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Apparel Review


 

Simms Challenges the Notion Gore-Tex Is the Only Viable Rain Fabric

 

Date: 12/17/17
Tackle Type: Apparel
Manufacturer: Simms
Reviewer: Cal






Total Score: 8.25 - EDITOR'S CHOICE AWARD

Introduction:
Anglers seeking protection from the elements have a dizzying array of choices but one brand remains the gold standard. Simms has been making fishing specific apparel since 1980 and they've been doing it with high end fabrics and designs catering mostly to the fly fishing industry. Several years ago, they turned their attention to the bass market. Their resulting success is the primary reason we now see so many other manufacturers in this same market space.

 


Up until now, the Simms gold standard has come at a price similar to the precious metal.

 

Unfortunately, up until now, the Simms gold standard has come at a price similar to gold with their top end Pro Dry suit now retailing for over $1,000 for the complete suit. Recognizing the need to offer a more affordable suit with similar, top end styling, they're now offering a suit they believe is up to that challenge. Here's our look at the new Challenger rain suit from Simms.

 

Simms Challenger Rainsuit Specifications

Material 2-layer Toray Fabric
Sizes S - 4XL
Colors Fury Orange, Black, Cobalt, Hex Camo Boulder
Features Fleece Lined Pockets, 3-Point Adjustable Hood, YKK Vislon zipper, dual draw cord adjustable hem on jacket, dual kill switch anchor points
Origin Made in China
MSRP $199.95 each Bib and Jacket : $399.90 total suit price

 

Quality/Construction: How did Simms bring the cost of their suit down so far? By building a new garment from 2-layer Toray Fabric instead of Goretex.

 

While the Goretex brand is certainly well know and well regarded for its water shedding capabilities, it is by no means the only water proof game in down. The Toray Fabric Simms is using for their Challenger suit is designed to deliver similar water resistance but without the hefty price tag.

 


Introducing the Challenger rainsuit built for more real world budgets.

 


How do you test a rainsuit when the lakes are too swollen from recent rains to allow boating? You hit the streets and run errands in the suit!

Real World Tests: Of course, how a garment feels in hand and how it performs out in the elements are two different things. How ironic it was I received my rain suit just in time for the deluge California received this past winter only to be sidelined because it rained too much to get out on the water to fish!


Priced at only $400 for the entire suit, the Challenger offers excellent protection.

 


Built with pockets at every turn.

Next Section: Dry on and off the boat

 

   

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