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Simms Wool Layering

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Simms Wool Layering

CONFIDENCE IN ALL CONDITIONS
Foul weather is not a hinderance. It’s an invitation to push the limits and fulfill your obsession. Wool has long held pride of place as a natural fibre for cold-weather use. But what makes it especially effective when you’re on the river wading and fly fishing?

KEY QUALITIES OF WOOL INSULATION
Here are the standout properties that make wool (and wool-lofted insulation) particularly good for fishing in cool, damp, variable conditions:

Moisture‐management & comfort: Wool fibres naturally absorb some moisture while still retaining insulating value. That means when you’re wading into cold water, or when mist/rain creeps in, wool will behave more forgivingly than many synthetic fibres in terms of clamminess. Simms states that “wool’s natural properties provide resilience and comfort across a wide range of temperatures and humidity.”
Temperature regulation: Not only does wool keep you warm when it’s cold, it also helps moderate when temperatures fluctuate (say between early morning chill and midday sun on the water). This kind of versatility is important for fly anglers who might be stationary for a while, then suddenly sprint for the next drift.
Odour resistance: One lesser-talked benefit is that wool resists odours better than many synthetics. Simms specifically calls out “exceptional odor resistance” in their wool-insulated pieces. This is particularly useful on multi-day trips or when you’re wearing the gear a lot. For anglers who care about materials and sustainability, that’s an added bonus.
Durability and layering compatibility: Wool insulation (especially when lofted) works well as a mid-layer beneath outer shells, and can stand up to abrasion when properly paired with durable face fabrics. Simms pairs wool insulation with abrasion-resistant nylon shells and liners in its gear.

WHY IT MATTERS ON THE WATER
For fly fishing the conditions can be tough — cold mornings, wet wading, changing weather, long hours standing still, sudden casts, river breeze. Wool insulation helps address a number of those:

When you’re standing in a cold stream, your lower body loses heat fast (waders only help so much). A wool-insulated pant or vest traps that body heat and keeps you comfortable.
When you move upstream, hike along banks, or climb in/out of waders, your body warms up; wool’s regulation helps avoid the “too hot / too cold” swing.
On early morning or late evening sessions when the air is damp and chilly, wool’s performance in humid conditions (its “comfort across a wide range of humidity”) gives you confidence you won’t get chilled.
For multi-day or travel trips, the odour resistance means you might wear the gear multiple days without stinking—helpful when you’re in remote lodges or camps.

LAYERING STRATEGY

Base layer: moisture‐wicking next‐to‐skin layer (helping move sweat away)
Mid layer: wool-insulated piece (e.g., the Midstream wool jacket or vest)
Outer shell: waterproof/windproof shell (for rain, spray, wind on the water)
Using wool insulation as the mid layer means you stay warm when you’re less active (standing still, waiting for a take) but don’t overheat when you move or hike between spots.

WHEN TO CHOOSE WOOL INSULATION

Early spring/fall in fly fishing, when air and water temps are cool (e.g., 5-12 °C)
Damp days, or when you anticipate wading through cold water and want extra comfort
Multi-day trips, camp evenings, or travel where packing light and durability matter

FIT AND MOTION

Gear like the Midstream Pant uses articulated knees/gussets, integrated belts etc to ensure that even insulated gear doesn’t hamper casting, wading, or movement.
Make sure the wool-insulated mid-layer fits well under your shell and over your base layer, without bunching or restricting arm/shoulder movement when you cast.

CARE AND DURABILITY

Wool insulation needs proper care (check garment labels) but Simms seems to build these with durable outer fabrics (abrasion‐resistant nylon face fabrics, DWR finishes) to withstand rugged use.

After a day fishing, give your gear a chance to dry, and reduce compression of the lofted wool when storing—keeping loft is key to insulation performance.

VERSATILITY
Even if you start fishing when it’s cold, if midday warms up, a wool mid layer often works well for lunch breaks or kick-back camp wear. Simms highlights the dual purpose of its wool-insulated jacket for both morning river sessions and campfire evenings.

In short: wool insulation is an excellent choice for fly fishing in cool, damp, variable conditions. The natural moisture regulation, temperature comfort range, odour resistance and durability make it well-suited to anglers. When paired with the technical outer fabrics and smart design of Simms’ Midstream wool-insulated collection, you get a mid-layer system that lets you stay longer, fish harder, and enjoy the elements rather than fight them.

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