Gear Review: Gill Hydrophobe Down Jacket

What is it?

Gill Hydrophobe Down Jacket

What sets it apart?

We tend to think of outerwear as being designed to keep us warm or keep us dry. Clearly, great strides have been made in rain gear that also address warmth, but jackets and vests aren’t expected to keep us dry, right? Enter the GILL Hydrophobe, a smartly designed jacket made to keep you warm on those chilly days, but also dry from perspiration or exterior water sources like spray and light rain.

How do I use it?

Available in jacket and vest form, the Hydrophobe’s outer shell is insulated with water resistant 650 fill power and packed with 90/10 water-resistant duck down. This allows the Hydrophobe to withstand moisture, even when worn alone. The easily packed jacket and vest use coated micro-baffle to resist water for a non-clumping coating. Mens sizes XS-XXL are available in charcoal, while women’s sizes 6-14 come in pewter.

How much?

$179 (jacket), $139 (vest)

More Information:

GillFishing.com

Angler’s insight:

Such comfort and function is not surprising, considering that Gill finds its history rooted deeply in competitive sailing; a sport where staying warm and dry are paramount to performance in often harsh and challenging conditions. Bass anglers face their own environmental challenges from early spring’s frigid nature, to wippy fall afternoons. Layering is a well-employed strategy, but an item that can serve as a technical mid layer or a primary jacket provides the kind of versatility that keeps the day rolling smoothly along.