Gary’s daughter Amy models the TFG gear (Thanks Amy, that’s spared us some pain)

TFG SECOND SKIN THERMALS
Price: £ 29.99 for tops and the same price for trousers in all sizes from Medium to XXL

Test period : from October 03 to date

For years I have used the ‘old’ method of putting several layers of clothing on to keep warm in the winter and, let’s be honest, it does work. A pair of fleecy track suit bottoms, a tee shirt followed by another couple of layers, then finally a fleece, bib and brace and a three quarter length jacket keeps us warm in the most adverse of conditions. But let’s face it, it’s not very comfortable, or practical is it?


Aside from making you look like the Michelin man, your movement is restricted making fishing, attending to a call of nature and even moving, an ordeal and generally making you feel sluggish and loathe to move about.

Well last winter I decided to do something about it and boy am I glad I did. In autumn I bought a set of the new ‘Total Fishing Gear’ (TFG) second skin thermals and I have to say they have been a revelation.


Using just two layers of clothing (thermals and a pair of canvas trousers) for the legs and three layers (Thermals, shirt and fleece) for the upper body I have been out and about in the coldest of weather without feeling the slightest bit uncomfortable. To be fair when there has been a stiff wind, and/or rain I have also added a lightweight jacket and over trousers, also from the TFG range (which I will review at a later date) which again due to their design has no way restricted movement.

We are all aware of Matt and his image so it comes as no surprise that instead of the traditional thermals that leave you looking like something grandpa off the Beverly Hillbillies would wear for bed, it comes in jet black with white logos and several nice features.


A zipped roll neck keeps the draught out and I particularly like the thumb holes that when overlapped with gloves the usually exposed wrist areas are also fully protected.

The tops come in the following sizes: M (42), L (44), XL (47) XXL (48-54)
The trousers in sizes M (32-34), L (36-38), XL (40-42), XXL (44-50)

For more information visit the TFG website on www.totalfishinggear.co.uk

FISHINGmagic VERDICT

As I spent most of the winter boat fishing large reservoirs for pike and nights on the banks of the River Ribble in search of chub, I like to think I have tested the thermals in the most severe of conditions and can honestly say I have been unable to find a single fault in their design.

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