Factor weather into boating and fishing in Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina. The weather impacting boaters and anglers includes rain, heavy winds, and occasionally snow. It is essential to remain dry compared to being uncomfortable in sopping wet clothes. One of the best pieces of clothing for staying dry is by wearing foul weather gear. Here is what you need to know about foul weather gear. 

What Does Foul Weather Gear Consist Of

The outerwear consists of two parts when it comes to gear to help boaters and anglers stay warm and dry. 

The first is a jacket that most frequently zippers or snaps in the front and repels water while keeping the clothes beneath dry. 

The second article of clothing is bib pants. Bib pants are most frequently designed as overalls. The pants extend to the ankles while the upper portion reaches the center of the chest and contains two straps. At the top, two straps stretch from the backside of the pants, over the shoulders, and clip into the front of the pants. The purpose of the straps is to hold the bibs in the proper position.

When it comes to materials, foul weather gear is composed of neoprene or PVC. The materials are designed waterproof to repel water keeping the angler or boater dry. 

Due to the weight and materials, foul weather gear is challenging when worn during the hot summer months. Despite keeping clothing dry from the rain, sweat accumulates due to the inability of the outer layer to breathe. 

What Is Foul Weather Gear Used For

Boating and fishing expose people to whatever nature brings. When the forecast calls for a clear day, you can never rule out the possibility of a thunderstorm. We have been ill-prepared all too often when the weather deviated far from what was predicted. 

Foul weather gear is used for a multitude of reasons. We will break down how the outer layer of clothing provides value for multiple scenarios.

Rain

The most common reason for wearing the gear is to remain dry when rain falls from the sky. In combination, pants and jackets prevent water from penetrating layers of clothing beneath the waterproof layer. 

Sea Spray

While we use the term sea spray as a result of winds pushing the water when a boat moves through the water occurs in fresh and saltwater.

Seaspray is common among vessels of all sizes, particularly when winds are whipping. To prevent becoming doused in water due to spray from the boat traveling through the water in high seas, wear waterproof protective gear. 

Fishing

Anglers fishing are exposed to all of the elements, including rain and seaspray. However, fighting and handling fish results in the accumulation of slim and blood.

Wear foul weather gear to prevent clothing from becoming saturated in slime and blood when catching fish endlessly. The outer layer is easily rinsed and prevents staining clothing permanently. 

Fish Cleaning

Similar to fishing is fish cleaning. Cleaning fish is messy business when dealing with fish guts. Standing at a fillet table means slicing, bagging fillets, and constantly rinsing the cutting table. 

Blood and guts become projectiles landing on clothing when filleting, bagging, and rinsing. Wear foul weather gear to prevent becoming saturated in the unpleasant innards.  Weather protective gear allows you to rinse away the undesirable parts of fish. 

Where Can You Buy Foul Weather Gear

Inclimate weather gear is available for purchase both on the internet and in retail stores. One of the most widely known companies producing the clothing to keep you dry and warm is Grundens.

Fortunately, the waterproof layer of clothing lasts for extended periods of time when rinsed, dried, and stored; therefore, you will not be required to shop for the gear consistently. 

When not in use, hang the jacket and pants on hangers allowing them to remain in their natural position compared to folded. When folded, creases form, causing the outer later to tear, allowing water to penetrate within. With proper care, foul weather gear lasts for years on end. 

Are You Ready To Step Into Foul Weather Gear

Rather than feeling uncomfortable during a day of fishing in Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina, keep yourself dry by wearing a waterproof outer layer. We can attest to the value of the gear when presented with handling fish, rain, and operating in heavy seas. Remember to pack the protective layer of equipment despite clear skies and calm seas. Anglers and boaters never know when foul weather gear will come in handy.