11 years difference

A lot of love here ️

Great shirt, incredible fabric.

When I signed up here waaaaaaaay back in 2011 and attended my first (I think it was IH’s second) party, a few things were different for me.

My son was 6, he’s now 18.
My waist line was two tag sizes smaller.
I had no idea how to size or shrink my jeans.
My work was a whole lot easier, and much less time consuming.

It’s been great reading the forum this last couple of days, awesome to see the brand and community thriving and still growing and amazing to see and read so many people getting the same welcome, laughs and love after all these years.

I didn’t sign up when the forum changed, life got in the way, I couldn’t wear denim all the time like I used to, people I knew didn’t post as much and I drifted away from the whole denim scene.

Reading the forum, looking at product pages, looking back on old posts has made me feel like a man out of step with time. That’s not a bad thing at all, just great to see how much Iron Heart and the community has grown since those early days.

The ramblings of an old denim head this conclude

Just getting dressed, put my 21oz NOLOT on, grabbed the original 888 tee, reached for my super black CPO……..you know that scene from the last Nolan Batman movie where he’s all messed up, knee hurts, back hurts etc…… and he puts on the Batman suit again? Reminded me of that

Obligatory motorway services stop for Maccys breakfast.

Apologies for being typically unfashionably late, I sent my form back.

We will be there for the day on Saturday, looking forward to seeing everyone. It’s been too long.

Well, I’m packed.

We got back home late last night after a fantastic day with all those who could attend.

Just want to say a huge thank you to @Alex and all the crew for their hard work and incredible hospitality.

Great to see old friend and meet a few folks I had not had the pleasure of knowing before.

For me personally it was a welcome return after a period of absence. I’m not saying that I’ll be here every day going forwards, but let’s just say I will be around more often than not.

Shout out to old mates @louisbosco @neph93 @swiss-jeansfreak @DrPat, always a pleasure lads.

Also to the gents I had either not met before, or only very briefly @Matt @T4920 @Kasi @goosehd .

I know we spoke to a lot more folks, but my memory for names and forum names is shocking, safe to say everyone was great.

Lastly in this “Oscar Winners” speech of a post, @Madame-Buttonfly @Giles , so good to see you again, I’ll leave the next meet up arrangements with Pam as you know I am fucking useless.

Morning shower before setting off to the party, the towel choice is very appropriate.

Full on Wtaps for a tea ceremony in Kyoto.

Love Johnny Marr ️

Ok, so since saying I was ok with what I had I have been on a bit of a second hand shopping rampage ‍️‍️

Current collection now stands at…..

Atom LT 24k - synthetic insulation - black/ gold
Thorium AR 24k - down insulation - black/ gold
Proton LT - wind-stopper fleece- black
Gamma MX - soft shell - black/ green
Zeta SL - Gore-tex shell - grey
Solano Jacket - wind-stopper - black
Delta LT Jacket - grid fleece - blue
Kyanite LT jacket - light weight - black
Kyanite AR - Hoodie - blue
Cormac pants - light weight - black
Wool cap - black
Cross body bag - black

Ignore my last post, I’m a big fat liar. Just bought a Proton because it was on sale ‍️

@nrtphotos , that’s quite sad to hear, but I guess when a brand which is known for quality and dependability lets those things slip then this is what happens.

I haven’t experienced anything bad myself yet, in fact my Zeta SL which all the Redditors say is “trash” due to using Paclite Pro has stood up for almost three years of use now.

For me, I’ll enjoy what I have and most likely look for bargains on the secondary market of older items if I want to get anything else.

I love mine for travel, the durability and full clam shell opening is great.

Just replaced my old Goruck GR-1 after 8 years of daily use, and even then it’s still usable. I passed it on to my son and it will probably still be in use long after I am, amazing quality back packs.

Reddit is a toxic cesspit of incels and trolls.

(But also contains lots of handy information)

@Anesthetist , that looks great, very stylish and subtle.

@PJ , interested how the LEAF version compares to the standard. I’m guessing much more durable for military applications.

@nrtphotos I think you have to be quite careful about what Arcteryx items you buy these days in terms of quality. After my Gamma MX purchase today, which is made in Canada, I’m interested in looking back at some vintage stuff.

The brand is not too well known where I am (in the UK) so its still more of an “if you know, you know” thing over here.