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Clothing Review
(Built for Fly-Fishing) |
A jacket built for the worst conditions, when fishing is typically at its
best...The Simms Guide Jacket
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Date: |
2/21/02 |
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Tackle type: |
Clothing |
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Manufacturer: |
Simms |
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Reviewer: |
Buzz |
Total Score: 8.75
Introduction: Anyone who has fished in horrible weather knows that it can
be a very miserable experience. The problem is that no matter how good of
fishermen we are, we cannot control the weather. The best thing we can do is to
try and cope with mother-nature, and to be prepared for whatever she might throw
at us. In looking for an all weather outer jacket, there are a number factors
you should consider. For those who want to conquer the elements to fish, Simms
introduces the Gore-Tex Guide Jacket, designed to keep you warm and dry on the
river while others will be running for shelter.
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Simms Guide
Jacket Specs |
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Material |
Gore Tex XCR fabric |
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Hood |
Roll up |
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Sizes Available |
Small, Med, Large, X-Large, XXL |
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Color |
Forest Green, Khaki |
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Fastening (Adjustment) |
Velcro, Retractors |
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Price as tested |
$350.00 |
Impressions:
At first look at the Simms
Guide Jacket I couldn’t help but notice its high quality construction. The
jacket is comprised of Gore-Tex XCR fabric, which is 25% more “breathable” than
traditional Gore-Tex materials. Many jackets can keep you dry from the outside
elements, however this jacket allows your body’s sweat and moisture to escape,
thus keeping you drier longer. The main zipper is so big and strong, it looks
like it should belong on a wetsuit, not a fishing jacket. Anyone who has ever
had a zipper break knows that this is a big plus.
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The Simms
Guide Jacket features the new Gore-Tex XCR which is 25% more breathable then
regular 3 layer Gore-Tex |
As far as
storage is concerned, I am still discovering hidden pockets that I didn’t know
the jacket had when I purchased it. You can actually fish with all your gear
without having to wear an outer vest. A large back pocket can also come in
handy for storing extra layers, or whatever you wish.
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The Guide
Jacket has a roll up storm hood |
Real World Test:
There are 2 features this jacket has that will absolutely amaze
you. First is the two built in retractors that can hold your
pliers and clippers. You won’t have to buy those cheap after-market retractors
that put holes in your clothing. These retractors also hide when not in use.
Second: Watertight stretch Gore-Tex cuffs that adjust to cinch around
your wrist. This minimizes water entry when casting, and landing big fish.
Simms patents both of these features, so don’t expect to see them on any other
jacket.
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A cornucopia
of pockets provide plenty of storage |
The roll-up
storm hood, and waist drawstring are a couple of nice finishing touches that put
the final signature on the coat. I have used this jacket in the pouring rain,
with only a small thermal layer over my skin. The result was that I fished all
day while I saw many other people heading for their cars. They looked at me
like I was crazy for staying on the river, but little did they know the
environment wasn’t effecting me like it was them.
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Two hidden
retractors hide behind (not inside) the pockets |
At the end of the day I had a fantastic fishing
experience, landed fish on waters that normally would have been under higher
pressure due to more anglers, got great pictures, and still went home dry. The
Simms Guide jacket not only shielded me from the elements but allowed me to keep
fishing, and not just salvage a day of fishing, but make it a great day
out...regardless of the weather.
Ratings:
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Simms Guide
Jacket Ratings (?/10) |
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Construction/Quality |
You won’t find a better
made jacket on the market. Gore-Tex XCR fabric is more breathable and
waterproof than any other material known to man |
9.5 |
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Performance |
Does exactly what it is supposed to do...and
after hours of rain and splashing water...you stay totally dry! |
9.5 |
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Price |
You might want to get a night job to pay the
350.00 for ultimate Simms protection |
6 |
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Features |
2 features on this jacket
are patented. 1) Gore-Tex Water tight adjustable cuffs, 2)
Built in Retractors. No you won’t see anyone copying this jacket |
9.5 |
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Design (Ergonomics) |
A great chemistry of every
necessity so you don’t have to stop fishing just because nature tells you.
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9 |
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Application |
Don’t look at this jacket
if you fish once in a while, or if you only fish on sunny days. This jacket
is made for those die-hard fishermen that will chase fish in rain, sleet,
and snow. |
9 |
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Total Score (avg) |
8.75 |
Pluses and Minuses:
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Plus
Minus |
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J
Great Construction |
L
Price |
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J
Good Durability |
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J
Top Notch patented Features |
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Conclusion: If
you fish all seasons you may want to consider this jacket because it is the
benchmark for every other waterproof jacket. However, if you look outside to
see if it is a good day for fishing, you might want to consider other choices.
This jacket will allow you to minimize your internal layers, and stay as dry and
warm as ever. When conditions are lousy, you will stay comfortable. If you are
wearing the Simms Guide model Gore-Tex jacket when conditions are lousy and the
bite is on, you will probably be the only person on the river....and ultimately,
the only one landing them.
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