So I was at the shop the other day checking out some wading jackets. I'm curious if any of you guys can tell me about the neoprene cuffs. Do those really make a difference with water getting in your arms? I have a couple really nice gortex jackets from my buddies at Marmot. I layer up on fleece which dries pretty quick and I have never had any issues with those not having the cuffs. I know you maybe payed 400$ for the wading jacket but be honest here does it really keep the water out??
As someone that has an overpriced $400 wading jacket I think I might be able to help you out here. Having cuffs that are adjustable and stretch tight around your wrist do help and do slow this ingress of water up your arms/sleeves, however they are by no means waterproof. So in short my opinion is that if you have a good Gortex jacket that you are happy with and it has some sort of adjustable cuff that you can cinch up snug it is not worth the money to buy a fancy one with neoprene stretchy stuff.Â
That said I think I might have been a little harsh when i called my jacket overpriced. You can get similar ones for a lot less money but mine performed brilliantly on quite a few trips up the coast and I absolutely love the thing and it has helped make my many many many long and unsuccessful days up there a little warmer and drier!!!
Cheers
AA
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"Three-fourths of the Earth's surface is water, and one-fourth is land. It is quite clear that the good Lord intended us to spend triple the amount of time fishing as taking care of the lawn." - Anon.
I agree with AA (I bet you'd never hear me say that Alistair)! The neoprene cuffs on my jacket only slow the intake of water, they are definitely not waterproof. I have spent many days on the water with wet forearms and wrists. The cuffs are not worth the expense in my opinion.
For me the cut/design of the jacket's hood is way more important. There is nothing more annoying than fishing on a windy/rainy day and your hood keeps getting in your face and obstructing your view.
right on guys thanks. I work with liquids everyday just like you Alistair and know how sneaky a little water can be finding it's way into tiny spaces. I will stick with my trusty jackets which seem to do a good enough job for me.Â
