Gear Review: Gill Tournament PRO 3L Jacket

WHAT IS IT?

Gill Tournament PRO 3L Jacket

WHAT SETS IT APART?

Gill chooses not to partner with a branded fabric supplier, giving the brand the freedom to innovate without limitations. An example of that freedom is integrated in the Tournament Pro 3L Jacket. XPLORE+ is Gill’s three-layer fabric that is waterproof, breathable and durable. It has the added benefit of a lightweight mesh, providing guaranteed protection and comfort. What else sets it apart is each garment is given a rating, indicating how well it performs under Gill’s categories of waterproofness, breathabilty and durability. You can dial into which level and garment is best suited for your needs. Colors: Graphite, Taupe. Sizes: XS-4XL. 

HOW DO I USE IT?

You expect tournament-grade technology in a jacket bearing the name. The Tournament Pro 3L jacket delivers. You get the confidence in knowing all the bases are covered, beginning with the three-layer fabric construction and fully taped seams. Vortex hood technology keeps the hood in place when traveling at high speeds. Zippered chest pockets offer plenty of room for stashing small items that can be quickly retrieved. Spacious side pockets provide even more functionality. And adjustable double cuffs with PU inner seal, and a YKK Aquaguard front zipper add watertight protection and comfort. 

HOW MUCH?

$349

MORE INFORMATION:

Gillfishing.com

ANGLER’S INSIGHT:

What design feature stands out for me is the Vortex hood technology. An extended neck extends into the hood, providing more protection from wind and rain. And it does stay in place, even when running at full throttle. In Gill’s ratings hierarchy of three categories (waterproofness, breathabilty, durability), the jacket gets the highest ratings for the first two and a high rating for the third. You owe it to yourself to see just what extremes Gill puts garments through before releasing them. See more about the system and ratings here. It’s quite impressive, and you get the confidence in knowing these garments are built for comfort and built to perform in the most extreme marine environments.