Beat Winter with the best picks for layering systems for ice fishing
Ice fishing is a time-honored tradition, but gone are the days of enduring the cold in ill-fitting garments and old-school materials. Today, the advances in fabric technology have transformed our experiences in the great outdoors. No longer do we need to choose between warmth and mobility or between comfort and functionality. With the right layering, ice fishing becomes a cozy and delightful experience, even in the face of Mother Nature's harshest conditions.
Understanding Layering
Before diving into our top picks, let's establish the essentials of layering:
Base Layer: Your first line of defense. This layer absorbs moisture from your body to keep you dry and warm.
Mid Layer: The insulating layer. It ensures your body heat doesn't escape into the cold surroundings.
Outer Shell/Hoodie: The protective layer. It shields you from external factors like wind, snow, and rain.
Top Recommendations for Ice Fishing Layering
Base Layer:
Eskimo® Midweight Baselayer Shirt and Pant:
What We Love: These aren't just any base layers; they're like a second skin that's both efficient and comfortable. The peached anti-microbial jersey knit fabric ensures that moisture doesn’t linger, keeping chills at bay. Beyond its functional wicking property, its softness is a true luxury against the skin.
Fit and Comfort: The design priorities comfort, evident in its relaxed fit, thoughtful seam placements, and gentle thread quality. Whether you're in the cabin, resting in a shack, or on a snowmobiling escapade, this base layer promises a cozy start to your layering system.
Mid Layer:
What We Love: If there's one piece of advice to take from this review, it's this: leave your jeans at home! The North Shore Pant is the epitome of what a mid-layer should be - warm, water-resistant, and not restraining. The StretchTuff™ fabric is an innovation in balancing stretch and breathability.
Functional Features: A standout is its fleece lining, ensuring the cold stays out. The design, reminiscent of workwear-inspired pants, boasts of comfort akin to wearing your favorite pair of sweatpants.
BibJak™ for Top:
What We Love: The BibJak is the answer to the age-old question: "Should I wear a jacket or another layer?" This piece masterfully blends the best of both. The top is both waterproof and windproof, ensuring maximum protection. Meanwhile, the fleece bottom offers unparalleled warmth.
Versatility: Its design allows it to sit comfortably inside your bibs, giving you a warm layer without making you feel like a marshmallow. Every ice angler, whether novice or seasoned, would benefit from this piece in their wardrobe.
Layering for ice fishing has witnessed a revolution. The modern ice fisher has access to materials and designs that prioritize both form and function. The key is to invest in pieces that work seamlessly together, ensuring that each layer complements the others. Our top picks, from the Eskimo base layers to the North Shore Pant and the BibJak top, exemplify the best in ice fishing wear today. With these in your arsenal, the ice becomes less of a chilling challenge and more of a winter wonderland waiting to be explored. Happy fishing!
