Sometimes, the best fishing takes place amidst the most challenging weather and conditions. Specifically, low temps, rain, sleet, snow, and wind. These elements (especially when combined) can very quickly sway the minds of anglers away from the task at hand. Instead of focusing on where the fish might be staging, reevaluating their rig, or running to more productive water, they’re focused on getting warm and dry.

Years ago, Simms introduced the Challenger Suit, a jacket and bib combo inspired by the Pro Dry, a foul weather fortress specifically designed for tournament bass anglers. In short order, the Pro Dry’s popularity, functionality, and sheer ability to protect anglers from the elements began to expand beyond its intended consumer. Pretty soon, the Pro Dry practically became a necessity for guides and anglers fishing any type of open water from a boat. The Challenger Suit, built entirely from Simms’ Pro Dry DNA came about to offer anglers a more accessible option for next-level weather protection.

Initially introduced in 2016, the Challenger Suit has become a staple in the Simms line. Over the years, Challenger has received its fair share of advancement and has evolved into its own collection inclusive of footwear, UPF protective clothing, technical hoodies, and more. This summer as part of their Fall 2023 line, Simms added a new member to the family — the all-new Challenger Insulated Jacket and Bib, a suit built to allow anglers to grind through the elements and stay completely warm while doing so.

Of course, anglers have long been able to layer beneath their rain suits which is advantageous on days where the weather is constantly changing. But then again, there are those days where you just know it’s going to be cold and wet from moment you leave the dock until the moment you’re back in the truck. The Challenger Insulated Suit provides a one-stop-shop for cold/wet weather protection.

Constructed from 2-layer waterproof/breathable Toray® fabric, both the Challenger Insulated Jacket and Bib feature fully taped seams to keep water out. In addition, the liners of both are built from a moisture-wicking polyester taffeta material. While the moisture wicking aspect of this fabric prevents sweat from saturating the fabric, it also allows anglers to put on and take off the jacket and bib with ease. No matter what your base layer is, this material glides right over it and provides a comfortable and unhindered range of motion.

For warmth, the Challenger Insulated Suit is powered by PrimaLoft® Rise Insulation throughout. PrimaLoft Rise is a synthetic alternative to natural down that in addition to providing lightweight warmth (without excessive bulk) also offers outstanding durability and resiliency even when wet.

The jacket comes equipped with a fully insulated 3-point adjustable hood uniquely designed to stay put at high speeds. A freestanding adjustable collar lined with brushed tricot provides additional warmth and comfort while a center-front zipper is reinforced with a waterproof storm flap to prevent driving rain from entering the jacket while on plane.

Even though the Challenger Insulated Suit was primarily designed for boat bound anglers, Simms’ product team recognized the fact that this suit could be a gamechanger for hardwater enthusiasts as well which gives reason to the inclusion of snap flaps positioned on each shoulder of the jacket to secure safety ice picks.

Anglers also have access to two oversized vertical chest pockets, one of which comes equipped with a tethered sunglass chamois. To revitalize frozen fingers, the jacket also includes two zippered brushed tricot lined handwarmer pockets that incorporate interior waist drawcord adjustments. The sleeves have also been modified with enhanced articulation to bolster comfort and range of motion and come equipped with hook and loop closures on the cuffs to give anglers the ability to completely lock water out.

Fishy features on the bib include strategically placed abrasion panels on the back seat, knees and bottom cuffs for enhanced durability and endless performance in cold/wet conditions. An adjustable air-mesh suspender system provides comfort and support while a high-back panel offers insulated waterproof coverage. Like the jacket, the bib’s center-front zipper also comes with a storm flap and also features drop-in, chest high handwamer pockets lined with brushed tricot. Finally, for added comfort while kneeling down on boat decks or frozen lakes, the bib also incorporates cushioned knee pads.

While the origin of Challenger stems from the demands and desires of the bass fishing community, make no mistake — the Challenger Insulated Suit has a place amongst all anglers that refuse to allow cold/wet weather to get in the way of their pursuit.