Our technical clothing selection includes hats, socks and base layers for fly fishing
Taking care of those parts of you the cold bites first can be the difference between a day spent shivering and one spent concentrating on fishing. The clothing we’ve tested will keep your skin warm, move with your body and won’t retain moisture. The outer garb looks good, too.
Zerofit Heatrub Ultimate Baselayer
£55
After T&S reviewed the award-winning Zerofit Heatrub Ultimate base layer (October 2021) the company had a great response from anglers keen to take advantage of its innovative “heat thread” technology — the soft fabric generates warmth by gently brushing against the skin as you move.
Another feature which gained approval is that unlike most other base layers, the Heatrub Ultimate doesn’t rely on trapping body heat by compression, so it is less constrictive. This, combined with the fabric’s super-stretch properties and amazing heat retention rating of 0.78 (compared to 0.1-0.14 for a standard base layer and 0.3 for the average sweater), makes the Ultimate the perfect choice for the active fly-fisher.
But anglers wanted more — a green option and larger 2XL and 3XL sizes. Zerofit listened to their customers and the Heatrub Ultimate is now available in forest green as well as black, grey, white and navy — and in larger sizes.
For winter grayling fishing, the Ultimate leggings are definitely worth considering to give all-round protection. For more information on Zerofit’s full range of base layers and matching head to toe accessories, visit its website.
Contact 02894 488316 Web zerofit.co.uk
Orvis Pro Insulated Cap
£62.95
The Orvis Pro insulated cap has some great features for those who want to make the most of winter and early spring fishing. It has a soft, itch-free fleece lining with 80g Primaloft Gold insulation, ensuring maximum warmth is retained. A deep flap can be folded down to give full protection to the neck and ears, and a crushable foam peak means it is featherlight and highly packable. The 20D rip stop shell has a durable water repellent finish, keeping your head dry and comfortable.
Phenomenally warm with excellent all-round weather protection, this cap offers more performance than your average beanie or baseball cap when you really need it.
Available in sizes S/M, L, and L/XL.
Tel 0333 400 4188 Web orvis.co.uk
Zerofit Heatrub Neck Warmer
£25
Features the same heat threads used in Zerofit's award-winning Ultimate base layers, proven to be five times warmer than a standard product.
Tel 02894 488 316 Web zerofit.co.uk
Schoffel Technical Fly Fishing Socks
£24.95
Made from antimicrobial fabric that manages unwanted moisture and prevents odours. These socks are incredibly comfortable and insulating.
Tel 01572 772 480 Web schoffelcountry.com
Salar Tweed Caps
£54.99
Designed for life on the river. Woven in the Scottish Borders from 100% Cheviot wool with added Teflon fabric to protect against the harshest outdoor elements.
Contact Country Sports Centre Tel 07715 977060 Web countrysportscentre.net
Zerofit Heatrub Ultimate Socks
£25
Following feedback from its customers, Zerofit’s Heatrub Ultimate Socks are now available in a 35cm knee-length version. The socks are engineered using the same award-winning Heat Threads used in the Heatrub Ultimate baselayer. Independently tested and proven to be five times warmer than a standard baselayer, they have a soft, fleece-like lining that is engineered to generate heat when the user moves and then retain it for long-term warmth.
The durable tight-knit exterior is soft and stretchy, which when combined with the pleated toe, heel and padded sole gives excellent fit and comfort. The rubberised Nano Pod soles used on the standard-length socks to provide extra grip inside shoes and boots has been removed on this longer version to make them easier to slip into wellies and stocking-foot waders.
The looser-knitted cuff gives ample support without cutting into the calf. A great addition, providing extra coverage and warmth for those who regularly wear longer boots or waders.
Sizes UK: 4-7, 7-10, 10-13
Contact Zerofit Tel 02894 488 316 Web zerofit.co.uk