“Build the best product, cause no unnecessary harm, use business to inspire and implement solutions to the environmental crisis.”

-Patagonia’s Mission Statement

As we transition from summer into fall and winter our gear choices become even more important. A Gore-Tex or other DWR type outerwear is almost a necessity in the coming months. Keeping warm and dry is good for morale and allows anglers to stay out longer in a majority of weather situations.  DWR stands for “Durable water repellant coating” and it is a chemical surface treatment applied to apparel and other materials which causes the fabric to become hydrophobic which is better known as water repellant. Water will bead off of the fabric and wick away.  Over time this coating will experience wear and deterioration which will cause a wet and clammy feeling since the fabric is not performing at 100%. However a simple and affordable solution is available to make your DWR and other Gore-Tex gear good as new.

Revivex is a water repellant spray that is designed to restore all DWR coated fabrics back to 100% functionality.  It can be used on Jackets, Pants, Hats, Waders and much more.  The spray is extremely easy to use. Anything treated with Revivex needs to be washed beforehand without detergent. The next step after pulling your gear out of the wash is to spray on the Revivex Treatment and then just throw it in the drier. After that your gear should be good as the day you got it.

Pros-

• Simplicity of use
• Range of treatment options – I have used this products on everything from Jackets, Waders and Tents
•  Price – $14.95 to make your outerwear and other gear water repellant is a small price to pay
• Performance – Treated gear is as good as the day it was purchased

Cons:

• Small amount – 5 oz containers do not last long with all the gear that this spray can treat

Overall Revivex is an excellent and affordable solution for all anglers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to extend the life of their equipment. Revivex sure beats investing in new gear.

After slipping and sliding through yet another slick, cobbled Skeena run, we came home determined to find a better traction solution. Drawing on his mountaineering experience, Yvon Chouinard disappeared into the Tin Shed and went to work…

A Simms classic has been reborn in the form of the reintroduced Simms Guide Wader.  For anglers looking for frills and luxuries (aka front zippers, hand warmer pockets and built in retractors) these may not be your cup of tea. However what these waders lack in gadgets they make up for in pure angling function.

These waders feature a 3 layer GORE-TEX fabric from the legs down and when the temperatures drop staying warm is paramount.  My favorite feature on the Simms Guide Wader has to be the front stitched seams. In my extremely humble opinion that is huge because they do not experience as much wear as traditional seams. That is where a majority of anglers experience leaks within their waders due to constant friction from hiking and wading.  Overall these waders are an excellent value for anglers who don’t want to break the bank when looking for new waders.

Pros:

• 3 Layer GORE-TEX fabric which makes these waders highly breathable and leaves the angler feeling comfortable and dry.
• Built in gravel guards to provide extra protection while wading
• Front seam construction increases longevity of waders.

Cons:

• In my experience these waders can be quite hot as temperatures rise during the summertime.  That can be attributed to the quality materials used to keep the angler dry.

These waders have served me quite well over the year and a half I have been using them. I have heard  that it is not uncommon for an angler to get 5-10 years out of a pair of these Simms waders.  These waders are not cheap but if you fish 70+ days a year or just want to be as comfortable as possible spending that little bit extra will pay off in the long run.

As many anglers know Simms Fishing Products makes a wide variety of high quality products. The Simms Guide Wading Boot is no exception.  As a person that has a difficult time walking as it is wading can be a challenge for me. Having a boot that can give me the optimal mix of support, traction and comfort is paramount.

The Guide Boot is an excellent boot for anglers looking for a little bit more support while wading.  The Guides utilize a full Nubuck leather upper that makes them extremely tough and durable. For me one of the most important features of this boot is the molded rubber toe cap. It provides excellent protection from rocks and all other obstacles faced while wading.

Pros:

• Full Length EVA Midsole for added cushioning
• Molded rubber toe cap for added protection in the toughest of wading conditions
• Molded rubber heel cup design provides excellent ankle support
• Felt and Vibram Streamtread Rubber Soles to meet the needs of any angler

Cons:

• The Nubuck leather makes these boots on the heavier side weighing in at over 4lbs
• Brass hardware utilized within the lacing system will, over time, wear out laces
• Leather within the boot does not dry quickly. These boots will stay wet longer than other boots.

This boot has become a favorite of not only me but a majority of the staff here at Fishwest. This boot provides just the right amount of support, cushioning and traction. Overall these boots have so far withstood the test of time for this unsteady angler.