Gear Reviews

*Please note some of these products may no longer be available to purchase on the website* Sun protection is a constant battle for fly fishermen, and one of the best ways to protect your neck, ears, and face is with a hoody from Patagonia. The new ultralight, UPF rated, Patagonia Hoodys provide a comfortable solution for anglers all over the world. Whether you are chasing permit in Belize, tarpon in the Florida Keys, or trout here in western Colorado, you are going to spend hours upon hours cooking underneath the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays. While sunscreen is effective protection against the UVB rays that cause sunburn. It is not enough to guard against the long term effects of the sun's UVA rays. Which can include wrinkles, premature aging, and skin cancer. Anglers who spend time near the equator or at high elevations should consider purchasing UPF rated clothing to ensure maximum skin protection. Common UPF ratings range from 15 to 50 depending on how much ultraviolet radiation is allowed to pass through the fabric. A UPF rating of 15 is good, and a UPF rating of 50 is excellent. Patagonia Hoodies come in a wide variety of styles, colors, and UPF ratings to accommodate every angler and climate. Tropic Comfort Hoody II The Tropic Comfort Hoody II is made with lightweight 20 UPF rated polyester jersey fabric that wicks moisture, breathes well, and feels like cotton. The hood is large enough to fit over a ball cap without feeling constricting or in the way. The sleeves feature thumb holes for added protection over the backs of the hands. At $59, this is Patagonia's most affordable fly fishing hoody choice. Men's Sunshade Technical Hoody The Sunshade Technical Hoody is a real flats fishing hoody designed specifically for saltwater anglers and guides. Ultraviolet radiation does not stand a chance against its large hood, built in sun mask, or 45 UPF rating. Extra features include a zippered chest pocket on the left side. Also, a stretch woven nylon reinforced sides and forearms to withstand the abrasion from a push pole. One issue that came up during testing was that the stitching came undone around the sun mask. This was a small problem that was quickly fixed and really did not affect the performance of the hoody, and with Patagonia's Ironclad Guarantee, it was a breeze to replace. In the end, it kept Vail Valley Anglers Guide Justin Carr cool, comfortable, and as pale as ever through three weeks of intense Caribbean sun. The Sunshade Technical Hoody is new for 2014 and will set you back $89. Women's Sunshade Hoody Fly fishing is not just for men, and neither is sun protection with the Patagonia Women's Sunshade Hoody. The 3.54 ounce polyester double-knit fabric boasts a nearly impenetrable 45 UPF rating for ultimate comfort and ultraviolet protection. The hidden zippered side pocket on the left hip stores tippet spools and sunglass cloth. At $69 dollars, this hoody is a must for the 2014 fly fishing season. Stop by Vail Valley Anglers to try out all of the Patagonia fly fishing hoodies and get the latest in complete ultraviolet protection.

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