How should an angler choose winter clothing?
Winter fishing is a favorite type of fishing in Russia. To fully enjoy the unity with the harsh nature, the angler should take care of choosing the right equipment. First of all, clothing for winter fishing should be waterproof, warm, while lightweight and have a thoughtful design.
What is important when choosing a winter jacket?
Most models of winter jackets for outdoor activities are made of so-called “smart” membrane fabric, which has two important qualities. First, it does not allow water to pass through, thus protecting both in rain and in heavy snowfall. Secondly, it brings internal vapor to the surface, which is especially important in active movement. This is how clothes maintain a comfortable microclimate.
Naturally, for fishing in winter, the suit should first of all protect from the cold. The insulator should simultaneously maximize heat retention and be very light, do not interfere with movements.
Each manufacturer of winter sportswear seeks to improve the materials of insulation, making them more and more lightweight.
What can be the insulation in a winter suit?
- Syntepon – now this material is used only in products of very low price category. It is durable, but its properties are inferior to more modern materials. After washing, it can lose up to half of its thickness. It is also not suitable for cold winters, the minimum temperature for which this material is recommended is -10.
- Tinsuleit is equal to down in its heat-saving qualities. This material consists of thin fibers that perfectly retain heat. Clothing on tinsulait is very thin, light and warm. Another positive quality – it does not deform when washing.
- Hollofiber, isosoft, fyberskin, etc.
These synthetic fillers are made from fibers that are shaped like a spring, ball or spiral. Such products retain their shape particularly well. - Goose down is the most popular among natural insulators. This material is durable, weighs little, perfectly restores its shape. The down of waterfowl does not allow moisture to be absorbed due to its water-repellent properties. From the minuses – it is a very allergenic environment, which is excellent for the reproduction of mites. In addition, down clothing takes a long time to dry.
What is the essence of the three-layer principle?
For maximum comfort during active recreation in the winter season, it is worth adhering to the principle of three-layering. The first layer is the clothing that is in direct contact with the skin. For sewing such underwear use either natural materials or specially designed synthetics, which retains heat, quickly removes moisture and dries for a short time. The second layer is an insulating layer. It keeps the heat out and keeps the cold in. And finally, the third protective layer is winter jackets and pants.
Winter accessories for maximum comfort?
Headgear for winter fishing, like a suit, can be made of membrane fabrics. For severe frosts, it is worth paying attention to such styles as earflaps or helmet hats. For their sewing use both natural and artificial fur with the use of “smart” fabrics and insulators. Balaclava will help to protect your face and neck from the wind. Such a simple accessory as a scarf, manufacturers are trying to modernize for maximum comfort during outdoor activities. For example, as an alternative to the more familiar scarves, you can give preference to a mask-gate with a bib, which is made of fleece. Some models of winter mittens are supplemented with a hinged top part, which simplifies the work with small parts of the equipment. Socks for fishing are also made of modern materials that are characterized by high wear resistance, quickly remove moisture and provide ventilation to the feet. Thermal socks, as a rule, either do not have seams at all, or they are located on the outside to prevent them from rubbing. Some models are even endowed with antibacterial properties, which helps to avoid the appearance of unpleasant odor during prolonged wear.
When choosing clothes for winter fishing, it is worth answering a few questions.
- What minimum temperature should it be designed for?
- How actively you move during fishing?
- What design elements are important to you personally?
With a competent choice of equipment, winter fishing will allow you to focus on hunting for a trophy, without being distracted by discomfort due to weather conditions.
What brands are popular among fishing enthusiasts?
Fishermen give preference to such brands, in whose models are most balanced low cost, simple comfortable design and high quality, thanks to which the clothes allow you to feel at ease in any weather. For example:
- Norfin brand suits;
- Russian brand Fisherman;
- Alaskan;
- popular and two more domestic brands – Novatex;
- as well as the brand Triton.
When choosing clothing for winter fishing, buyers primarily consider the price category, practicality and durability of the model, temperature conditions, as well as design, which is to the taste of the fisherman.
Author: Bob Nudd is an expert fisherman with over 20 years experience and winner of many competitions.
Choosing the right winter suit for fishing is a game-changer! I once froze my toes off in a cheap set. Invest in waterproof, insulated gear, and make sure it’s breathable. Comfort is key when you’re waiting for that big catch. Trust me, it makes all the difference!