SIMMS is Locked and Loaded to Address the Bass Market with
Premium Garments
Date: |
8/6/11 |
Location: |
Las Vegas, NV |
Admission: |
Buyers & Press
only |
Manufacturer: |
SIMMS |
Reviewer: |
Zander |
Introduction:
I've been using SIMMS products for years but mostly on the fly side. When
it comes to waders and fly vests I've always found that Simms makes a very high
quality product that can stand up to the harshest elements. This year Simms made
a major push into the bass fishing market with new garments that sport specific
features for freshwater conventional anglers yet showcase the same level of
quality and attention to detail the brand is known for.
Diane Bristol shows us
the new Prodigy Bib and Jacket, this Gore-Tex combo is designed for extreme
conditions
Prodigy Bib:
When foul weather approaches bass anglers need a stormproof garment that
still allows plenty of movement. Leveraging a lot of what Simms knows about
building premium waders the company is introducing the new Prodigy Bib. The
Prodigy is 100% waterproof and windproof and features Gore-Tex Pro Shell fabric
to take on the elements. This garment is rated for extreme weather and up to 22"
of rainfall per hour, now that is a serious downpour! The company actually
utilizes Gore's "Rain Chamber" which is a sophisticated outerwear testing
facility which simulates a variety of rain conditions using strategically
engineered nozzles positioned strategically within the chamber. The chamber is
capable of shelling out massive amounts of water to stress garments and can
replicate everything from a light drizzle to a wind driven torrent.
Mesh suspenders help
distribute the weight for all day comfort
The Prodigy Bib's active cut design offers a
non-binding fit for extra mobility while fishing. Articulated knees with stretch
fabric add to flexibility and comfort. Like a premium pair of waders the
adjustable mesh suspenders help distribute the weight, making it easier to fish
in the garment all day long. When fishing in very cold weather its sometimes
hard to keep your fingers warm and functional. The Prodigy Bib has microfleece-lined
hand warmer pockets with built in heat pack pockets, just what the doctor
ordered for those chilly mornings.
Large waterproof leg
zips make it easy for easy on easy off, even with shoes on
What use is a bib if you can't get into
it quickly in advance of the downpour? The Prodigy only weighs 50oz. and packs
down small so it will fit in the boat locker. When it comes time to don the
garment a waterproof center zipper makes it easy to get in the bib while
adjustable cuffs and 3/4 length waterproof leg zips make it quick for easy on,
easy off, even if anglers leave their boots on. The Prodigy Bib will be
available in January in
sizes ranging from Small to XXL and retails form $399.95.
A stowable storm hood
helps protect anglers from downpours
Prodigy Jacket:
To match the bib Simms is also releasing the Prodigy Jacket which makes use of the same 3 layer Gore-Tex Pro Shell Fabric and 100% nylon face
material. The Prodigy Jacket is also lightweight and weighs only 42oz. and is
rated for the same wet weather protection.
YKK zips are used for
superior corrosion resistance
A great deal of attention was placed on
making the garment easy to make quick movements in. To aid with casting and
fighting fish the shoulders and elbows are built with stretch fabric for extra
flexibility. There is also plenty of storage in this jacket with two large
capacity chest pockets and two microfleece lined hand warmer pockets.
A window on the left
arm allows anglers to tell time quickly
The jacket has a 3 point cinch stowable
storm hood and watertight adjustable cuffs. Simms uses high quality YKK nylon
zippers to minimize corrosion and improve performance and durability. One very
nice detail is a sealed transparent window that is positioned on the left sleeve
so anglers can tell time without having to fiddle with their sleeves. The
Prodigy Jacket will become available at the same time as the Bib and will come
in the same Steel Grey, and Delta Green colors as the bib as well as a the
company's popular looking "Fury Orange" pattern. This premium jacket will retail
for $499 dollars each.
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