WHAT IS IT?
SIMMS Challenger Rain Suit
WHAT SETS IT APART?
SIMMS earned serious attention for its new release when Dylan Nutt wore the Challenger suit en route to his Bassmaster Classic win at Fort Loudoun-Tellico Lakes. Four months later, industry media and buyers voted the Challenger into an ICAST Best In Show award for the Mens Technical Apparel category. Central to this suit’s appeal is a true three-layer construction that addresses key areas of on-the-water concerns. Utilizing a tough, durable performance fabric called HydroForge, SIMMS delivers waterproof protection in a breathable form with the right amount of stretch for comfort and mobility.
HOW DO I USE IT?
SIMMS designed the Challenger suit with several key features that keep the angler shielded from the elements. Among them, the jacket includes a protective storm flap, zippered hand warmer and chest pockets, adjustable hem and cuffs and a three-way adjustable storm hood. Equipped with adjustable suspenders, the bib includes articulated legs, spacious storage pocket and knee-high side zippers for easy on and off. And for maximum durability, the bib’s lower hems are reinforced to stand up to boat deck abrasion. Offered in sizes XS-4XL, the SIMMS Challenger suit comes in five colors.
HOW MUCH?
$360 (each piece)
MORE INFORMATION:
ANGLER’S INSIGHT:
SIMMS has a solid track record of designing items that blend angler comfort/protection with real-world functionality. Bassmaster Elite pro and SIMMS pro-staffer Jeff Gustafson said he has not only employed his Challenger suit on the bass tournament trail; he’ll also be wearing his jacket and bib during this Canadian winter’s ice fishing. A notable point here — one applicable to anglers in all climates — is Gussy appreciates the Challenger suit’s padded knees, which minimize kneeling fatigue (on the ice or on a boat deck). It is focal points like this that exemplify SIMMS’ commitment to angler-friendly designs.