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In this article, find out how to "stay warm without sacrificing your mobility", with tried and tested solutions.
The 3-layer principle: the science behind comfort
Layer 1: breathable (wicks away perspiration)
- Materials: choose thermal underwear made from merino wool (natural, odor-resistant) or synthetic (polypropylene). Cotton should be avoided: it absorbs moisture and cools you down as soon as the wind picks up.
- Why it works: this layer wicks away sweat to avoid the "frigid" effect when you stop moving (e.g. waiting for a touch, which can take a long time in winter).
Layer 2: insulating (to retain heat)
- Materials: a thin fleece (for very cold days). Thickness depends on your activity: thicker if you're static (e.g. angling), lighter if you move around a lot.
Layer 3: waterproof and windproof (to protect against the elements)
Rain and wind are your main enemies. They make you feel colder than you really are.
3 Criteria to be met :
- Waterproof (over 5,000 mm).
- Breathable (Gore-Tex technology or equivalent).
- Practical details: adjustable hood, waterproof pockets and anti-infiltration zip.
Pitfalls to avoid: all-in-one jackets that are too heavy and restrict your movements (e.g. when casting bait).
Protect extremities: hands, feet, head
Head and face
- Neoprene balaclava (ideal for boat trips) or merino wool cap (balaclava), not forgetting the choker (to block air intakes).
- My little goggle tip: take a ski mask with good coverage, to protect your eyes and face if the weather turns rainy. Choose an anti-fogging model with a wide fit if you're wearing prescription glasses.
Hands
- Gloves: opt for neoprene models, which provide better insulation and stand up to wet conditions. The problem with fishing, especially in winter, is knots. There are many gloves on the market that allow you to uncover your fingers when you need to. Very practical for casting or baiting.
My tip: slip a heater into your gloves to keep the heat in. They last around 6 hours and give off gentle heat.
Feet
- Socks: thick merino wool (avoid foot-compressing overlays).
- Boots :
- Neoprene for fishing.
- Sailor's boots with non-slip soles for boating.
My boat tip: after many attempts and outings with icy feet, I opted for "special snow" hiking boots. They are often lined and waterproof on the lower part. Underneath, I wear thick waterproof socks to avoid getting my feet wet with fresh sea water. Between the sock and the shoe, you can add a heater for even more warmth.
Clever and often overlooked accessories
Here are 4 little extras that change everything (and cost less than ?50):
- Heated belts (for the lumbar region) or heated insoles will be invaluable friends. Sleeveless heated jackets with superb autonomy are now available.
- Greasy cream (such as *Cold Cream) to protect your face from the wind. Try it, it really changes the way you feel.
- Thermos flasks with hot drinks such as coffee, chocolate or soup (avoid alcohol, which cools the body).
- Waterproof bag for spare layers (a wet sweater is a useless sweater). Imagine if someone fell into the water when it was 5°C and raining. He'll be glad to get back into dry clothes as soon as possible.
A successful winter outfit rests on three pillars: intelligent layering, suitable materials and targeted accessories. By following these tips, you can turn a strenuous outing into a productive session - and perhaps even a longer one, since you'll be able to withstand the cold better. By the way, these tips apply to fishing as well as to other winter activities.
