MidCurrent Tested and Trusted: Orvis Pro LT Softshell Hoodie
Whether we want to admit it or not, every fly fisher out there is a sort of clothes horse, with a closet full of light-as-air sun shirts, blanket-heavy flannels, and a collection of shorts, sandals, hats, gloves, and more. We fish in the sun and the rain, in cold winds and warm breezes, and even in the snow, so having the right gear to stay comfortable on the water is often vital to our success.
Ever since I started fly fishing, I’ve been on the lookout for one particular piece of clothing: a layer that could cut down on my need to constantly shed or put on layers. I’ve wanted something that I could wear in the sun, rain, and snow, which would free up a bit of closet space. I went through a variety of different hoodies, shells, and jackets trying to find that perfect layer, but it wasn’t until I bought a Pro LT Softshell Hoodie that I really found what I was looking for.
The All-Season Hoodie
No matter the weather or conditions, the Orvis Pro LT Softshell Hoodie just seems to fit the bill. Made of a combination of polyester and spandex with a highly breathable, double-weave fabric that resists punctures, it just hits the sweet spot for an insulating layer that’s easily packable. While the DWR coating isn’t totally waterproof, it stands up to light drizzle and mist. This is the perfect hoodie for wearing all day, or for stuffing in a backpack (or even a sling pack) so it’s there when you need it.
The Pro LT Softshell Hoodie is available in solid colors and digital camo.
One of the things that has really made the Pro LT Softshell Hoodie stand out for me is that, while you can wear it as a hoodie, it also makes an excellent mid-layer for winter fishing. It’s adaptable and great for wearing beneath a jacket on a cold morning and then wearing alone when the afternoon warms up. In addition, with its ample stretch in both the double-weave body and nylon side panels, it’s a jacket for getting work done. It doesn’t hamper you in any way, so whether you’re casting, rowing, or hiking, the Pro LT Softshell Hoodie does its job, so you can do yours.
Comfortable and Stylish
Another thing that puts the Pro LT Softshell Hoodie above other angling-specific sweatshirts and jackets is that it’s comfortable. While a lot of other tactical-type hoodies are a bit stiff and make you feel like you’re wearing a canvas tent, the Orvis version is truly soft. You can fish in it all day and then not take off when you come home. When you want a layer that can both protect you from a cold breeze and still be comfortable for tying flies in a chilly basement, the Pro LT Softshell Hoodie gives you what you need when you need it.
Finally, it just looks cool. Available in both digital camo and solid colors and featuring a snug, non-baggy fit, the Pro LT Softshell Hoodie is one of those rare fishing garments that just makes you look and feel good when you’re wearing it. It’s perfect for both fishing and going out on the town when you get off the river.
The author prizes the hoodie’s comfort, stylish cut, and utility.
A Worthy Cost
I’ll be the first to admit that I usually blanch at the prices of Orvis clothing. It seems like every time I like one of their shirts or jackets, I feel like buying it is going to blow a big enough hole in my paycheck that it would have to catch the fish for me to make it worth it. However, with a retail price of $149.00, the Pro LT Softshell Hoodie is more than worth the price. It’s a piece of tactical clothing that will last through years of abuse and will always be there when you need that little layer extra to block out the chill and keep you on the water.
