Fly Fishing Layering & Fleece

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Layering Quick Picks Best All-Around: Simms Lightweight Baselayer Top - For anglers who want a reliable next-to-skin top that works from cool mornings to full winter layering. Lightweight, moisture-wicking performance makes it an easy foundation under fleece, insulation, and shells. Best for Cold Weather: Simms Heavyweight Baselayer Hoody - For late-season wading and wind-chilled boat days when you want extra warmth without going bulky. The micro-grid fleece build and face/neck coverage style add warmth and protection while still layering cleanly. Best Under-Wader Option: Simms Fleece Midlayer Bib - For cold river days when standard baselayer bottoms aren’t enough under waders. Bib coverage adds core warmth, and the under-wader fit keeps bulk and bunching down. Best for Boat & Storm Days: Simms Vapor Elite Bib - For anglers who spend time on cold, wet decks or in driving weather and want more protection than standard pants. Bib coverage helps seal out wind and spray, making it a strong outer-layer piece over your baselayers. How to Choose Layering Start with the job each layer does Base layer: Wicks sweat off your skin so you don’t get chilled when you slow down. This is the piece you’ll wear most often under waders. Midlayer: Adds insulation by trapping warm air. Fleece and grid-fleece are common because they breathe well and keep working when damp. Outer layer: Blocks wind and precipitation. On the water, this might be a wading jacket, rain shell, or a more protective bib system on a boat. Pick warmth by adjusting thickness, not by “doubling cotton” Action: Stay away from cotton next to skin, once it’s wet, it stays wet and you’ll feel colder fast. Use synthetics or wool-blend baselayers, then build warmth with fleece/insulation as needed. Best for: Anglers who fish all seasons will usually end up with a lightweight baselayer set plus a warmer “winter” option. Under-wader comfort comes down to fit and bulk Action: Under waders, prioritize tapered legs, smooth