For elite rugby players, life is often measured in training blocks, recovery windows, and matchday routines. But for Ollie Sleightholme, time away from the pitch matters just as much — especially when it’s spent outdoors.
An England international and Northampton Saints Winger, Ollie balances the intensity of professional rugby with a deep appreciation for the countryside. Whether it’s early starts, long days in the field, or simply switching off from the pressures of elite sport, the outdoors plays a big role in how he resets.
We sat down with Ollie to talk about life beyond Rugby, how he first discovered Swazi, and why reliable kit matters when the weather — and the day — isn’t predictable.
What is your name and your profession?
Ollie Sleightholme / professional rugby player
When you’re not following a training schedule or a matchday routine, where do you actually like to spend your time in the outdoors?
Mostly in the countryside around Northampton, either shooting or stalking.
You’re a professional rugby player, but clearly not the sit-still type — what first pulled you into the outdoors away from rugby?
I think it was probably the ability to get away from your day-to-day stresses of work, etc., and just allow yourself some time to not think or worry about things.
Do you remember the first time you wore Swazi gear? What made it stand out compared to other outdoor kits you’d tried?
Yes, I do — it was some bits that were given to me by Paul! (Swazi Ambassador Paul Childerley) They are just such good quality and keep you really warm. They are also so comfy, so they are easy to wear for long days out in the field.
What’s the bit of Swazi kit that lives closest to the door and gets grabbed first? Why that one?
The hood is my go-to. I think it’s just such a versatile piece that works for you in most weather conditions and has never let me down!
Ollie wearing his 'go to', and Swazi's Best Seller! The Swazi Hood.
How important is comfort when you’re outside all day — and how does the wrong clothing change the experience?
Yeah, very important. I think a kit that’s uncomfortable or not of good quality can really make the difference between having an amazing day and a miserable one! Wandering around warm and dry in Swazi gear makes it much more enjoyable.
If the Swazi kit had a position on the rugby field, what would it be — and why?
I think I would have to be a flanker — just reliable and tough.
Did your mindset as a rugby player help you get into things like hiking, shooting, fishing, or time in rough conditions — or was it a whole new learning curve?
I believe so, as rugby is a winter sport, so I’m very used to the elements, and also the mindset to achieve and accomplish things also transfers.
What sort of conditions do you usually find yourself in when you’re wearing Swazi — cold, wet, early mornings, long days?
All of the above. I think that’s the best thing about it — they have so many bits that allow you to thrive in all conditions.
What’s the one thing Swazi gets right that makes you keep reaching for it?
I think it would have to be the reliability of it. As I said, nothing from Swazi has ever let me down and I have full faith in it!
What would you say to someone who’s never heard of Swazi but lives an active, outdoors-heavy life?
You have to try it, as I don’t think anyone who tries it will ever be disappointed. Also, you’ll have a bit of kit for life!
What’s your idea of a perfect day outdoors, start to finish?
Early start, quick coffee and out the door with the family. Long walk in the fresh air, Swazi on because it just works, and I don’t have to think about it.
Late morning out rough shooting, taking it steady, enjoying the quiet. Pub stop on the way back for a cold beer, dogs flat out under the table. Home before dark, and a quick evening stalk as the sun sets. Perfect outdoor day.
Built for Long Days — On and Off the Pitch
For Ollie, the connection between rugby and the outdoors is clear: resilience, reliability, and being comfortable in tough conditions. It’s the same mindset whether he’s pulling on a Rugby Jersey or grabbing his Swazi on the way out the door.
That’s exactly why partnerships like this work. Swazi is built for people who don’t want to think about their kit — they just want it to work, every time, in every condition.
From winter training sessions to early-morning starts in the field, Ollie’s approach is simple: trust what you’re wearing, enjoy where you are, and make the most of the day.
