Review: Guideloft Series – sustainable insulated clothing by Guideline

Guideloft - material, insulation & functions at a glance

Before we get into the individual items of clothing, it's worth taking a look at the common foundation of the series: the Guideloft material. Guideline uses synthetic insulation that has been specially developed for use on the water. The filling offers a very efficient warmth-to-weight ratio, insulates reliably even in damp conditions and remains pleasantly breathable.

All items in the Guideloft range are lightweight, highly compressible and offer a high degree of freedom of movement. This makes them perfect as an insulating layer under waders, but they work just as well as a stand-alone insulating layer in everyday life. We find the sustainability aspect particularly convincing: the Guideloft material is made from 100% recycled fibres - a clear plus point without compromising on performance or comfort.

The Guideloft trousers - cold water? No problem!

In our test, the Guideloft trousers were one of the main reasons why we were able to stay relaxed in the water and concentrate on fishing for several hours - even at temperatures just above freezing. In combination with a thin base layer, they provide the perfect insulation under the waders - which is exactly what they are made for.

The stretch cuffs at the bottom of the legs are a particularly positive feature. Even when the waders are pulled over them, the trousers stay neatly around the ankle and do not slip upwards.

Thanks to the close-fitting cut, the trousers do not crease, which effectively prevents potential pressure points in the wading shoe. The new, discreet quilting also ensures a modern look that is much more suitable for everyday use.

Further highlights of the trousers:

• Stretch waistband in the hip area for an optimum fit
• Small integrated belt for fastening
• Press stud and zip for easy on and off
• Top-facing slit pockets - also accessible through the waders
• Back pocket with zip for wallet or valuables

The trousers are lined with 40 gram Guideloft insulation - light, warm and ideal as a base layer on cold fishing days.

The Guideloft waistcoat - light, warm & extremely versatile

The Guideloft waistcoat is equipped with a 60-gram Guideloft filling and is therefore noticeably warmer than the trousers without being bulky. It can be rolled up small into the breast pocket and stowed away in the backpack to save space.

The gilet also impresses across the board in terms of functionality:

• Two side pockets with zips
• Inner chest pocket, ideal for a smartphone
• Adjustable elasticated straps at the hem for a perfect fit
• High-cut, lined collar as wind protection

A special detail is the integrated flap on the back. A magnet or carabiner can be easily attached here - perfect for taking the landing net with you even without a wading jacket.

The Guideloft jacket - for when it gets really cold or windy

The jacket is almost identical in construction to the gilet, but with the addition of sleeves and a lined hood. It is our first choice, especially in strong winds or low temperatures.

Here, too, we think so:

• The same well thought-out pocket layout as the waistcoat
• Adjustment options on the waistband for an optimum fit
• An integrated D-ring on the back for attaching the landing net

With its 60-gram Guideloft insulation, the jacket is pleasantly warm, yet remains light and flexible. The hood ensures that your head and ears are also protected in adverse conditions.

Our conclusion

All in all, the new Guideloft series is a really strong update for us. The new quilting is particularly impressive compared to the old model: it is not only visually more modern, but above all more efficient when it comes to thermal performance in relation to weight .

We also really like the choice of colours. The combinations look high-quality, modern and work well both on the water and in everyday life. Everything fits seamlessly into the Guideline look, but can still be combined perfectly with garments from other manufacturers.

Another big plus point: Guideloft items are not purely winter products. Thanks to their small pack size, they are ideal as a quick second layer and can therefore be used all year round - whether as a backup in your rucksack or as an additional warm layer when the weather changes.

What we particularly like is that the Guideloft material is made from 100% recycled fibres. Guideline has managed to combine sustainability, low weight and high thermal performance in one product.

Our verdict: functional, lightweight, versatile and visually appealing - a range that is a pleasure to wear on the water and in everyday life. We give it a big thumbs up.

Tight Lines and have fun with the Guidelineoft series from Guideline!