Winter Gear Report: The "Super Chunk" Wool Roll Neck
- Brian Robinson
- Nov 29, 2024
- 3 min read
Thanksgiving got me guys. See you next week.
PRO TIP: Take human bites. Ha.
A SINGULAR TAKE ON FASHION |
Winter Gear Report: The "Super Chunk" Wool Roll Neck
By Brian Robinson
Dateline: Late November, Sioux Falls, SD
It’s starting to get cold!
Winter’s leading edge has arrived in South Dakota. Last night’s weather report mentioned a 30% chance of light early morning snow. Sure enough, when I crawled out of bed and peeked outside, the first dusting of the season was on the ground. Sweet! Bring on more!
Next week, as the holiday season kicks off, temperatures are set to plunge into the low teens. Every night, we’ll stay cozy with a fire crackling in the fireplace. I love this time of year.
With the chill setting in, it’s officially time to bring out the heavy sweaters for my daily wear rotation. Let’s bundle up!
Please Meet “Super Chunk”
I recently came across the William Brown Project’s (IG: @wmbrownproject) Aran Roll Neck Sweater collaboration with Sunspel Clothing (IG: @sunspelclothing). Inspired by their work, I decided to share a similar piece from my private collection: a classic, 1950s-era Abercrombie & Fitch Scottish roll-neck sweater made of 100% hand-framed wool. I found this gem on eBay earlier this year.
Nicknamed “Super Chunk,” it’s by far the chunkiest sweater I own—a true cold-weather essential. Its thick construction makes it impractical for early fall but perfect once winter takes hold.
Super Chunk: The True Gem
This sweater is a beast—it weighs well over two pounds and has a timeless rugged style that spans generations. Whether you’re channeling Steve McQueen, Paul McCartney, Robert Redford, or Ernest Hemingway, a roll-neck sweater like this delivers a masculine, outdoorsy vibe.
On cold days, when the temperature is hovering just above freezing with little wind, with Super Chunk I can skip the coat entirely. Throw on Super Chunk and a knit cap and I’m ready to face the day.
While this sweater pairs well with outerwear—particularly under a traditional navy pea coat—the thickness of the wool can make layering tricky. If you go for this sweater-coat combo, I advise sizing up your coat by at least one or two sizes to prevent the sweater from bunching up in the sleeves and shoulders. You will probably need to try on several coats to find the perfect fit.
Pro Tip: Avoid the Itch
Super Chunk is made from old-school hard-core British wool. The heavy, rough fiber can be itchy on the neck, so I always try to wear a thin cotton or silk polo neck shirt underneath. This adds comfort by placing a layer of thin material between my skin and the scratchy wool. For those looking for a softer alternative to old school Scots wool, newer lambswool or merino versions of the sweater eliminate much of the issue.
What Is Hand Framing?
The label on my sweater proudly reads “Hand Framed in Scotland.” But what does that mean?
A hand-framed sweater is made using a hand-operated knitting machine, or “hand frame.” This technique blends craftsmanship with mechanical precision. The artisan manually guides the yarn and needles, ensuring even stitches and intricate patterns that aren’t easily replicated by fully automated machines.
Luxury knitwear brands still use hand framing because it delivers a unique, high-quality product. While the number of hand framers dwindled in the late 20th century, the recent resurgence of artisanal knitting and the interest of younger generations in sustainable craft skills offer hope for the survival of this traditional technique.
Where to Find Your Own Super Chunk
If you’re looking to add a sweater like Super Chunk to your wardrobe, here are some recommendations:
Sunspel Clothing – A UK brand. Their Scottish lambswool Aran Roll Neck William Brown collaboration is available on their website, ($565, https://us.sunspel.com).
Pike Brothers – A German brand. I love their 1923 Turtle Neck, made in Portugal from soft merino wool (€199, www.pikebrothers.com).
Ralph Lauren – They often include versions of this classic in their collections. I found one, “imported” listed at Saks ($298 at www.saksfifthavenue.com)
For budget-conscious shoppers, vintage options occasionally pop up on eBay. My own Super Chunk was a lucky find at $56.46. Just keep in mind that finding the right size and condition can be a challenge. Be patient and good luck! Happy Thanksgiving and enjoy your winter wardrobe!
Brian Robinson is the owner of C Woodcock & Co, a Travel & Safari outfitter specializing in vintage inspired gear for the global traveler. Follow him on IG @cwoodcockandco and “Join the Journey.”
Over 35 years, working in industry and government, I’ve curated my experience in a way that brings a singular perspective to my pursuits.
Comentarios