Clothing

PUKKA!On an early spring recce to Navitas HQ in deepest Essex I was privvy to a host of exciting new bits, incuding these three, which I singled out for a closer look. First up, and a particular favourite for me as a self-confessed Croc hater, the Weaves offer a great option to the carp angler wanting a summer shoe that can be slipped on and off in a hurry. The weave design allows water to drain out immediately and, despite it being more of a slipper design, the rear folds down easily to allow them to be worn more like a slip-on. Super-lightweight but with a decent soles, they take up very little room and can be worn for long periods without any discomfort.

Dan Murrell’s verdict:Outstanding value-for-money waders. 4/5 I love a pair of waders, and have tried most, so was interested when these turned up. First impressions were of tough waders, which immediately appealed because I’m known as really putting stuff through its paces. I was amazed to find that they cost less than 40 quid! The material is 680g Plavitex, which once I’d put them on felt easy enough to move in but also extremely robust and, obviously, supremely waterproof.

Okay, put the price tag to one side for a moment and focus your attentions on the word breathable. That’s right, these superb waders are as waterproof as you’d expect, but are genuinely breathable, unlike any other booted waders I have ever used. To get this sort of performance you’d usually have to buy a socked wader from one of the top game fishing companies, which then require a further investment in wading boots, which are really not at all convenient for carp anglers. Even after all of that, I doubt you’d find a set to combine that performance with the hard-wearing, robust build of the 305s.

Despite an extremely mild winter, with some cold winds on the way and even the possibility of the odd snow flutter, it might be a little soon to overlook winter clothing. We’ve checked out some new winter garments from Prologic and they are very impressive. Sold individually, both items boast an awesome PU lamination, which gives 100 per cent waterproof protection while retaining a breathability of 3. 000mvp, so as well as keeping the water out, it does its best to limit the wearer’s sweating.

Among some of the thickest and most padded stuff we’ve had in for ages, this oozes a feel of warmth and insulation. Trakker labels the filling as ‘medium’ weight, and this makes sense because it’s not restrictively heavy but it still feels extremely warm and comfortable. We have not had any real subzero temperatures yet, at least not as I write this shortly before Christmas, so there hasn’t been the chance to really test it to its limits. However, I’d be surprised, and more than a bit disappointed, if it wasn’t seriously warm.

Wicked range of new winter headwear Two bobbles – Fleck Bobble and Norse Bobble Peaked Beanie for the modern ‘carpy’ brigade Chunky Knot Beanie for the all-round look £9. 99 to £13. 99 WWW. TRAKKERPRODUCTS.