Arctic Armor

[TimM]

I guess this isn't strictly speaking a fishing only product however it is something that any of us fishing in the winter might use. 

I bought a pair of the IDI Arctic Armor insulated bibs a year or two ago and really liked them. They were not nearly as bulky as any insulated bibs I'd ever worn and did an excellent job of keeping me warm. So, this fall I bought the matching jacket and finally gave them a good test. 

I fished Friday (12-17) from daylight to noonish with air temps hovering around 33-34 all day and not one single ray of sunshine. I intentionally went light on the layers under the insulated wear just to test it's effectiveness. Wearing fleece lined jeans with a flannel shirt and a light turtleneck under it I was basically fine all day and the only time my upper body got a little chilly was when we were running between spots in the boat.  If I'd had on a thermal undershirt I'm confident I would've been plenty warm.  The bibs seem plenty durable after having had them a while and I really like the fact that this gear isn't any where near as bulky as most insulated outerwear but it seems to do a better job of keeping me warm than anything I've had before. The fact that it will also make you float if disaster strikes and you find yourself in the water is just a bonus - but a nice one for sure!  Not cheap stuff but it's comparable to most better insulated suits price-wise and I think does a better job.  I know several striper-heads that have it and every one of them loves it so far.

Arctic Armor by IDI:

http://www.idigear.com/arcticarmor.php

[icthus]

MikeA turned me onto the wind blocking pants from Cabela's as well as the jacket.  Both items keep me warm when it is around 25 degrees and keep the wind out.  Since moving here from FL, I have learned it is worth every penny to pay for items that work.  I my opinion items that wor:  Marmot rain jackets, with pac light, BPS fleece gloves, korker boots (given to me by pal), chota vest, pategonia fleeces and simmis wading socks and waders.  I feel like I am advertising for these folks, but as my good friend thumper says; "If your going to be out in the $H*# dress for it.

there is no reason to suffer or be uncomfortable when one can spend $20 or  $30 and get the stuff that works.

your pal




pal