BY MIKE STEVENS
SANTA ANA – Delivering precisely what hard-core anglers expect out of any AFTCO product, the new Drift Jacket is constructed to be comfortably worn under demanding fishing conditions, and it all comes in a lightweight, insulated, water-resistant and low-profile package.
A new member of AFTCO’s Fall Collection, the Drift Jacket features mini-ripstop material that sets the durability baseline and has a nylon coating that keeps the wind-chill at bay while keeping the heat in thanks to its internal Thermore classic 100 percent polyster fill. Rounding out the comfort details are zippered hand pockets and an internal cinch system that allows the AFTCO Drift’s fit to be customized to the wearer. A “hidden” internal pocket is an added bonus for keeping that cell phone safe but still handy when it’s time to snap a quick photo.
Saltwater anglers will appreciate how the Drift jacket feels unrestrictive and right at home at the rail, but it can also be kept at the ready in the pilothouse for a quick warm-up between stops or during a long run home.
Of course, the Eastern Sierra angler in me went straight to brainstorming on how this salt-first jacket can pull double duty in the mountains. For me, the AFTCO Drift is ideally suited for chilly October mornings on Crowley Lake, followed by a seamless transition into apres fish mode where it’s making a casual statement at the brewery or when the tin cup is being passed around the fire back at camp.
The AFTCO Drift is set to steal that role from the bulkier, “puffies” that have been trending out of favor and anglers, watermen and mountain junkies alike seek out higher-performing, mutli-tasking outerwear that comes in a more streamlined and stowable package.
For more info, visit AFTCO.com