Fortis Snugpak FJ6 Jacket vs Nash Scope OPS Rain Jacket + Trousers

Over the past few years, Fortis, in cahoots with extreme outdoor clothing brand, Snugpak, has made a really big noise when it comes to angling attire. From the SJ3 evening summer jacket to the extremely winter SJ9 with matching salopettes, now comes the FJ6 – a garment that Fortis state has been engineered for one single reason: to take a fishing jacket to the extreme limit of what’s possible.

But as is often the case – one jacket cannot service all of what Mother Nature throws at us. Willing to sacrifice some warmth for total water-protection? Or does feeling like you’re wrapped up in a Fortis x Snugpak Techlite Sleeping Bag rank higher in your wishlist? Read on to find out which is better for you…

Fortis Snugpak FJ6 Jacket

Best for: Carpers who value warmth more than full-on rain protection.

Ultimate explorer brand, Snugpak know their way around insulation – they’ve got 30-years experience of hand-crafting the stuff – and Fortis have the expertise in knowing exact what the angler wants. Mix those two together and the exclusive ‘Fortis Jacket 6’ is the offspring.

Snugpak’s renowned “Softie Insulation” is the FJ6’s fill of choice, which offers unrivalled insulating properties, retaining heat and maximusing comfort which will keep you warm in the elements down to -5şC. It’s randomised fine filament fibres create extra voids and loft to trap more warm air but without the burden of weight. And whilst it may only be water repellent, the Paratex outer shell is darn tough, windproof and incredibly breathable to help wick moisture away.

All of this fabric awesomeness would mean nothing if the cut was terrible. Thankfully the design is tailored to the contours of your body, articulated patterning designed specifically for angler mobility. The three-quarter length keep out the draughts when stationary and the extended sleeve length is designed to increase movement when casting. Want the ultimate in warmth and comfort? Well, it’s right here: you’ve just got to slip it on. “GIMME”: Olive, £129.95; DPM, £139.95; fortiseyewear.co.uk

Nash Scope OPS Rain Jacket + Trousers

Best for: Anglers who are willing to give up some warmth in return for the ultimate in waterproof protection.

If standing out in the cold rain for hours watching for “winter signs” is your thing, then you’re in luck, as Nash’s OPS Rain Jacket and matching Trousers are manufactured from the brand’s Aqua Sense 10 material, which, according to top tackle shop, The Tackle Box in Kent, “Is ultra-waterproof and fully breathable.”

Designed as a waterproof over-jacket to withstand the most extremes of weather, the rain jacket provides great wind-stopping capabilities but has minimal thermal properties. Featuring fully taped seamed material, waterproof zips and breathable liner, it’s ideal to throw on for a quick “scope” (see what we did there?!) round the lake. Available sizes from small to Xtra Generous, and whilst not the cheapest waterproof jacket at £119.99, it is by far one of the best on the market.

Nash Scope OPS Rain Trousers

Made to the same spec at the jacket and features removable braces so they can be worn as standard trousers. Waterproof zips on the boot cuffs with Velcro adjustment on the waist, plus there are zips to access through the trousers underneath. Available in the same sizes as the jacket. “GIMME”: £99.99

Snugpak/Fortis Snugnut DPM Hat

Bankside walks, trips down to the local, generally any time spent outdoors at this time of year will require a hat of some description. The Snugnut Hat is, quite literally, like walking around with a sleeping bag turban thanks to it being made from the same fabrics and fillings as their -15şC sleeping bags. “GIMME”: £29.95