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Apparel Review

Driftcreek Outdoors Tundra Guide Wear
Jacket and Bib Pant

Dry Angler.com

Reviewer: Capt's Al & Skip Montello

Date: Spring 2007


Introduction:
Quality foul weather gear is essential when in the outdoors and especially out on the open waters. I can't tell you how many times I have encountered some unexpected (or expected) nasty weather conditions; rain, snow, cold, sleet, and wind all at the same time! Staying dry and warm means comfort when the elements are relentless.
Driftcreek Outdoors Tundra Tech® Xtreme Guide®
Colors Dark olive brown
Material3 layer laminate with water repellant surface coating
Sizes AvailableS-3xl
Water Resistant/ Wind Proof100% waterproof, breathable and windproof
Price
First Impressions:

When I received the Tundra Tech shell and bib pant I was immediately struck by the innovative design features, fabric construction and quality, soft feel and easy fit of the shell and bib. I found both the shell and bib loaded with many design features that outdoors folks wanted but not usually found in one outfit. The jacket shell and bib pant is constructed of high-density 100% Polyester, laminated to a polymer membrane with the incredible technical aspects of water proof 10,000mm, and breath-ability 10,000mm. The two layers of fabric are then laminated to a tricot liner. The complete 3-layer laminate is coated with a durable water repellant (DWR) surface coating so the water beads off. The fabric combines complete protection from wind and water intrusion while maintaining breath-ability.

On the Water:

Over the years I have purchased and used all sorts of foul weather outfits; from the heavy oil skins used by commercial fisherman to the everyday coated nylon rain jacket. With all that experience I have learned something about what characteristics are important to me. The jacket must be light weight, 100% dry, wind proof, breathable, have many useful storage pockets, and an adjustable hood. The jacket must also fit well and allow for layering and range of motion necessary for fishing. The bib must also be light weight, 100% dry, wind proof, breathable, large storage pockets and comfortable fitting. I have had the opportunity to wear both the jacket and bib on several “foul weather outings” over this past spring. I have not been disappointed. The Tundra Tech outfit has met, and in some cases, exceeded my requirements for a foul weather suit. Tundra Tech is technical gear made for demanding weather conditions.

 Velcro closure, fly patch and taped seams

Features:
    Jacket
  • Waterproof zippers throughout
  • Performance hood with collar
  • Two oversized breast pockets with a zippered insert pocket and
    a lined hand warmer pocket and a detachable fly patch
  • Three D-rings, two in front and one behind collar
  • Oversized rear zippered game/storage pocket
  • Two inside storage pockets
  • Velcro adjustable Neoprene cuffs
  • Micro fleece lined components
  • Welded taped seams
  • Draw cord hem
    Bib
  • Waterproof zippers throughout
  • Abrasion resistant panels
  • Two oversized cargo pockets
  • Zippered side hand warmer pockets
  • Side pant leg zippers
  • Two inside storage pockets
  • Attached elastic suspenders
  • Welded taped seams
  • Draw cord at waist and leg cuff
    Cap
  • Waterproof
  • Micro fleece sweat band
  • Adjustable rear velcro strap
Storage:

The expandable oversized pockets on the jacket and bib measured 9x7 inches with a Velcro closure flaps. The pockets easily stored large fly or tackle containers. The large (12x12”) rear jacket pocket easily allowed for extra gear storage or could serve as a game pocket. The inside zippered pockets were adequate to store valuables and/ or small electronics. Overall, the storage capability of the outfit was more than adequate.

Comfort & Freedom:

The light weight material of the outfit did not weigh me down even after several hours on the water. The bib is full cut to easily fit over any under clothing.
The jacket was also comfortable as an outer layer in dry weather conditions. The generous fabric cut for the given size was satisfactory for layering with a fleece pullover and not become bulky or restrictive.

Applications:

The Tundra Tech Guide Wear is well designed for its intended use as a foul weather outer layer in fishing, boating or any outdoor activity that demands complete protection from the weather. The outfit is designed for function, form, fit, feel and finish. I received many favorable comments about the outfit’s stylish good looks.
Driftcreek Outdoors Tundra Tech® Xtreme Guide®
Construction-Quality The materials/ fabrics of choice and the quality of construction are exceptional.4.8
PerformanceThe jacket performed well in all our field tests. The jacket is 100% waterproof and breath-able. The full cut of the outfit allowed for adequate layering while providing a full range of motion.4.9
Features and DesignThe overall design and inclusion of many cutting edge features like waterproof zippers (instead of storm flaps), oversized storage pockets and abrasion resistant panels make the outfit stand out. The large waterproff zipper is difficult to operate with one hand. The bib cuff draw string could present a tripping hazzard when drawn tight. 4.5
ApplicationIt is an all around foul weather outfit for many outdoor activities. A lighter-brighter color choice for offshore venues would provide a safety advantage.4.6
PriceThe MSRP- Jacket;$199.95, Bib;$199.95, Cap; $19.95. The MSRP for the jacket, bib pant and cap is reasonable given the product quality. 4.3
Score:1-5(5=highest)Total Score4.6

Conclusion:

I can not stress enough how important quality foul weather gear is. There is nothing worse than being out in nasty weather without exceptional outerwear. Being cold and wet can lead to hyperthermia or worse. The Tundra Tech Guide Wear is an excellent choice for any outdoor foul weather experience and it possesses all of the features I find essential to make my outdoor activities pleasurable.The MSRP for the jacket, bib pant and cap is reasonable given the product quality. What we liked the most were; Fit and Feel, Functionality and Overall Comfort. Areas that we felt could be improved were; The large waterproof zipper requires two hands to operate and the bib draw string cuff can present a tripping hazzard when drawn tight. Also, offer a Tundra Suit in a lighter, brighter color for improved safety for offshore venues.

Dry Angler is offering a 10% discount on the Tundra Tech

Jacket, bib pant or hat. Use promo code; "gear guide" when you order.

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