whyman was bankrupt in 1953 and Stormgard remained dormant until 2016 when it was discovered by a British heritage brand specialist, formerly Brand Manager at Mackintosh and Creative Director at Globe-Trotter.
Stormgard relaunches with the iconic Model 51 (M51) Parka. Manufactured in England at a North London factory employed by Savile Row; using a specialised ripstop camouflage that is natural, lightweight, water repellent and inspired by Stormgard Works manufacturing for the military during WWII. The line of the coat has remained unchanged since 1951; so that it is cut full over the chest and shoulders to lend a softer hang, or 'drape' for a modern, voluminous silhouette.
