Well, that’s it: the fields are turning white in the morning, the woodstove is begging for more logs, and you’re probably already wondering what to throw on before heading out… Long story short, T-shirt and short-sleeve season is officially over. Time to warm up a little so we can take on the fall chill…
Patagonia Men’s Down Sweater Jacket
Simply put, it’s the best lightweight “puffy” out there. The model has been proving itself for years, and it’s still just as warm, just as light, and just as comfortable. You can even roll it up and stuff it into its own inside pocket like a little pillow! New this year: when you buy one, it comes with a repair pouch full of self-adhesive black patches, and for us fishing folks, there are fish-shaped ones in case you tear it! From $201 to $289, available in 10 different colors! (Mine is over 10 years old…)
_________________________________________________________
Decathlon : Simond Men’s MT500 Down Puffer Jacket
Decathlon is a French brand that is known to be really affordable and available all accross Europe. For the past years they opened their business to the US market and are known not only for being cheaper than other brands but also to be really tough. Here’s the Simond Puffer Jacket that we love to wear when it’s getting colder. Comes in 3 colours (check for availability) and is from $100 to $150. Houlala ! So Fench!
_________________________________________________________
Montre Casio Pro Trek PRJ-B001B-2
Behind that tongue-twister of a name is a watch we absolutely love. It’s great for taking along on your fishing trips: solar-powered, syncs with your smartphone, waterproof, and super comfortable to wear thanks to its adaptive strap system, no matter how you choose to wear it. Sadly, it’s a victim of its own success and you can’t find it online anymore, but it’s still available at some Casio retailers and specialty sites. The internet is your friend! $180
_________________________________________________________
C&F 30th Anniversary Tool Assortment
Here’s a great excuse to treat yourself, or to get something for a buddy! Pretty much all of us have C&F Design boxes for our flies, but this time it’s an anniversary pack that’s going to make you very happy! Along with an anniversary fly box, the set includes:
CFA-27: A magnetic patch to keep your flies nice and dry!
CFA-43: A line cutter with three tools in one!
CFA-50/MSF: A chest pack fly holder!
CFA-70WF: A pin-on retractor, or as we like to call it, a zinger!
CFA-72/LC: A pin-on button with a line cutter!
CFA 100 BK: A thermometer to check the water temp!
All: $180
_________________________________________________________
Filson : Heritage Cotton Down Vest
Now this one is the real deal! This iconic vest is warm thanks to its quilted down insulation, tough thanks to its heavy canvas, and it drops well down the lower back (originally designed for when you’re on horseback), so you’ll be comfortable. The front pockets are deep and lined with synthetic insulating fabric that keeps your hands warm and dries them quickly! The zipper works both ways (often handy), and the knit collar keeps you toasty. $250, available in black, green or beige.
_________________________________________________________
The most important thing when you want to stay warm is your extremities: feet with nice warm socks, hands with gloves or pockets where they’ll dry out and stay toasty, and then your head! Of course we wear caps, usually canvas ones where the brim matters, or beanies to keep our heads warm. But while the beanie is the cozier option, it’s missing a brim. Well, this cap gives you both: a warm, fleece-lined cap with a brim, plus one real bonus: fold down the side flaps and it keeps your neck warm too! Available in Red Plaid, $49 or $70 in Loden ou Duke Plaid : Hickory
