February 15, 2012
By Diana Rudolph
I received this jacket and bib combination about 4 months ago and am more than impressed. I will admit that I was initially a bit unsure about the overabundance of Simms logos on the jacket, but I have no problem being a human billboard if I stay dry and warm. I live in the rain forests of the Pacific NW and there is no better place to test this gear then in my backyard. To say it is wet here is a serious understatement. It is down- right saturating. No sense in ruining a perfectly nice, soggy afternoon with inferior gear. I have worn this suit fishing inshore and offshore, mushroom hunting, chopping wood and wandering in the woods with confidence and at the end of the day I am dry.
Constructed with Pro Shell GORE-TEX fabric, the jacket is extremely substantial and durable. The articulated stretch panels on the elbows provide mobility and comfort, especially when wearing multiple layers. The front zipper is waterproof and corrosion resistant. There are two lined hand warmer pockets and several other exterior and interior pockets for nippers, tippet and/or a fly box. Although the zippers on these pockets are water resistant, not waterproof, they stay very dry when zipped shut. The hood provides a great deal of coverage and cinches down nicely. I absolutely love the high, lined collar. When traveling on a boat at high speeds, it doesn't flap me silly and protects my neck and face from windburn.
The bibs are very comfortable and adjust easily. They also have hand warmer pockets, in addition to waterproof thigh pockets. Thigh pockets are perfect for keeping a pair of pliers or knife tucked away. They are easy to access and stay shut. The pants are roomy and can be secured with the attached Velcro cuff. A leg zipper makes peeling them on and off with shoes or boots a snap.
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The award-winning Simms Pro Dry GORE-TEX suit is available in sizes S-XXL. Women should scale down their size accordingly, but leave room for layering. The combo retails for $899.95. Trust me, this is a small price to pay for staying warm and dry. I have burned through A LOT of rain gear, but this suit is built to last and outperforms anything I have ever worn or tested. Highly recommended. www.simmsfishing.com .
