Ready for the Storm, Gill’s IN21J Coast Sport Jacket

Total Score: 8.25 - GREAT

Introduction: There is a storm brewing and more and more companies are now competing head to head in the foul weather gear segment. While there are a lot of choices there are two brands in particular that have really become aggressive targeting anglers in high end category, Gill and Simms. Both companies have their own unique approaches that stem from their roots. Simms built up a well deserved reputation as one of the preeminent manufacturers fly fishing waders and apparel and is popular among both enthusiasts and fishing guides that demand a lot from their gear. Gill on the other hand is well known for their professional sailing gear and has over 30 years of experience in the development of waterproof garments for sailing and ocean racing.

Ms. Casey checks out the Gill Coast Sport Jacket

Both companies have made a major push into the bass market over the last season and have designed garments that target both recreational and professional anglers. Hardcore bass anglers are a unique breed and a little, or even a lot, of rain is not likely going to deter them from keeping their lines in the water. The Gill IN21J jacket is designed to be a multitalented jacket that is good for inshore and coastal fishing as well as general boating use. This is the same jacket that Bassmaster Elite Series Pro Angler, Dean Rojas, uses when he fishes on the tour. We take a closer look at Dean’s preferred jacket and put it through the paces in a season long field test.

The Gill logos are proudly displayed on both the front and back of the Coast Sport jacket

Impressions: Last year we took a close look at the Gill IN10 Inshore Lite Jacket which proved to be an excellent lightweight water and wind resistant jacket for warmer conditions. This jacket was easy to pack and great for conditions where cold temperatures really were not a factor. The IN21J Coast Jacket picks up right above the IN10 jacket both in price and functionality.

The jacket features a peaked hood with volume adjustment

The Coast Jacket features very similar styling to the Inshore jacket but features a heavier construction making use of Gill’s 3-Dot laminated fabric versus the 2-Dot. Both materials are breathable but the 3-Dot is designed to be both more durable and offer even greater protection from the elements. Though slightly heavier and featuring more structure the Coast jacket still packs down very small and is loaded with pockets for storage. Everything in this jacket is one step above the more utilitarian Inshore jacket from the cuffs to the additional reflectives that line the jacket.

The jacket makes use of Gill's own 3-dot laminated fabric

Though the Coast Jacket is designed to address a greater range of foul weather conditions it still doesn’t feature much in terms of insulation and the inside of the garment is lined only with a breathable mesh beneath the initial layer of laminated fabric. The cut on this garment is relatively generous to facilitate easy layering should the situation require it, yet it does have a tapered cut for style. In addition to angling the Coast Jacket is intended for sailing and general boating so the garment is designed to offer free range of motion while providing both protection and comfort.

A storm guard covers the entire front zipper